Folic Acid for Dogs Explained: Top 6 Benefits + FAQs

When it comes to keeping your furry best friend healthy, you might not think about folic acid for dogs. But this vital nutrient plays a surprising role in their health and well-being. Also known as vitamin B9, this essential vitamin helps canine bodies work their best in all sorts of ways.

In this article, we'll explore the top six benefits of folic acid for your pet. Plus, we'll answer all your burning questions about its sources, dosages, and supplementation. Ready to start learning? Let's begin!

What Is Folic Acid and How Does It Work?

In a nutshell, folic acid is a form of vitamin B9. Another form you may have heard of is folate. Folate naturally exists in certain foods, while folic acid is usually in supplements and fortified products. These two forms are closely related and help with important things, such as DNA synthesis, cell production, and cell division in both humans and animals.

Folic acid supports dogs' overall health by aiding cell growth and repair. The essential vitamin also helps prevent birth defects in breeding dogs. Plus, it can boost their immunity against icky germs and harmful bacteria. On the whole, enough folic acid in your dog's diet can significantly improve their vitality and well-being.

Related Post: Do Dogs Need Vitamins? [Essential Vitamins for Dogs]

 

How Does Folic Acid Benefit Dogs?

 

Vital nutrients like folic acid can do wonders for our canine companions. We'll discuss each health benefit in more detail later, but here's a quick rundown for you:

1. Cell Growth and Repair
2. Strong Red Blood Cells
3. Proper Fetal Development
4. Healthy Immune System
5. May Support Heart Health
6. May Aid Cognitive Function

1. Cell Growth and Repair

Folic acid helps synthesize folate, which acts like tiny building blocks for cell production and maintenance. Proper cell growth and repair are especially important for puppies to grow strong and healthy. Also, the essential vitamin helps heal wounds and repair damaged tissues. This support ensures your adventurous pup can bounce back faster from cuts and scrapes.

2. Strong Red Blood Cells

When folic acid assists DNA synthesis and cell division, it also helps create healthy red blood cells. These cells are like tiny delivery trucks that carry oxygen throughout dogs' bodies. They help muscles work, brains think, and everything else function properly. Low folic acid levels can lead to folic acid deficiency anemia. This condition can then lead to fatigue, weakness, and overall poor health.

3. Proper Fetal Development

Breeding dogs need folic acid to support proper fetal growth and formation. Proper vitamin B9 intake during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects and ensure puppies are born healthy and strong. The essential vitamin helps tiny pups develop strong bones, organs, and everything else they need inside. Mommy dogs with healthy folic acid levels tend to have smoother pregnancies and healthier litters overall.

4. Healthy Immune System 

To help with immune response, folic acid promotes the production and proper function of white blood cells. These cells help fight off infections to keep your dog healthy. With enough folic acid, your pet's body can effectively ward off germs and harmful bacteria. Also, the vital nutrient helps immune cells repair and grow back quickly, so your dog's defenses are always ready for action.

5. May Support Heart Health

Folic acid can help regulate something called homocysteine in your pup's blood. What exactly is homocysteine? It's an amino acid produced when your dog eats meat. High homocysteine levels have been linked to an increased risk of heart problems.

Amazingly, folic acid helps convert homocysteine into methionine, an amino acid that is gentler on the heart. By keeping homocysteine levels in check, the essential nutrient helps protect your fur baby's heart and reduces the risk of heart disease.

6. May Aid Cognitive Function

Just like humans, canines' brains need special care as they age. Enough folic acid can help protect their brains from age-related cognitive decline, which can make them forgetful or confused. The essential vitamin might help dogs remember things better and learn new tricks more easily. It's like brain food that helps keep them sharp and happy well into their golden years.

Related Product: Holistapet Multivitamin Soft Chews for Dogs

Folic Acid for Dogs - Frequently Asked Questions

 

Folic acid may raise many questions for pet owners. But we're here to clear up any confusion and answer all your questions. We'll crack the code on folic acid deficiency, dosing, and supplementation. Worry not — we've got you covered with all the information you'll ever need.

What Is Folic Acid Deficiency in Dogs?

Folic acid deficiency or folate deficiency is something you wouldn't want to happen to your pet. Its signs and symptoms include:

• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Poor Growth
• Reduced Appetite
• Gastrointestinal Problems
• Anemia (in severe cases)

A few things can lead to folate deficiency in dogs. Maybe your dog's food isn't packed with the nutrients they need. Sometimes, dogs need more folic acid during pregnancy or illness. Also, malabsorption might be happening in their digestive tract. Certain medications and treatments can affect folic acid absorption in the body.

To fix folic acid deficiencies, vets usually recommend dietary changes. Treatment may also involve folic acid supplementation. Of course, regular check-ups are essential to monitor progress and prevent future folate deficiencies from happening.

How Do I Add More Folic Acid to My Dog’s Diet?

 

If your pet is dealing with folic acid deficiency, adding more folic acid and folate to your dog's diet is the way to go. You can do this through one or a combination of the following:

• Commercial Dog Foods. Many high-quality commercial dog foods contain essential vitamins, including folic acid. Check the label to ensure your chosen brand includes this key nutrient.
• Natural Sources. Foods like liver, leafy greens, and certain vegetables are rich in folate. Adding these to your dog's meals can boost their folate levels naturally.
• Folic Acid Supplements. A quality supplement is another way to increase your pup's vitamin B9 intake. These supplements come in tablet, liquid, powder, or dog treat options.

View Holistapet supplements for dogs here!

 

How Much Folic Acid Do Dogs Need?

The recommended folic acid dose for dogs depends on factors such as age, size, and health status. In general, most pups need about 0.018 mg of folic acid per kilogram of body weight daily. But pregnant pets, nursing dogs, and those with certain health conditions might need more. It's always best to consult your vet to determine the perfect dose for your furry friend.

Can Dogs Overdose on Folic Acid?

It rarely happens, but it's still possible for dogs to overdose on folic acid. An overdose happens when dogs get too much folic acid over an extended period. Symptoms can include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

To prevent an overdose, always follow the recommended dose for your pet. Keep an eye on your dog's folic acid intake, whether it's through foods or supplements, to make sure they don't get too much of the essential vitamin. If your pup shows an adverse reaction, bring them to the vet, stat.

Are There Any Potential Side Effects or Risk Factors?

While folic acid is generally safe for our canine friends, you should still keep in mind some potential side effects and risk factors. Some dogs may experience queasiness or stomach troubles when using folic acid supplements for the first time. But don't worry; these symptoms usually go away as your dog's system adjusts to the product.

Risk factors include dogs with certain medical conditions. They might be under specific medications or treatments that can interact with folic acid. For your pet's ultimate safety, consult your trusted vet. Doing so is especially important if your dog has existing health issues or is on some type of medication.

Final Thoughts - Folic Acid for Dogs

There is absolutely no doubt that folic acid should be part of your pup's wellness routine. This essential vitamin can significantly support your dog's health and well-being in all sorts of ways, from their cells to their brains and immunity.

Whether through natural sources, commercial dog foods, or supplements, ensuring your dog gets enough folic acid is paramount. Grab a bag of our quality supplement today and take a step toward better health for your furry best friend.

 

Want to continue learning? Find more dog nutrition blogs here.