Calcium Supplements for Dogs [Support Your Dog's Good Bone Health]

Most kids growing up in America learn early on that drinking milk helps build strong bones, teeth, and muscles because dairy products contain high calcium levels. Just like people, dogs need calcium, and that's why calcium supplements for dogs are beneficial for strong bones, teeth, and muscles. Good calcium levels also support your pup's neurotransmitters, proper blood clotting, and heart health.

 

When dogs have low calcium levels in their blood, their body tries to make up for it by drawing it from their bones. This can lead to fragility and potential injury, so annual blood work at your vet is very important. If warranted, the vet may recommend a calcium supplement, and it's essential to understand how they can help your best friend. We're happy to provide the information you need, so please keep reading!

 

 

What Are Calcium Supplements for Dogs?

Calcium is an important mineral that all dogs need, and because their bodies can't produce it, calcium supplements help fill the void. Calcium supplements often include phosphorus because calcium and phosphorus complement each other to create strong bone density.

 

Oral calcium supplements are available in many forms, including:

 

• Wellness chews: Either soft-baked or crunchy hard chews, dogs love them as treats!
• Tinctures: Add a few drops to their food or water bowl, and you're good to go.
• Capsules: Perfect for consistent, no-fuss dosing.
• Powder form: Sprinkle a measured amount over their food, and you're done!

 

No matter which version is best for your dog with low blood calcium levels, giving them calcium is a simple, straightforward process.

 

 

 

How Much Calcium Do Dogs Require?

Every dog is different, and it's important to speak with your vet about how much total calcium to give your pet. Various formulas exist for calculating the calcium milligram dose based on your dog's weight and calorie burn rate.

 

Given all the variables, it's critical not to give your dog too much or too little calcium. That's why we recommend seeking the advice of a veterinarian who knows your dog's medical history and blood test data.

 

 

Does My Dog Need a Calcium Supplement?

If you have a puppy or a dog with a calcium deficiency, they may need a calcium supplement. Pregnant or nursing dogs may require additional calcium to support their parathyroid glands, which help regulate calcium levels in their blood. A vitamin D deficiency may also necessitate calcium supplementation as it helps a dog's body absorb calcium.

 

Is Calcium Already Part of Your Dog's Diet?

If you make your own dog food or purchase "raw" dog food, adequate calcium may not be included in the mix. A calcium supplement may be ideal for your pet if that's the case. As always, check with your vet!

 

If you feed your dog high-quality, commercial dog food that's accurately labeled as "complete and balanced," it may already include calcium and possibly phosphorus. If so, then calcium supplementation may not be needed. Be sure to check the label because if it includes calcium, you may not need additional supplementation.

 

As a responsible pet owner, it's critical to not have too much calcium in your dog's diet because it can cause health issues, including kidney failure. Another factor to consider is whether there's enough calcium carbonate in your tap (hard) water. This can be a factor in the total amount of calcium your dog consumes. Learning how too much or too little calcium level can affect your pooch is a health issue, so please, keep reading!

 

 

 

Are Calcium Supplements for Dogs Safe?

Calcium supplements are safe when you follow the recommended dosage for your dog or puppy. Again, before starting any calcium supplementation regimen, it's important to consult your vet. And while they are safe, like many nutritional supplements, it's essential to understand the importance of proper dosing.

 

Too Much Calcium

While adult dogs have a higher tolerance than puppies, too much calcium can lead to Hypercalcemia, which can cause joint or skeletal problems. Calcium overload can also lead to:

 

• Acute kidney disease or chronic renal failure
• Muscle tremors
• Rigor mortis, in severe cases

 

Not Enough Calcium

Calcium deficiency leads to Hypocalcemia which is low calcium levels in the blood, not in the bones. Hypocalcemia may also cause skeletal issues, including bone loss and rickets. It may also lead to:

 

• Muscle contraction & muscle twitching
• Joint or hip stiffness
• Appetite loss
• Overall weakness

  

 

How To Choose Calcium Supplements for Dogs?

When choosing a calcium supplement for your dog, there are many factors to consider. After all, you're purchasing an ingestible wellness product that's made to better your pup's health.

 

It's critical to consider the total calcium level, and with that in mind, you want to ensure:

 

• Consistent dosing to ensure your pup gets the correct amount every time.
• Natural ingredients that are high quality & teeming with additional wellness attributes.
• No artificial fillers, flavors, or other ingredients that are not good for your best friend.
• Ordering from a proven, reputable company that utilizes independent, third-party testing.

 

 

 

 

What Supplement Can I Give My Dog To Support Strong Bones?

There are many supplements available to help keep your dog's bones, teeth, and muscles strong and healthy. When choosing a calcium supplement, it's important they include a few key ingredients:

 

• Glucosamine
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
• Chondroitan Sulphate
• Omega -3
• Vitamins

 

 

Food High in Calcium for Dogs

Fortunately, many foods provide a wealth of calcium sources that can be part of your dog's food. If your hound doesn't like them raw, create your own homemade dog food or look for commercial food that includes some of these ingredients:

 

• Proteins: Anchovies, Beef, Bone meal, Eggshells, Sardines, Salmon, & Tuna
• Veggies: Beans, Beat Greens, Broccoli, Collard Greens, Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Turnip Greens
• Dairy: Cheese, Milk, & Yogurt

 

 Related Post: Lysine for Dogs: Supports Calcium Uptake

 

HolistaPet Has Calcium & More!

HolistaPet's Multivitamin Wellness Soft Chews For Dogs is an excellent choice for your dog's calcium needs. Each tasty, bacon-flavored soft chew consistently contains 20mg of calcium that supports strong bone growth. But we don't stop there!

 

To support your dog's overall health, we also include other important nutrients like:

 

• Glucosamine to support healthy joints & hips.
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a natural antioxidant that also addresses swelling issues.
• Vitamin blend for full-body health.
• Curcumin (found in Turmeric) is another ingredient that helps with swelling & discomfort.
• Salmon oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and is another excellent calcium source.
• Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that also helps swelling.
• ProbioSeb Duo is our proprietary probiotic blend with 500 million wellness CFUs.

 

 

Final Thoughts - Calcium Supplements for Dogs

Calcium supplements for dogs can eliminate calcium deficiencies in puppies and adult dogs, especially nursing moms. Calcium is a mineral that's important for strong, healthy bones, teeth, muscle tissue, and overall daily wellness. Dogs' bodies can't make calcium, so if your dog has low blood calcium levels, it'll be pulled from its bones, weakening them. That's why a calcium supplement can be so helpful for your dog's health.

 

Annual blood tests monitor how much calcium is in your dog's system, and the physical examination is a perfect time to ask your vet about any concerns. It's important to remember that low and high calcium levels can be unhealthy, so it's essential to find the correct amount for your pup. Ultimately, including calcium in their diet will keep your dog's teeth, bones, and muscles strong and healthy for years to come!

 

Continue reading: Vitamin C for Dogs: Benefits Explained