Vitamin B12 for Dogs: Why Your Pet Needs It
Vitamin B12 for dogs is critical for promoting optimal canine nervous system function. It is also crucial for the development of red blood cells and the production of hydrochloric acid in dogs.
Every pet parent wants to do everything possible for their four-legged companion. Caring dog owners prioritize their pet’s needs, from taking them on walks and runs to finding them the best overnight care when travel requires them to be away.
Dogs’ dietary requirements are at the top of the list of worries for pet owners. And every dog deserves a nutritious and satisfying diet. Despite their best efforts, dogs can become nutrient deficient or get an ailment that causes them to be lacking in a nutrient.
A vitamin B12 shortage in a pet can cause lethargy, weakness in the legs, and a lack of appetite. This frequent deficit can be caused by low vitamin levels in the pet’s food or by a genetic issue that makes it difficult or impossible for the pet to absorb the vitamin via its regular diet.
Untreated vitamin b12 deficiency in dogs can lead to more significant complications, such as gastrointestinal disorders and weight loss. Whether the problem arises from low dietary levels or a hereditary ailment, a B12 vitamin supplement is a highly effective and easy remedy. Supplementing with B12 can also aid dogs with gastrointestinal problems or renal illness.
As a result, we have decided to examine the influences of vitamin B12 and the repercussions of its deficiency today.
Table of Contents
- What Is Vitamin B12?
- What Does Vitamin B12 Do For Dogs?
- What Kinds of Dog Food Products Have Vitamin B12?
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Dogs
- Hypercobalaminemia
- How Much Vitamin B12 Does My Dog Need?
- Are There Any Potential Side Effects?
- The Takeaway
- Nutrition Strength Vitamin B12 for Dogs
What Is Vitamin B12?
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is a cobalt-containing water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in metabolic reactions known as single carbon transfers. One of these methods is the transfer of functional units such as methyl groups (-CH3) onto or between physiologically relevant molecules. Cobalamin acts as a temporary transporter of the single carbon group in at least three enzymes that carry out these reactions.
Homocysteine is a cobalamin derivative produced by gut bacteria in humans. This type of B12 is part of the food intake for dogs. It has little effect on the neurological system and may be beneficial to dogs that are depressed, anxious, or have cognitive problems.
The form that is generally available in pet supplement form is cyanocobalamin. It is the most stable of the different forms of B12. Various enzyme activities in the body can convert it to other versions, such as Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin.
Check out our Nutrition Strength Vitamin B12 for Dogs here.
What Does Vitamin B12 Do For Dogs?
Vitamin B12 collaborates with folate in the creation of the building blocks for DNA and RNA. It is also essential for the maintenance of the integrity of the nervous system and the synthesis of molecules involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and the production of energy.
The heaviest molecule to be transmitted through the intestinal mucosa is the cobalt-containing B12 molecule, which occurs solely in the ileum. Unless tainted by bacteria, B12 is usually absent from plant and vegetable dietary sources.
In the stomach, B12 is linked to R-proteins. It must be released in the duodenum by calcium, proteases, and bicarbonate before it can be absorbed. Free B12 then binds to intrinsic factor (IF) and is transferred as a dimer across ileal cells. It is then transported to the liver in the circulation via transcobalamin-2 (TC-2). The liver is a rich store for B12 and releases it into the systemic circulation as needed.
The following are the most significant reactions in the body in which B12 is involved:
- conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA for usage in gluconeogenesis;
- transfer of a methyl group from N5-methyl tetrahydrofolate to homocysteine during methionine production. That is what happens under the influence of methylcobalamin synthase, resulting in tetrahydrofolate creation. Tetrahydrofolate is involved in the production of purine, pyrimidine, and nucleic acid.
According to various sources, humans may get little or no B12 from their diet. That is not the case in dogs. Dogs, like other mammals, get B12 naturally through their diets. It is actually in small amounts for dogs, but it is essential for their health.
The benefits of vit B12 for dogs are directly related to its principal functions. Here are some of the most important facts:
- It stimulates the appetite. Your dog’s appetite will improve since it will be getting more nutrients from its diet. The digestive enzymes will be acting correctly to maintain a healthy level of Vitamin B12 in your dog’s system.
- Boosts the health of the nervous system. Myelin, which covers and protects nerves, is produced by vitamin B12. Sufficient myelin protects the brain and spinal cord, as well as the nervous system’s overall health.
