In some cases, supplements can be a good thing for our furry friends.
For example, if there is a nutrient deficiency, they compensate for it.
Does that also apply to Folic Acid for Dogs? Let’s see if and how it can help your dog.
You will also find out what you need to pay particular attention to when using it.
What is folic acid and what is it needed for in dogs?
Folic acid is not an acid, but actually a vitamin from the vitamin B complex. Among other things, it helps dogs with cell renewal.
Furthermore, folic acid supports the dog in a natural way to break down sulphurous amino acids in the body.
Folic acid is also said to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system in dogs.
Last but not least, folic acid can be used in dog breeding. Let’s take a closer look at why folic acid is so diverse.
Already knew?
Every dog can produce a certain amount of folic acid itself – in the intestine. Responsible for this are microorganisms, which ultimately determine the amount of folic acid.
cell renewal
Every organism needs folic acid for cell renewal – including dogs. Vitamin B plays an important role in cell metabolism.
breakdown of amino acids
Sulphurous amino acids are healthy and important for the dog in certain amounts. However, if they are not metabolized properly, they are poisonous to four-legged friends.
They then find their way back into the bloodstream. Folic acid helps prevent such an excess.
Cardiovascular support
Folic acid helps dogs maintain healthy homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid found in every organism.
In excess, however, it is just as unhealthy as the sulfur-containing amino acids. Elevated levels can damage blood vessels.
That’s why the daily, right amount of folic acid in dogs is important – because it supports a healthy cardiovascular system.
breed
A bitch’s need for folic acid increases during pregnancy and lactation.
But folic acid can also be given to bitches to increase the chances of pregnancy.
Other positive effects in breeding include easier births for the bitch – and that usually for every litter she gives birth to.
Dosage: how much folic acid does my dog need each day and how can I make sure he’s getting enough?
The right amount of folic acid that a dog needs every day is included 4 mcg folic acid per kilogram of body weight.
To ensure that your dog gets this amount, you should check the composition of his dog food.
You can find out whether there is enough folic acid for your dog from the nutritional information on the food packaging.
If this is not the case, you can give your dog folic acid either in the form of tablets or through appropriate foods.
What are the symptoms of a folic acid deficiency?
Too little folic acid can lead to a folic acid deficiency in dogs. Symptoms include: Fatigue, dizziness and shortness of breath.
You can also recognize a folic acid deficiency in dogs by a worsened complexion, weight loss and a swollen tongue.
The culprit is often a poor quality diet or food that is not sufficiently enriched with the nutrients important for the dog.
Anemia can also be a reason why your dog suffers from a folic acid deficiency.
In which foods does folic acid occur naturally and how can I feed it to my dog?
Foods that contain folic acid include Egg yolk, beef liver, spinach leaves and broccoli.
Wheat germ also contains folic acid – and with 304 mcg per 100 grams it is actually the food with the highest proportion of the vitamin.
It is easy to incorporate the foods mentioned into your dog’s diet.
Among other things, a BARF diet based on raw meat, vegetables, fruit and dog superfoods is suitable here.
It is important that you comply with the correct daily requirement of folic acid for your dog. Because an oversaturation is just as harmful as a deficiency.
Of course you don’t have to barf right away if you don’t trust yourself. It is also possible to mix the foods mentioned with normal dog food.
However, it is important that the feed does not already cover the folic acid requirement.
Is folic acid also suitable for dogs suffering from certain diseases?
In fact, folic acid can have a beneficial effect on dogs that are under suffer from heart problems and diseases.
In addition, folic acid can help with existing anemia – i.e. anemia.
Furthermore, folic acid should be an optimal dietary supplement for dogs if the following diseases are present:
- Diseases of the pancreas (pancreatic insufficiency)
- Chronic bowel problems
Folic acid can also help to improve the appearance of the skin – and is therefore suitable for four-legged friends who suffer from skin diseases.
Have you ever given your dog folic acid? If yes, why and what was your experience? We look forward to reading these in the comments.