Just like their pet parents, some dogs may need a low-sodium diet. In fact, “Overall, dogs need relatively less sodium than we do,” says Dr. Jon Nauss, medical director at the Institute. Irvine Valley Veterinary Hospital Primary Care & Integrative Medicine in California.
What is low sodium dog food?
Many low-sodium dog foods are not specifically labeled “low sodium”. Nathan Elam, Ph.D., consultant nutritionist for Inline Nutrition and Nutrition Services AssociationHe advises on recipes to many pet food companies and defines a low sodium diet as “a diet with less than 1% added salt on a dry matter basis”.
These may include some limited-ingredient recipes, sensitive dog foods, heart-healthy dog foods, or foods that need to be refrigerated to maintain freshness. Salt is often used as a preservative in canned foods.
Nathan adds: “The most common added salt ingredient in pet diets is sodium chloride (NaCl) known as table salt (table salt) or sea salt. However, other salt components will include potassium chloride, magnesium chloride and some calcium chloride and copper chloride. And, because formulas often contain 1% salt (or less) on a dry matter basis, rarely does the total salt content listed on the label include a guarantee.”
You can often find low-sodium dog foods like a heart-healthy diet. Research and discuss options with your veterinarian. Here are just a few of the low sodium dog foods on the market:
Do all dog foods have sodium?
The sodium content of pet food is recommended by Association of Feed Control Officials of America (AAFCO). Therefore, pet food requires a minimal amount of sodium to be considered a complete and balanced diet. It is also considered a preservative.
Benefits of salt in dog food:
- Salt maintains fluid (blood) in the body.
- Sodium ions are needed for muscle contractions and electrical impulses.
- Salt prevents diseases like gout.
- Salt helps maintain normal blood pressure for the heart and kidneys.
“Sodium is the most abundant positive ion electrolyte in the extracellular fluid of the body. So it’s found in all parts of the body that help regulate fluid levels and the normal functioning of nerves, muscles and many other bodily functions,” explains Dr. .
“However, sometimes patients can have too much sodium, either due to an imbalance in activity in the body or overconsumption in the diet. Blood screening, conducted by your veterinarian, can help detect these imbalances and help determine the best management plan,” he adds.
Common health conditions that may require a low-sodium diet for dogs include:
- Heart disease
- hypertension
- Kidney disease
- Ascites (water retention in the abdomen)
High sodium snacks for dogs
Even if you’re feeding your dog a veterinarian-approved low-sodium diet, Dr. Nauss warns that pet parents inadvertently add salt to their dog’s diet by feeding them snacks, such as popcorn, chips, luncheon meats and cheese, he adds, “represent a significant amount of sodium for a dog. Instead, consider lower-sodium snacks like blueberries or applesauce.”
Pet food maker Holly Sher, owner of by Evanger Food for dogs and cats and against cereals pet food, advises that if your dog needs an ultra-low sodium diet, avoid recipes that include saltwater fish as they are often higher in sodium.
Before transitioning your dog to a low-sodium diet, consult with your veterinarian to find a food that will keep your dog excited during mealtimes.
