Pure Vitamin C for Dogs

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.

Production

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

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

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

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

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.