Gummies are an enjoyable, nutrient-rich treat for dogs. Plus, these gelatin-based treats can easily be made at home with just a few simple ingredients.
However, if your dog has eaten gummies that contain the sweetener xylitol, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Even in small amounts, xylitol can be toxic to dogs; symptoms include weakness, vomiting and tremors.
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Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for your dog’s wellbeing. It aids the body in absorption of calcium, which is necessary for bones, muscle movement and nervous system function.
Regulating your dog’s Vitamin D intake through food alone is difficult, which is why vet-approved vitamin D supplements are recommended. A soft chew vitamin D supplement may be more appealing than pills for your pup than a daily pill dose of this essential nutrient.
If your dog consumes too much vitamin D, they may experience symptoms of vitamin D poisoning within a few hours. These include depression, weakness, vomiting and appetite loss as well as increased drinking/urination frequency, constipation and dehydration.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for your dog’s wellbeing. It aids DNA synthesis, energy production and amino acid breakdown – all while supporting a healthy nervous system and increasing red blood cell production. Additionally, this vital nutrient helps create DNA, create energy from food sources and break down proteins into amino acids for easier digestion.
Deficits in vitamin B12 levels may arise due to illness, hereditary factors, a diet lacking essential B-vitamins or minerals, or gut inflammation. When this occurs, the body has difficulty absording vitamin B12 across the intestinal wall into your bloodstream.
Vitamin D deficiencies can occur as the result of genetic disorders like intestinal cobalamin malabsorption in Border Collies, Giant Schnauzers, Australian Shepherds and Chinese Shar-Peis; it could also be an effect of gastrointestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and small bowel syndrome.
Glucose
Glucose is the primary energy source for your dog’s cells, so it’s essential to maintain their blood glucose levels at an ideal level. Giving your pup a quick burst of sugar not only recharges their batteries but also helps them regulate body temperature and activity level.
Insulin is a hormone produced by your dog’s pancreas to help regulate glucose levels in their blood. If they don’t produce enough of this essential hormone, your pup could develop diabetes.
Older dogs tend to have greater insulin resistance than younger ones and thus a harder time maintaining proper glucose levels. Other factors that can increase your pup’s risk for diabetes include obesity and pancreatitis.
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone formation and healthy teeth.
Calcium supplements come in tablet and chewable soft-chew form, usually with lactate, citrate, ascorbate, carbonate, gluconate or phosphate.
Moderation is key when taking these drugs; however, excessive amounts can have severe adverse reactions such as vomiting, constipation, weakness and changes in drinking or urinating habits.
Other potential issues include iron and vitamin D toxicity when consumed in large amounts. Vitamin D poisoning in particular can result in liver and kidney damage as well as secondary calcium poisoning that could lead to hypercalcemia.
Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the most essential minerals for your dog’s health. Not only does it support bone and muscle health, but magnesium also plays an integral role in heart health and mood regulation.
Thankfully, your dog can get all the Magnesium they need through pet-friendly supplements that provide a daily dose of this mineral. When selecting either a tablet or chew, make sure it’s specifically formulated for your pup and contains their optimal daily dose!
Magnesium may help your pet relax their muscles and promote sleep. This could be beneficial if your furry friend is struggling with stress or having difficulty falling asleep.
