What Is Potassium Chloride In Dog Food? Vital Electrolyte Or Unwanted Mineral?

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Potassium chloride is a common ingredient in dog food.

It’s typically included as a source of dietary potassium and is sometimes used as a sodium substitute for dogs that need to limit their salt intake.

But you’re probably still wondering, what does potassium chloride do for dogs?

Does it help them or hurt them?

Keep reading to learn more about potassium chloride, why it’s in dog food, and how much your dog needs.

why is potassium chloride in my dog's food

What Is Potassium Chloride?

Potassium chloride is a compound made up of potassium and chlorine, both dietary micronutrients.

Together, these two elements also make up a naturally occurring mineral called sylvite.

On its own, potassium chloride is colorless and odorless.

It has been used since the 1800s to treat high blood pressure when taken orally.

Today, it’s used as an intravenous fluid for people with low blood pressure or who are dehydrated.

In addition to these uses, it’s also used as a salt substitute due to its similar taste profile.

Potassium in the form of potassium sorbate is also used as a preservative in processed foods.

Why Is Potassium Chloride in Dog Food

Why is potassium chloride added to dog food flavor electrolytes

Potassium chloride is added to dog food for two main reasons: for flavoring and to replenish electrolytes lost during exercise.

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association¹, some dogs may need more electrolytes than others.

So, it can be a useful addition to dog food, especially if your dog has trouble holding onto water or if they sweat a lot.

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Additionally, it adds a salty flavor that many dogs enjoy.

Is Potassium Chloride Good for Dogs?

Potassium chloride is generally considered safe for dogs.

However, there are instances when your dog might not get enough or have too much potassium in their diet, in which case it could cause medical issues.

According to the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior², potassium chloride, in regular doses, can lower blood pressure and act as a diuretic.

But when consumed in large quantities, potassium chloride can have the opposite effect and cause high blood pressure.

Ingesting too much may also cause heart arrhythmia or cardiac arrest.

Potassium Chloride Benefits for Dogs

Is potassium chloride safe dangerous for my pet dog

While potassium chloride is an essential nutrient, some potential benefits make it especially beneficial for dogs.

Don’t forget to learn about sodium selenite in dog food!

Helps Replenish Electrolytes

Potassium chloride is often added to dog food as a way to replenish electrolytes that are lost during exercise or hot weather.

Electrolytes are minerals that help regulate the body’s fluid balance, acid-base balance, and muscle function.

Reduces the Risk of Sodium-Induced Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia is a condition that can develop when there’s too little potassium in the blood.

It can cause a lethargy, muscle weakness, behavior that looks like drunkenness, and even death³.

Hypokalemia is typically caused by chronic kidney failures but it can be caused by a dietary imbalance where your dog doesn’t consume enough potassium.

Adds Flavor

Another reason potassium chloride is added to dog food is for flavoring.

Many dogs enjoy the salty taste, and it can help make kibble more palatable.

Aids in Digestion

Potassium chloride can help improve digestion by stimulating digestive juices and enzymes.

Reduces Inflammation

Potassium chloride has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with arthritis and other joint conditions.

Is Potassium Chloride Bad for Dogs?

Potassium chloride can be harmful in large doses, and additives in dog food should be used in moderation.

As discussed above, too much sodium chloride can cause high blood pressure and other health issues.

Always consult your veterinarian if you are worried about your dog’s health.

Sources of Potassium Chloride in Dog Food

Potassium chloride can be found naturally in many foods we and our pets eat, including meat, dairy products, fruits (particularly citrus fruits), vegetables (especially potatoes), nuts, whole grains, legumes, and seafood.

It can also be found in many processed foods as a supplement or flavoring agent.

How Much Potassium Chloride Do Dogs Need?

The amount of potassium chloride your dog needs will vary depending on their age, weight, health, and activity level.

According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials⁴, a minimum of 0.6% of your dog’s food should contain potassium, and 0.12% should contain chloride.

Potassium chloride supplies both.

Dog Foods with Potassium Chloride

Here are some examples of dog foods that contain potassium chloride as a supplement:

Acana Regionals Grasslands Dog Food

Regionals Grasslands dry dog food with added supplemental potassium chloride

This grain-free dog food from Acana is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives or flavors.

It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and skin. The potassium chloride comes from natural sources like green peas and potatoes.

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Wet Dog Food

Wellness CORE wet dog food to help your dog eat more potassium

This wet dog food from Wellness CORE is grain-free and made with high-quality ingredients like deboned turkey, chicken liver, and peas.

It’s also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and contains no artificial preservatives or flavors.

The potassium chloride comes from natural sources like potatoes.

Dog Foods without Potassium Chloride

If you’re looking for dog food that doesn’t contain added potassium chloride, here are a few examples:

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Adult Dog Food

Blue Wilderness great dry dog food without added potassium chloride

This dry dog food from Blue Buffalo is made with protein-rich, grain-free ingredients like chicken, turkey, and lamb.

It’s also a good source of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or flavors.

Merrick Classic Grain-Free Wet Dog Food

Merrick Classic wet dog food without added potassiumc hloride

This wet dog food from Merrick is made with grain-free ingredients like deboned chicken, chicken liver, and sweet potatoes.

It’s also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or flavors.

Final Thoughts

Potassium chloride is a mineral that’s essential for many bodily functions in dogs.

It can be found naturally in many foods or added to processed foods as a flavor enhancer or electrolyte supplement.

While it’s considered safe for dogs when consumed in moderation, ingesting too much can cause side effects like high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, and cardiac arrest.

Talk to your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog consuming too much potassium chloride.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Potassium Chloride Do for Dogs?

Potassium chloride is a mineral that’s essential for many bodily functions, including maintaining fluid balance, muscle function, and heart health.

What Are the Side Effects of Potassium Chloride for Dogs?

While potassium chloride is considered safe for dogs when consumed in moderation, ingesting too much can cause side effects like high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, and cardiac arrest.

It’s best to talk to your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your dog consuming too much potassium chloride.

What is Potassium Chloride in Dog Food?