The amount depends on body weight, please follow our dosage recommendation for the products that contain Calcium, which you will find on the product and on the packaging.
Calcium for dogs
Calcium is an essential micronutrient for the normal structure of your dog's bones and teeth – around 99% of the body's calcium is stored there. An adequate supply supports a stable musculoskeletal system, especially during growth, pregnancy or when feeding a home-prepared diet.
Calcium for strong teeth and bones
Calcium is an important micronutrient for strong teeth and bones. In fact, it is known that around 99 percent of the calcium found in the body is found in the teeth and bones, with the majority (90 percent) being found in the bone structure. However, it is important to note that calcium alone is not sufficient, as it is effective in conjunction with phosphate.
A look into the biological processes
Phosphate is also an important micronutrient, which, together with calcium, forms the hydroxyapatite crystals, which give the bone stability and serve as a storage location. The amount of calcium and phosphate varies depending on body weight and breed. The regulation of these two substances is mainly controlled by three hormones: parathyroid hormone, calcitriol and calcitonin.
Calcium - also for nerves and muscles
It does not do justice to the mineral calcium, it is " “only” reduced to dental and bone health. The micronutrient is always needed when muscles or nerves are activated, when cells divide or renew and when it comes to metabolism.
Although calcium occurs as a solid component in the organism, its supply is through food ensured. This in turn means that the body can only absorb the mineral through other substances. To do this, it needs a sufficient concentration of vitamin D3 and vitamin K2. Because these two substances are so-called carriers and regulators. They bring the calcium to where it is needed (vitamin D3) and ensure regulation (vitamin K2).
Calcium in food - not all of it gets there
Depending on the quality of the food, the age of the dog and its general condition, between 5 and 50 per cent of the calcium ingested with the food can be utilised by the organism in the intestine. In addition, an increased phytate content can hinder absorption in the intestine - for this reason, dogs that are mistakenly fed a diet containing grain in particular have an increased need for calcium.
Deficiency symptoms
Too little calcium can lead to weight loss, tartar and tooth loss, joint problems, lameness, muscle loss or slower growth in young dogs. Too little calcium also changes the pH value in the mouth, which in turn can promote plaque and ultimately tartar. We have also written an article about this: Removing tartar in dogs
The right dosage
Between 80 and 100 mg of calcium per kilogramme of body weight is required to avoid a calcium deficiency. Pregnant, nursing and older dogs have an increased calcium requirement, as do puppies and young dogs.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium
Calcium is a building block for bones and teeth and does not work acutely, but through a continuous supply.
As needed, especially during growth, pregnancy, old age or with a home-prepared ration. In the context of joints and bones also on a long-term basis.
Well tolerated when dosed according to need, an oversupply should be avoided.
For dogs with an increased calcium requirement.
Feel free to take a look at our large FAQ overview or write to us at service@dog-fit.com. You can reach us by phone on the Germany hotline 0800 790 790 9 or from abroad on +49 3221 322 210 0.
Our recommendation
How to provide your dog with calcium
The supply of calcium is a central component of dog health. The calcium level should not be lost sight of, especially if there is an increased requirement, in order to avoid pathological changes to the skeletal or dental structure. However, calcium also influences many other metabolic processes as well as the pH value in the mouth. If this is unbalanced, plaque can build up, which then hardens into tartar.
Our DOG FIT by PreThis® CARE senior contains a supplementary amount of calcium in addition to other important micronutrients for dogs. In addition, the mineral we use is based on a fully utilisable form with maximum bioavailability. For an all-round healthy dog, so that concentrated health can show itself on four paws.
Use the 5% new customer voucher with your first order: DOGFIT
Veterinary Expertise at the Heart of Our Team
Dr. Sibylle Ott, MD, veterinarian, plays a central role in our team at DOG FIT by PreThis®. As an experienced veterinarian with naturopathic expertise, she contributes significantly to the development of our products. Her experience and deep understanding of dogs' needs flow into many of the formulas we create. She is a valuable asset to our team and to the well-being of many dogs.
