Bulk Mineral Supplements for Canines

Like humans, canines require certain amounts of daily macrominerals, known as bulk minerals, for optimal health. These chemical elements---such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium---support bodily functions and most commercial dog food formulas include them. They are called bulk minerals to distinguish them from minerals needed only in trace amounts. Dogs most at risk of mineral deficiencies or imbalances are those fed homemade diets. Consult your veterinarian to ensure your homemade diet is providing enough.

  1. Calcium

    • Calcium, the most important of the bulk minerals, helps maintain healthy bones and teeth, aids blood clotting, assists the muscles in contracting and relaxing, and helps the body absorb vitamin B-12, according to the B-Naturals Newsletter. Dogs should ingest 900 mg of calcium carbonate per pound of food, but only if their entire diet is homemade. Commercial diets usually provide enough of this mineral. Also, calcium works with phosphorus but should be provided in a ratio of roughly 1.2:1, according to Pet Education.

    Magnesium

    • Magnesium helps the body use vitamins C and E, as well as calcium and phosphorus, and maintains proper nerve and muscle functioning. Mild magnesium deficiency has been linked to canine sleep disorders, hyperarousal and irritability, according to Shirley's Wellness Cafe. Since magnesium can be found in meats, fish and dairy products, canine deficiency of this mineral is rare even in homemade diets, according to the B-Naturals Newsletter. If a veterinarian determines that your dog has a magnesium deficiency, he may recommend magnesium chloride supplements.

    Phosphorus

    • Phosphorus works with calcium to maintain the canine skeletal system, and it also helps the body use and transport fat properly, according to the B-Naturals Newsletter. While commercial dog foods provide calcium and phosphorus in correct balance, the ratio needs careful attention in the diet of a dog fed homemade meals. Adult dogs need a ratio of 1.2 parts calcium for 1 part phosphorus, and supplements typically are not needed, as fish, meat and grains provide enough of this mineral.

    Potassium

    • Potassium helps the body maintain its fluid balance and supports the functioning of muscles, nerves and hormones. A dog deficient in potassium can suffer from muscle weakness and spasms, a rapid heartbeat or listlessness, according to B-Naturals Newsletter. Dogs fed homemade diets likely receive enough potassium from ingredients such as fish, poultry and meat.

    Combination Supplements

    • Since it can be tricky to supplement a homemade diet with individual minerals, many veterinarians recommend a vitamin and mineral complex that includes all the minerals your dog might need in the proper amounts. Consult your vet about these combination supplements if you are making all your dog's meals at home.