What are the dangers of calcium deficiency in dogs?

If the calcium supplement is insufficient in puppies, they may develop rib valgus, deformation of the wrist joints and elbow joints of the forelimbs, and small dogs are prone to "O" shaped legs. Large and medium-sized dogs can cause severe deformation of the forelimbs. If not detected in time and treated improperly, it may cause permanent paw splay or lameness.

2-3 months is the critical period for calcium supplementation

2-3 months of age is an important period for the formation of intervertebral discs in puppies. If there is a lack of calcium at this time, some dogs are susceptible to intervertebral disc disease (such as Pekingese dogs). , Shih Tzu, Pug, Poodle, etc.) will develop in adulthood, causing lifelong pain.

Calcium supplementation is required for teeth replacement at 4-6 months old

At 4-6 months old, the deciduous teeth in the mouth begin to fall out, and the permanent teeth begin to grow. If there is a lack of calcium at this time, the deciduous teeth will not fall out, the permanent teeth will grow slowly, the enamel layer is thin, and the structure is not strong, and it is easy to have double rows of teeth or uneven permanent teeth. These dogs are prone to diseases such as bad breath and gingivitis in adulthood, which directly affects their life span.

Dogs do not need special calcium supplements after they reach adulthood

After dogs enter adulthood, dogs fed dog food do not need separate calcium supplements. Because the growth and development of the dog's bones and other organs has basically stopped during this period, the demand for calcium is very small.

Student dogs and pregnant bitches need a lot of extra calcium

If they are stud dogs and pregnant and lactating bitches, they still need to supplement a lot of calcium, because semen, embryonic dogs and breast milk will cause a large amount of calcium to be lost from the body. If it cannot be replenished in time, the calcium in the body's calcium store will be used, causing osteoporosis. Postpartum lactating bitches may suffer from acute postpartum calcium deficiency due to low blood calcium concentration. The symptoms include twitching of the limbs, stiffness of the whole body, body temperature that can rise above 40°C, and even cause coma and death.

Dogs over 8 years old also need calcium supplements to protect their bones

When large dogs reach the age of 8, they enter their old age. Dogs in the old age suffer from calcium intake due to endocrine and other reasons. The amount decreases and the loss increases. At this time, small dogs should be fed senior dog food, otherwise they should be artificially supplemented with calcium while maintaining a certain amount of exercise. Otherwise, it will cause osteoporosis and increase the incidence of bone spurs and fractures.

How to supplement calcium for dogs

The method of supplementing calcium for dogs is not significantly different from that for humans. Generally speaking, calcium supplement products used by humans are equally suitable for dogs. In addition, drinking more milk or eating foods such as dairy products and cartilage on a daily basis, and reducing the intake of foods rich in vitamin A such as liver, are also conducive to calcium supplementation. If your dog has symptoms of calcium deficiency, medication may be needed. It is recommended that you choose calcium carbonate and calcium lactate, which are not too expensive, and inject vitamins at the same time.Vitamin D3, oral vitamin D2, vitamin D3 pills. Of course, if conditions permit, you can also choose some imported brands of pet calcium, because these products are more professional in comparison.

How much calcium should be given to dogs?

The specific amount of calcium supplement depends on the breed, size, age and calcium deficiency of the dog. It is best to go to the animal hospital to consult a professional Veterinarian's advice.