There are many reasons to give calcium supplements to dogs. The first is because they can provide critical benefits to pregnant or lactating dogs during the early stages of pregnancy, during whelping, and during and after birth. The second is because they can prevent c-sections by giving pregnant dogs an extra burst of energy during labor. But, how do you know which calcium supplement is right for your pup? Read on to discover the best calcium supplement for your dog.
Seaweed is a good source of calcium
A high-quality supplement containing 34% pure calcium is an excellent choice for your dog. Seaweed is a naturally abundant source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and boron. In addition to calcium, Seaweed contains magnesium, a necessary mineral for calcium absorption into the bones. These properties make the supplement more digestible and more readily utilized by dogs. The powder contains no added chemicals, so it’s easy to give your dog a high-quality dose of this natural supplement.
Animal Essentials Seaweed Calcium is a plant-based calcium supplement derived from the seabed of southwest Ireland. This particular region has some of the cleanest waters in the world, making it a safe and environmentally friendly supplement for your dog. You can also add a tablespoon to your dog’s dry food to boost its calcium intake. Regardless of your dog’s age or breed, seaweed is a great source of calcium supplements for dogs.
Lithothamnium is more than just calcium, though. It is a rich source of essential nutrients and absorbs rapidly, so it’s not a good choice for dogs with firm stools. This supplement is made from natural, calcified red seaweed that is harvested off the South West Coast of Ireland. Because the seaweed is grown in the purest waters on Earth, it is completely natural and AAFCO approved.
Coral and seaweed are both excellent sources of calcium, but they cannot balance the minerals in the diet. Coral calcium, for example, is not recommended for puppies and nursing dams. Similarly, seaweed calcium is not a good source of phosphorus. Since it is low in phosphorus and high in calcium, it’s difficult to mix it with anything other than very lean meat.
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UPCO Bone Meal is a single-ingredient calcium supplement
UPCO Bone Meal is formulated for both adult and puppy dogs. It is available in chewable tablets that your dog can chew. Each tablet contains about two grams of calcium and a little bit of phosphorous. You should give this supplement to your dog between two and four tablets per day. It also contains vitamins and minerals that are essential for the healthy development of your dog’s bones.
Aside from the vitamin and mineral content, calcium supplement for dogs may improve the health issues related to calcium deficiency. The calcium in this supplement is free of artificial additives and allergens. This supplement can also benefit pregnant and nursing dogs. In addition to strengthening your dog’s bones, it can also boost its heart and nerve function. So, it’s a win-win situation for you and your dog.
Unlike calcium pills, calcium supplements for dogs should be sourced from reliable brands. The most reliable brands are vet-approved, and the lot number should indicate that the company has passed rigorous quality control tests. For added safety, select only supplements that are made in the USA. Also, never give your dog a human calcium supplement, as these may contain potentially harmful ingredients. Only a veterinarian should prescribe this supplement for your dog.
Another single-ingredient calcium supplement for dogs is Animal Essentials Seaweed. This product is derived from seaweed, which is technically an alga and is not animal-derived. It’s easy to mix into your dog’s food and is suitable for most breeds. Add one teaspoon per pound of dog food. This supplement promotes proper bone development, teeth, and gums. Moreover, it helps maintain optimal calcium levels in older dogs.
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Rogue Pet Science products are an excellent source of calcium
Rogue Pet Science sources only the finest ingredients for its dog calcium supplements. Each of its products aims to improve your dog’s nutrition and gut health, as well as its skin and coat. This brand is a great source of calcium supplements for dogs, and its products have earned a high reputation among consumers. You can visit the website to see all of their products, including calcium supplements, and read customer reviews to make an informed decision.
In addition to calcium, your dog’s diet must include other essential nutrients. Calcium is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles, and helps blood vessels move blood. A dog can even be celiac if they consume calcium through food. A good calcium supplement for dogs is bone meal powder, and Rogue Pet Science’s Origins Canine 5-in-1 is an excellent source of calcium.
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Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract
Although there are few scientific studies supporting the use of vitamin D3 in dogs, it does appear to be beneficial for their health. In addition to increasing calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, these supplements are also effective for preventing osteosarcoma and prostate cancer, two conditions associated with decreased levels of this vitamin. However, the mechanism behind these beneficial effects remains largely unknown. Vitamin D is required for proper bone and soft tissue health, so dogs and cats that are deficient in it should be given vitamin D supplements.
However, while vitamin D is important for proper bone health, excess amounts of the vitamin may cause toxicity. A recent recall by Royal Canin Veterinary Diet recalled four varieties of canned dog food due to high levels of Vitamin D. While commercial diets are often considered complete and balanced, these diets may be missing some important nutrients. To avoid potential toxicity, dog owners should consider adding vitamin D3 supplements to their dogs’ diets.
The hydroxylase enzyme is responsible for the catabolism of vitamin D in the body. It is found in the proximal renal tubules and is expressed in keratinocytes and lymphocytes. This enzyme promotes hydroxylation of the side carbon chain of calcitriol. Afterward, the vitamin D-bound calcium enters the circulation, where it is transported to other parts of the body.
However, vitamin D deficiency in dogs has been associated with osteomalacia. This disease is often accompanied by rickets and decreased bone mineralization. Interestingly, dogs and cats have a higher tolerance for vitamin D than humans. Supplementation with calcitriol may lead to hypercalcemia and renal damage. It is important to detoxify excessive amounts of vitamin D in dogs early enough to avoid any permanent damage.
Too much calcium can cause calcification of the soft tissues of the fetus
While intestinal absorption of calcium in the fetus partially meets the fetal calcium requirements, inadequate dietary intake is associated with serious risks to the fetus, including restricted intrauterine growth and preeclampsia. Several trials have demonstrated the benefit of calcium supplementation in pregnant women. Regardless of whether the supplements are beneficial or harmful, it’s important to understand the risks of calcium intake during pregnancy before undergoing them.
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