Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a popular supplement. However, it is naturally produced by a dog's body. In general, a dog does not require supplementation except under special circumstances.
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Production
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A healthy dog's liver produces Vitamin C. A healthy dog's liver produces Vitamin C at the rate of 18 mg per pound of body weight per day. Therefore, administering ascorbic acid in the form of a supplement may be redundant. Additional chemicals are produced as byproducts of Vitamin C production. When supplements are given, secondary chemicals are not produced in a dog's body.
Research
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Medical studies are based on the human body. Existing research on Vitamin C is based on medical studies of the human body. Canine benefit is assumed.
Considerations
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A dog's intetestinal tract may be irritated by Vitamin C. If too much Vitamin C is present, it may cause intestinal irritation. The tolerance level for a large dog is 3000 mg. Diarrhea and flatulence are immediate symptoms.
Indications
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Vitamin C should only be administered to target a specific problem, rather than routine supplementation. Cancer or infection are examples. Consult a veterinarian before administering supplements. Treat the vitamin as a medication, rather than a dietary supplement.
Dosage
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Dogs under the age of two receive a smaller dose. If Vitamin C is recommended, recommended dosage is 250 mg twice daily for dogs under the age of two. The dosage is doubled for dogs older than two.
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