- Promotes a healthy gut. If there is a deficiency of Vitamin B12, the bacteria usually found in the gastrointestinal system is impaired. When testing finds low B12 in dogs, it often indicates a gastrointestinal disorder.
- Assists in the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is critical for the growth of red blood cells. If red blood cells do not form properly due to factors, such as low oxygen levels in the blood, symptoms such as weariness and weakness will be noticeable.
- Prevents disease. A sufficient supply of vitamin B12 provides all-around protection against various disorders, notably those involving the pancreas and the digestive system. Making sure your puppy is protected will keep organs like the pancreas disease-free.
- Boosts immunity. A healthy dog has a robust immune system. Because vitamin B12 is so crucial for general health, it helps maintain your dog in good form.
What Kinds of Dog Food Products Have Vitamin B12?
Some dog meals contain vitamin B12. Many others, on the other hand, feature none or very little. Such foods are:
- beef and beef liver;
- fish;
- poultry;
- eggs;
- milk;
- cheese;
- leafy green vegetables;
- cottage cheese;
- beef broth;
- chicken broth.
Your dog should take supplements to ensure that it obtains the required quantity of this crucial vitamin for its health and well-being. If you do not feed them meat or fish, offer a b12 supplement for dogs.
Be sure and check the nutrition label of any food your dog eats. That will help you determine whether or not there is a sufficient amount of B12 in the food for your pooch’s needs.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Dogs
We have seen how feeding your dog species-appropriate food rich in nutrients like vitamin B12 may improve his health and offer you the peace of mind you deserve. Peace of mind brings not only a healthy life but also a lovely bond between you and your canine companion.
But what if your dog’s diet lacks vitamin B12 or if your dog is unable to utilize the vitamin B12 in the diet? This vitamin is abundant in most dogs’ diets.
However, in a sick dog, such as one with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or pancreatic difficulties, one or more of these organs may be unable to function correctly, resulting in a shortfall.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a genetic condition that can affect Border Collies, Giant Schnauzers, Australian Shepherds, Chinese Shar-Peis, and Beagles.
Dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency cannot digest and absorb the nutritional advantages of food. That is due to a lack of digestive enzymes in the pancreas.
GI lymphoma, small bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease are some of the other disorders that can induce a shortage of Vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 is required for iron absorption in the body. Without iron, your dog’s immune system weakens, which, in turn, can lead to anemia.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency in dogs can include:
- Lassitude (tiredness). A dog suffering from B12 deficiency will exhibit indications of weariness, lethargy, or indifference. It may show a general lack of interest in anything around it. It is possible to overlook even food. Its coat may be drab and dry, with little luster. Although this vitamin stimulates the appetite, the dog may sleep more than usual. Its weight may decrease as a result of not eating enough.
- Weakness. If your dog is too weak to stand up, you should take it to the vet. A dog that is ill with B12 deficiency may have trouble standing or walking without support.
- Indigestion. A dog with B12 deficiency could have stomach pain, loose stools, or digestive problems such as diarrhea. It may vomit due to abdominal pain.
- Unusually light stools. Vitamin B12 deficiencies cause an increase in the absorption of calcium, which increases bone resorption by the body. Bones become resorbed due to low vitamin B12 levels, and unabsorbed calcium leads to loose stools.
- Loss of fur coat quality. Dogs with low vitamin B12 intake or an inadequate diet may lose their coat or develop bald patches on the top of their head, neck, and under their arms due to insufficient nutrition. Some dogs develop dry, thin, or coarse coats that may be dull in appearance.
- Poor sense of smell and vision. A dog with a B12 deficiency may have a poor sense of smell. That leads to it being unable to detect odors. In addition, the condition can cause the cornea to become cloudy or have a pinkish coloration. That is dangerous for dogs who hunt. The most common symptoms of low levels of B12 in dogs are loss of hair and weight loss.
- Negative behavior. Some dogs with B12 deficiency may show indications of aggression, such as excessive barking and fighting among their peers. Dogs may demonstrate aggression towards family members and other animals, such as cats and birds.
- Weight Loss. A deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body can cause increased weight loss and malnutrition in dogs. That is because the vitamin’s absorption rate lowers, resulting in less absorbed calcium from the diet.
- Vomiting. As a result of a lack of nutrients, your dog may have bouts of vomiting. That may be due to nausea or abdominal discomfort.
- Ear infections. Dogs with B12 deficiency may have a higher risk of secondary infection by increased inflammation in the ear, increased risk of surgery due to a secondary infection, and an impaired sense of smell. That makes it difficult for your dog to track prey and find its way through dangerous terrain with its sense of smell.
