Vitamin deficiency in dogs: effects and how to prevent it
"Vitamin deficiency is for street dogs." Unfortunately wrong! Indeed, even your beloved four-legged friend at home can suffer from a vitamin deficiency. The causes for this are manifold. Allergies and intolerances, diets and the like often play a decisive role. Poor feed also leads to a long-term undersupply. Of course, only fast food is not healthy - this applies equally to our furry noses. Too many empty carbohydrates and flavour enhancers are somehow "schmackofatz", but not nutritious.
Even a supposedly normal, healthy diet leads to a poor vitamin supply in some dogs. This is not necessarily due to the food itself. As with us humans, not every dog is the same. Some dogs simply process their food differently than others, and this can lead to a correspondingly low supply. And then there is age, which can be a reason for a vitamin deficiency: Digestion becomes sluggish and the processing of the food is paralysed.
Recognising vitamin deficiency in dogs: "I don't feel well, mummy".
Sometimes it would be so nice if Bello, Linchen and Co. could just talk to us. But as this is not possible, you are in demand as a dog owner. If you always watch your dog carefully, you will quickly notice if something is wrong. A vitamin deficiency and a lack of trace elements can often be detected in coat and skin. Does your pet's skin flake? Is the coat less shiny or thinner? This could be due to an iron deficiency or too little vitamin B, for example. Your dog's mood also tells you a lot about his well-being. Many a four-legged friend is completely off the mark, looks exhausted, no longer feels like going for a walk or playing. Others have little appetite, but at the same time they excrete heaps of considerable size. And then there are the dogs that, due to malnutrition, tend to be totally restless, hardly sleep, etc. Dull eyes, coordination problems, a tendency to parasite infestation or an overproduction of earwax are also common deficiency symptoms. But: All these signs can speak for malnutrition, but they do not have to. So if you notice any symptoms in your dog, the first visit should always be to the vet.
Which vitamin can do what?
Every vitamin has its role in your dog's body. If it is missing, this can lead to problems. Vitamin A is responsible for bone growth, vision, skin, mucous membranes and the immune system in general. Vitamin D is also important for skin and bones. But your teeth and mind also benefit from an adequate supply. A sufficient supply of vitamin D is especially important for pregnant bitches. Vitamin E influences agility and fitness, prevents heart disease and problems of the musculoskeletal system. Vitamin K ensures good blood coagulation and healthy bone formation. Vitamin B is essential for strong nerves and a strong coat. Do you have a "Kotnascher" at home? Then this could be the first sign of a B vitamin deficiency! Some dogs try to replenish their reserves with the help of this unappetizing whim.
This is how you can prevent a vitamin deficiency in your dog
First of all you should bet on a high quality food. Pay close attention to the composition of dry or wet food. If you feed your dog barefoot or cook for him yourself, it makes sense to consult a nutrition expert. He or she will help you adjust your dog's diet to prevent vitamin deficiency in the first place. Especially with home-cooked food or B.A.R.F., the supply of high-quality additives is crucial. Just meat, vegetables and fruit plus a little oil is not enough. To ensure that your dog remains healthy in the long term, a nutritionist will recommend food supplements for your dog.
Is it cold and dark outside? Has your dog been sick for some time? Has he had a stressful period (e.g. a change of environment)? Then it may be a good idea to give your dog a vitamin supplement for a short time. We offer many high-quality vitamin preparations and trace elements. It's best to browse through our shop straight away!
