Salt

What is salt?

Salt is a mineral consisting of sodium and chloride. It is found in nature, for example in seawater, rocks and plants. Salt is vital for all living things, as it fulfills many important tasks in the body. For example:

• It regulates the water balance and blood pressure
• It supports nerve and muscle function
• It promotes digestion and the absorption of nutrients
• It strengthens the immune system and wound healing

How much salt does a dog need?

Dogs need a certain amount of salt to stay healthy. The optimal amount of salt depends on various factors, such as the dog's age, weight, health and activity level.

A general recommendation is that a dog should consume around 10 to 20 milligrams of salt per kilogram of body weight per day. This corresponds to about half a teaspoon of salt for a dog weighing 20 kilograms.

How can I provide my dog with salt?

The best way to provide your dog with salt is through a balanced, natural and species-appropriate diet. If you feed your dog high-quality food that contains meat, vegetables, fruit and herbs, he will already get enough salt in his diet. So you don't need to add extra salt to their food or give them salty snacks. This also applies to dogs that are fed raw meat and bones. Here too, a varied diet is important to ensure a sufficient salt intake.

What are the benefits of salt for dogs?

Salt can have some positive effects for dogs if it is given in moderation. For example:

• It can stimulate appetite when the dog is sick or stressed
• It can increase fluid intake when the dog is dehydrated
• It can improve oral hygiene if the dog suffers from tartar or bad breath
• It can care for the skin and coat if the dog suffers from dandruff or itching

What are the disadvantages of salt for dogs?

Salt can also have some negative consequences for dogs if ingested in excessive quantities. For example:

• It can lead to salt poisoning , which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of salt poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, convulsions, lethargy, thirst, increased pulse and respiratory rate, fever, bleeding, coma and death.
• It can lead to kidney and heart problems that can become chronic. Too much salt can increase blood pressure, impair kidney function and lead to fluid retention in the body.
• It can lead to gastrointestinal problems, which can be acute or chronic. Too much salt can irritate the stomach lining, disrupt digestion, cause flatulence, diarrhea or constipation.

Which foods are salty and should be avoided?

There are some foods that have a high salt content and that you should not give your dog. These include, for example:

• Seasoned meats, such as sausage, ham, bacon or salami
• Chips, fries, pretzel sticks or other salty snacks
• Cheese, butter, cream or other dairy products
• Bread, cakes, cookies or other baked goods
• Ready meals, soups, sauces or other processed foods
• Salt licks or other mineral supplements

How can I tell if my dog has eaten too much salt?

If you suspect that your dog has eaten too much salt, you should look out for some signs that may indicate an overdose. These include, for example:

• Increased thirst and drinking
• Increased urge to urinate and increased urination
• Loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting
• Faintness, weakness or disorientation
• Tremors, cramps or seizures

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should see a vet immediately to treat possible salt poisoning. Depending on the severity, salt poisoning can be life-threatening and require intensive medical care.