Do puppies need calcium supplementation?

Today we will discuss whether puppies need calcium supplementation. Many dog owners may think that since their puppies are so small and in the stage of growth and development, they must need calcium supplementation or else they will be shorter than others. Some large breed dog owners even continuously give their dogs calcium supplements in the form of tablets or powders.

Do dogs need calcium supplementation?

The majority of dogs do not suffer from calcium deficiency. Calcium deficiency is more likely to occur in dogs fed homemade diets, especially those that only eat meat. However, high-quality commercial dog foods usually have adequate calcium content and a proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.

What can happen if a dog receives too much calcium?

Too much calcium can cause kidney problems, urinary stones, bone and joint issues, and hip dysplasia. Have you heard of hip dysplasia caused by excessive calcium supplementation other than genetic factors?

Can calcium supplementation make a dog's ears stand upright?

Some people claim that calcium supplementation can make a dog's ears stand upright. However, dog ears are made of cartilage, and calcium will not deposit in this area or turn into bone. Therefore, calcium supplementation for ear uprightness is not reliable. Many commercial products claim that their calcium supplements can make ears stand upright. However, for breeds with naturally drooping ears, such as the Chinese Crested Dog, their ears will naturally sag down when they are 4 to 6 months old, which is normal and nothing to worry about.