Parathyroid hormone is completely different from thyroid hormone; The name is given because the parathyroid gland is located next to the thyroid gland. The parathyroid hormone is responsible for regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood. Hyperparathyroidism (too much parathyroid hormone) can also be caused by a tumor in one of the parathyroid glands (primary hyperparathyroidism) or by advanced kidney disease (secondary renal hyperparathyroidism). Dietary hyperparathyroidism secondary to diet is usually associated with a calcium deficiency, sometimes combined with a vitamin D deficiency.
When the body makes too much parathyroid hormone, it causes bone demineralization, which can lead to lameness, bone pain, swelling, stiffness or limping, reluctance to move, and even spontaneous fractures. Adult dogs may develop spinal deformities, loose teeth, or neurological symptoms. Puppies are more likely to develop abnormalities in their legs and joints that can prevent them from walking normally. If the condition is not resolved quickly, it can lead to long-term orthopedic disturbances.
Now that I’ve spooked your pants about the right amount of calcium for your dog food at home, at least I hope I do! – What type of calcium should be added and what is the exact amount?
When you don’t need to add calcium to your dog
Never add calcium to “full and balanced” commercial foods – they already contain the right amount of calcium! Adding calcium to a “complete and balanced” diet can be especially dangerous for large breed puppies.
However, most home foods require added calcium with a few exceptions. DO NOT add calcium to homemade foods if:
- Eat raw foods that contain raw meat bones (RMB) – portions such as chicken and turkey neck that have used up the entire bone. The bones are rich in calcium and phosphorus; There is no need to add calcium to foods that contain a minimum of 25 to 30 percent RMB.
- You are using supplements that are specially formulated to complement and balance homemade foods, such as those made by Balance IT and Just Food For Dogs.
- They use “dog staple food” blends, such as those from The Honest Kitchen and Sojo’s, which you combine with your own source of added protein according to the product directions.
When using supplements or base mixes that promise home nutrition, make sure the product contains a complete nutritional analysis that shows adequate amounts of calcium. Do not accept verbal statements made by company owners or agents, or staff at pet stores. If they are unable or unable to provide a complete nutritional analysis for their product, we will rely solely on regular diets for this product.
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