Zinc is an important mineral and dogs also need it to be healthy.
With that being said, too much can actually be harmful.
Are you wondering if it makes sense to supplement?
Here’s the deal:
Under normal circumstances, keeping zinc levels in a normal range simply requires feeding a decent dog food. That should ensure your buddy gets sufficient amounts.
Sometimes Dogs Need Extra Zinc
Larger breeds in particular are prone to zinc deficiencies (more so than small dogs).
But be you must be very careful not to provide amounts that could be toxic.
It is worth repeating that zinc, and most other vitamin and mineral supplementation, is usually unnecessary when a healthy diet is being fed.
Still, there is cause for concern when this trace mineral is out of balance.
Interesting Fact: Dogs require much more zinc than humans do!
Natural Zinc Sources
Fresh meat is the best way to deliver zinc to your dog.
Fish is especially good in this regard!
Dogs do not store zinc. They need a steady supply of nutritious food to get enough of this must-have (antioxidant) mineral.
What to Watch For
Your dog may have the appearance of an unhealthy looking fur coat or skin if they lack zinc.
Diarrhea, lack of appetite, dermatitis and other digestive issues are also typical (yet serious) symptoms of insufficient zinc intake. They need to be addressed!
Of course, these signs could indicate another vitamin deficiency as well.
Factors to Consider
Several variables play a role in zinc dosage for dogs.
For one, there are different types of this essential mineral. Some are better absorbed than others.
Zinc citrate and Zinc methionine are recommended.
Avoid Zinc sulphate and Zinc oxide.
Another thing to think about is your dog’s DNA! Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes (breeds of northern decent) tend to need extra zinc due to a poor ability to absorb it.
A quality all-in-one K9 supplement that contains zinc makes sense.
Of course, talk with your vet about it first. And remember that toxicosis (while not so common) is a real risk.
How Much To Give?
This is a bit tricky. You can’t really know how much malabsorption of zinc is occurring.
More than half is likely not being absorbed (which is normal) but each dog is different.
The percentage lost could be much higher.
With this in mind…
A conservative dog dose formula is 1mg for every 2 pounds of body weight. Again, talk to a vet if you want to increase the amount.
Toxicity is Terrible
Don’t get carried away with a seemingly beneficial supplement when it comes to your dog’s health.
Make no mistake about it:
Excessive zinc may be hazardous to a precious pet pooch. It can even be fatal.
Often times it’s best to keep it simple and just feed your dog a balanced diet.
The Bottom Line
Most dogs don’t need zinc supplementation, but certain breeds may require extra.
While zinc is healthy, it can also be detrimental for the dog. Luckily most healthy hounds only need to consume meat for enough zinc.
Get a vet’s expert help for a suspected serious deficiency.
