How Much Chlorella can I Give My 50lb Dog?

The single-cell plant alga known as chlorella is full of vitamins, nutrients and proteins and is sometimes prescribed for dogs to help with arthritis and joint problems. It may also aid a dog's autoimmune system and boost its healing.

  1. Dosing

    • Chlorella comes in tablets or in powder form that can be mixed with a dog's food. The amount of the dose depends on the dog's weight and its tolerance for the supplement. A 50-pound dog should be given two to four tablets of 250 mgs each per day, depending on the severity of its arthritis and its tolerance for the chlorella. Start out with two tablets before increasing the dose to make sure the dog does not have an allergic reaction.

    Purchasing Chlorella

    • The supplement is readily available in pharmacies and health food stores. In addition, many pet shops carry it, as do Internet pet supply companies. Some veterinarians also stock chlorella. The supplement should be stored in a cool, dry place, giving it a two-year shelf life before it loses its potency.

    Geography

    • Though readily available throughout the U.S., most of the chlorella sold in the country is grown in Taiwan and Japan and processed into tablets and powders. The strength of the supplement can vary depending on how it was cultivated and processed; because of this, doses might have to be altered to benefit the dog and avoid reactions and allergies. A side effect is nausea and loose stools, indicating the dose should be cut back.