Magnesium chloride

Why does your dog need magnesium chloride?

Your dog needs a sufficient amount of magnesium every day to stay healthy and productive. The recommended daily dose is around 10 to 12 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Magnesium can be supplied through normal feeding, but also through natural sources such as soy, wheat bran, peanuts, pumpkin seeds or cottage cheese. However, some dogs may have an increased need for magnesium, for example due to stress, exertion, illness or old age. In these cases, it may be useful to administer a dietary supplement such as magnesium chloride.

Magnesium chloride has the advantage that it is well absorbed by the body and acts quickly. It can help your dog to cope better with stress, relax his nerves and muscles, improve his condition and perceptiveness and aid his digestion. It can also help with muscle cramps, tension, movement disorders, nervousness, excitability, weakness, fatigue or respiratory problems.

How do you dose magnesium chloride for your dog?

If you want to give your dog magnesium chloride, you should always follow the advice of your vet. The dosage depends on your dog's age, state of health and weight. A rule of thumb is that the daily requirement for magnesium is at least 0.3 percent of body weight. If you are aiming for an optimal supply, this value is closer to 0.4 percent of body weight. This means:

• Small dogs (under 9 kilograms): At least 45 to 80 milligrams
• Medium-sized dogs (between 10 and 22 kilograms): At least 84 to 200 milligrams
• Large dogs (22 kilograms and over): At least 200 to 285 milligrams

Important: For older dogs, the requirement should be reduced to 60 to 80 milligrams per kilogram of body weight.

You can buy magnesium chloride in powder or tablet form and add it to your dog's food or drinking water. Make sure that you do not exceed the specified amount, as an overdose can lead to diarrhea or vomiting. You should also introduce the food supplement slowly and observe your dog's reaction.

What side effects does magnesium chloride have for your dog?

Magnesium chloride is generally well tolerated by dogs and has few side effects. The most common side effect is mild diarrhea, which usually goes away on its own. However, if your dog is sensitive to magnesium or has a pre-existing condition, more severe symptoms may occur. These include

• vomiting
• loss of appetite
• lethargy
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• kidney problems
• drop in blood pressure

If you notice these symptoms in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately and stop giving magnesium chloride. You may need to adjust the dosage or choose a different preparation.