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Can dogs have Vitamin C Supplements?

can dogs have vitamin c supplementsCaution

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Dogs may tolerate vitamin C supplements formulated for humans, but there is still the risk of overconsumption. Too much intake can cause digestive issues in dogs. Some human vitamin C brands contain additives that can be harmful to dogs such as xylitol and artificial sweeteners.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Vitamin C supplements boost the immune system by producing antioxidants that prevent cell damage. They also aid with wound healing by assisting with cell growth and repair. They also promote healthy skin.
  • Vitamin C promotes healthy digestion by supporting enzyme functions that break down food into usable energy.
  • With its potent anti-inflammatory properties, vitamin C can help reduce inflammation in joints and relieve pain.
  • Vitamin C facilitates energy production, absorbs iron, and supports metabolic processes.

Risks

health-risks
  • In general, vitamin C is well-tolerated by dogs. However, it is easy to overconsume human vitamin C supplements because they have higher doses. Dogs and humans have different vitamin C requirements, and it is possible for a dosage that is safe for a human to be harmful to a dog.
  • Excessive intake of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain or diarrhea, as well as more serious medical conditions like bladder stones and urinary blockage.
  • Some vitamin C supplements formulated for humans may contain ingredients that may be harmful to dogs. For example, some supplements may contain artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Other additives such as food dye may not be suitable for dogs.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • It is not recommended to give human vitamin C supplements to dogs. The best way for dogs to get vitamin C is through their diet, which should include food that is rich in natural sources of this vitamin, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. If you are concerned about your dog's dietary intake of vitamin C, talk to your vet about adding a supplement specifically designed for canines into their meals. This will ensure that they get enough without overdoing it and potentially causing harm.

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