Fantastic Folic Acid: Do Pregnant Dogs Need Folic Acid?

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, particularly during periods of rapid growth and development. While most people are familiar with folic acid’s importance for pregnant women to prevent birth defects, it is equally vital for pregnant dogs.  Did you know our UK Government actively supplement our food chain with Folic Acid? 

Because such a large proportion of our human pregnancies in the UK are unplanned, it is often months into the pregnancy before woman are aware - so miss out on the most important window for taking prenatal supplements.

That's why our government actively fortifies certain food products with folic acid to protect pregnancies and improve overall health outcomes, setting a precedent for the importance of this nutrient in both human and canine populations.

Why is Folic Acid good for pregnancy?

Folic acid is crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and the formation of red blood cells. It helps prevent anaemia and supports overall health. In pregnant animals, including dogs, folic acid is particularly significant because it directly impacts foetal development.

The UK government recognises the importance of folic acid in pregnancy and has mandated its fortification in specific foods to reduce the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) in human pregnancies. According to the National Health Service (NHS), folic acid supplementation is recommended for women who are trying to conceive and is imperative during the first trimester of pregnancy [1]. This proactive measure reflects the understanding that adequate folic acid levels are essential for healthy foetal development.

So, why do dogs need Folic Acid?

1. Preventing Cleft Palates & Neural Tube Defects: Research has shown that folic acid plays a pivotal role in the development of the neural tube in embryos. Neural tube defects are serious congenital abnormalities that can affect the brain and spinal cord. While most studies focus on humans, the principles apply to dogs as well. Supplementing with folic acid during early pregnancy can help mitigate the risk of such defects in canine foetuses [2][3].
2. Supporting Cellular Growth and Division: Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis and cell division, making it especially important during the early, rapid growth phases of pregnancy. In dogs, adequate folic acid levels can support the proper formation of organs and tissues in developing puppies [4]. A deficiency during this critical period can lead to improper cell division, potentially resulting in structural abnormalities.
3. Enhancing Mum's Health: Folic acid also plays a role in maintaining the overall health of the mother. It helps to reduce the risk of anaemia, which can be particularly concerning during pregnancy when the body requires more nutrients to support both the mother and her developing puppies. Anaemia can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other complications, impacting the mother's ability to care for her young [5].
4. Regulation of Homocysteine Levels: Elevated levels of homocysteine, an amino acid, during pregnancy can be associated with increased risks of developmental issues. Folic acid aids in the metabolism of homocysteine, helping to maintain its levels within a safe range. This regulation is crucial for the healthy development of the foetus and can prevent potential complications [6][7].​​

How much Folic Acid does my dog need?

Folic acid supplementation is essential for pregnant dogs, just as it is for humans. With its role in preventing neural tube defects and cleft palates, folic acid is a vital nutrient that should not be overlooked during canine pregnancies. As breeders and pet owners, it is essential to ensure that pregnant dogs receive adequate folic acid through diet or supplementation to promote healthy pregnancies and prevent complications.

Each dog will have a different Folic Acid nutrient requirement, this is predetermined by their breed risk and family history. Don't assume because you've "never heard of anyone have a cleft palate puppy" or you've been lucky until now, that your breed may not be at increased risk. A very common breed that sits at elevated risk (that always shocks people) is the Dachshund.

To find out how much your dog needs take a look at our product page (or click below)...

CNC FOLIC FORCE Folic Acid

£22.90 - £57.00

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Trusted support for every pregnancy.

FOLIC FORCE is a trusted choice for owners, as a vital part of any breeding plan - especially during the crucial early stages of pregnancy. It’s widely used to support healthy foetal development and is an essential go-to for responsible breeders to give developing puppies the best start.

Many breeds are at elevated risk of foetal developmental issues, look at our guidance table (bottom of page) to ensure you order the correct strength, and tailor your dog's feeding plan accordingly.

Complete the form below to add this to your basket and receive tailored guidance for your dog.

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For those of you who like to read further...

References:

1. National Health Service (NHS). Folic Acid. Link
2. B. R. et al. Neural tube defects and maternal folic acid supplementation: An overview. Journal of Pediatric Health Care. Link
3. W. J. et al. Folic Acid and Pregnancy: An Important Nutritional Factor. Veterinary Journal. Link
4. K. L. Folic Acid and its Role in Canine Nutrition. Canine Health and Nutrition. Link
5. D. A. The Role of Folic Acid in Maternal Health. Animal Reproductive Science. Link
6. R. T. et al. Homocysteine and pregnancy: Implications for the developing fetus. Journal of Reproductive Medicine. Link
7. L. M. The Importance of Folic Acid in Canine Pregnancy. Veterinary Nutrition Journal. Link

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