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Canine Anemia: Developing a Nutrition Plan

Dogs > Diet and Nutrition > Canine Anemia: Developing a Nutrition Plan

also see Dog Anemia Symptoms

also see Blood-Loss Anemia Dogs

Canine anemia is a condition that dog's can get when they lose a lot of blood. Anemia strikes when the red blood cells aren't carrying enough oxygen to keep your dog energized. Severe flea infestations and ulcers can lead to anemia.

When symptoms of an underlying problem exist, such as cancer or an autoimmune disease, veterinary care is necessary. However, there are several things you can do at home to increase your dog's energy levels when he has mild anemia.

Food for Anemic Dogs

To quickly boost the amount of oxygen your dog's blood can carry, serve him foods with a lot of iron and B vitamins.

Avoid supermarket or generic foods for canine anemia. The nutrients in them are harder for dogs to absorb. Start your anemic dog's meal plan by incorporating the following healthy foods:

Cooked liver: 4 ounces for a large dog; 2 ounces for a smaller dog.
Good dog food full of iron.
Lean meats like ground beef and lamb.
Fish, nuts and vegetables.
Foods with Vitamin B9: Carrots, egg yolks, whole wheat, rye and pumpkin.
Green vegetables like beans and leafy produce: the chlorophyll reinforces healthier blood.
A well-balanced diet with quality pet food and fresh natural foods will benefit your dog's overall health and nutritional plan.

Added Treatments for Canine Anemia

A nutritional plan rich in protein and Vitamin B12 is essential for anemic dogs. A number of other supplements and minerals can help, too. Consider incorporating one of the following substances into your dog's food intake:

Geritol tables: give a Geritol supplement to enhance the blood with iron and B vitamins.
Vitamin C: crush and add to your dog's food to help his body absorb iron; give 500 mg a day or more according to his size.
Kelp powder: contains iodine and trace minerals good for dogs with anemia.
Nutritional yeast combined with B12.
Phosphorus pellets: helps treat the bleeding associated with canine anemia.
Sulphur tablets: good for dogs with fleas, worms, skin problems or poor immune systems.
Milk Thistle to enhance healthy hemoglobin levels.

Know the Iron-clad Facts

Iron is a strong component for a dog's nutritional plan when he's anemic. Iron is one of the building blocks of hemoglobin, which is the source of red blood cells. Dogs need approximately 35 mg of iron each daily to every pound of dried food they eat.

Canine anemia is also treated with herbs such as red clover, burdock root and nettle, which contain minerals and iron. Along with herbs, the following fresh foods are ideal in rounding out daily menu items for your dog.

Dietary sources for iron:

Liver: buy treats made out of liver.
Lean meats: select ground beef with a high percentage of lean beef.
Fish: serve premium dog food with fish or cooked fish in moderation like salmon or sardines.
Additional iron-heavy foods: incorporate whole grains, lima beans and chicken.

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