Effective Calcium Supplements: Tips for Dogs' Health

One: Osteomalacia

When a dog lacks calcium, it can exhibit a condition known as osteomalacia, which manifests as weakness in the limbs. This is what we commonly refer to as "weakness in the limbs." The dog may struggle to walk with strength and find it difficult for its hind legs to support its entire body. In severe cases, the dog's gait may become altered.

Two: Arthritis

Dogs suffering from calcium deficiency may develop joint diseases, particularly in the elbows. This can make it very challenging for the dog to lie down, as it requires considerable effort.

Three: Poor Bone Development

Commonly, poor bone development is seen in large breeds, where even after reaching adulthood, they may still appear smaller than a mediumsized dog. Incomplete bone development means that even if the owner supplements calcium, the dog's physique may remain within this smaller range. Therefore, calcium deficiency can be a contributing factor to a dog's smaller size.

Enhancing Calcium Intake for Dogs

What Causes Calcium Deficiency in Dogs?

One: Poor Calcium Conversion in the Body

Even though dogs absorb calcium from their food, they may still experience calcium deficiency due to poor conversion mechanisms within their bodies, leading to calcium being excreted from the body.

Two: Feeding a Monotonous Diet

Longterm feeding of a single type of commercial dog food or homemade meals can result in an imbalanced intake of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, leading to calcium deficiency in dogs.

Now that we understand the causes of calcium deficiency in dogs, how should pet owners go about supplementing their dog's calcium needs?

First: If a dog's calcium deficiency is due to gastrointestinal issues or a lack of appetite, which affects its ability to absorb nutrients, it's advisable not to rush into calcium supplementation. Instead, focus on调理 the dog's gastrointestinal health. Pet owners might consider purchasing probiotics, such as Purina's probiotics, which can effectively improve the dog's digestive function.

Second: If the dog's absorption capacity is still good but the issue is with the body's poor calcium conversion, leading to calcium being excreted, pet owners can encourage the dog to get regular sunlight exposure to supplement vitamin D. Purina's vitamin D and calcium supplements can help facilitate the conversion and absorption of calcium. These can be purchased online.