What dietary component is crucial for a dog's energy needs?

While proteins are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues, the primary source of energy for dogs primarily comes from fats and carbohydrates. Fats serve as a concentrated energy source, providing a high number of calories in a small volume, and are particularly important for meeting a dog’s energy requirements. Carbohydrates also contribute to energy through starches and sugars.

Although protein is necessary for various bodily functions, such as enzyme production and immune response, it is not the most efficient source of energy when compared to fats and carbohydrates. Therefore, a dog's energy is predominantly derived from dietary fats and carbohydrates rather than protein alone.