- Neurologic disorders. A B12 deficiency may affect the brain and other nervous tissues, leading to behavioral changes such as increased aggression.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is best to speak with your vet. Your vet can help you monitor how your dog’s B12 levels are doing. If a vitamin B12 deficiency has been detected, the vet may recommend a supplement. It is also possible that your dog may need to be placed on a holistic diet if their B12 levels are too low.
Hypercobalaminemia
Hypercobalaminemia is defined as a serum cobalamin concentration that is above the normal range. Hypercobalaminemia in domestic pets was once thought to be a harmless condition that could be disregarded.
However, recent data in people suggest that hypercobalaminemia is an underestimated finding that can reflect several serious underlying diseases such as solid neoplasms, hematological and other malignancies, and hepatic or renal diseases. Serum cobalamin concentrations in cats with hepatic and neoplastic disorders are abnormally high.
How Much Vitamin B12 Does My Dog Need?
As can be seen from the above, vitamin B12 has many health benefits for dogs. Your puppy will need both an adequate amount and proper absorption of this essential vitamin for healthy metabolic functioning and overall good health.
The recommended B12 dosage for dogs is 2.4 mcg per pound of body weight daily. This quantity will vary depending on the dog’s age, overall health, weight, and whether or not their diet is supplemented with B12 containing foods.
With this information in mind, you will want to make sure the vitamin supplements you are providing your canine friend are enough to keep them healthy. Keep in mind that all dogs are different, so some may need more supplementation than others. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining how much your dog need to get an accurate assessment on what is best for them.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects?
There are no side effects to providing your dog with an adequate amount of Vitamin B12. However, if your dog consumes too much, it may get diarrhea or other gastrointestinal problems. If this occurs, just lessen the amount of medication you are giving them.
Vitamin B12 is most effectively absorbed with a meal, which is why we recommend our vitamin b12 supplement for dogs be given with food.
There are two types of vitamin B12 supplements: oral and injectable. Oral Vitamin B12 supplements can be added to dog food or given on an empty stomach. Injectable Vitamin B12 is a liquid that must be mixed with a meal or other formula. You can use it when you suspect a deficiency in our dogs due to inflammatory bowel disease.
The Takeaway
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble substance critical for the normal functioning of the nervous system and blood cell formation. Vitamin B12 deficiency may result from anemia, intestinal malabsorption or a strict diet.
It is often overlooked and may cause several hematological, gastrointestinal, psychiatric and neurological manifestations. Megaloblastic anemia is an early hematological indicator. However, neurological symptoms can emerge even when no hematological abnormalities are present.
Vets should be alert to identify signs or symptoms of anemia or suspected vitamin deficiency in puppies at-risk, even in the absence of hematological symptoms or signs. The concentration of serum vitamin B12 is not sufficient for diagnosis, and the metabolites upstream should always be looked for.
When we find a vitamin B12 shortage, we should look into the source of the cobalamin deficiency. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin needed by your dog to have a healthy metabolism. Knowing how tremendous this vitamin is can help you keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Your puppy will love you for it.
Nutrition Strength Vitamin B12 for Dogs
Check out our Nutrition Strength Vitamin B12 for Dogs here.
Nutrition Strength’s Vitamin B12 for Dogs chewable supplement are tasty chewable tablets, made with methylcobalamin, which is the form of vitamin B12 that is active in the metabolism and is essential for a healthy neurological function, red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.
A natural way to support your dog’s well-being, our premium vitamin B12 supplement for dogs could benefit your four-legged friends by helping to:
- Support blood cell formation.
- Sustain generation of cellular energy.
- Regenerate injured nerves.
- Promote cognitive health.
- Maintain synthesis of DNA.
Our premium vitamin B12 for dogs chewable tablets are formulated to help ensure that your pet gets sufficient levels of methylcobalamin (the activated form of vitamin B12), which plays an essential part of various regulatory mechanisms, particularly in brain development, DNA synthesis and cellular energy production.
In addition to methylcobalamin, the naturally occurring form of vitamin B12, our B12 tablets supply folic acid and calcium. In combination with vitamin B12, folic acid may help to support your pet’s cardiovascular system and calcium, together with vitamin B12 supplements, promotes cognitive health and may alleviate vitamin B12 deficiency.
Image source: Wikimedia / Emery Way.