Are you looking to learn more about Pyridoxine Hydrochloride in dog food?
Then you’re in the right place!
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride and which dog foods contain (or don’t contain!) this vitamin.
Related: What is Selenium Yeast in Dog Food?
What Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride?
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, commonly known as vitamin B6, is an organic compound that has been used as a vitamin supplement for both humans and dogs for decades1.
According to the National Institutes of Health, it’s commonly added to dog food because it can help ensure your dog has a balanced diet and is getting all of the vitamins and nutrients it needs.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is a vitamin B6 supplement that is found in both dog and human food.
It affects the nervous system, helps to produce red blood cells, and aids in the body’s ability to process protein.
Why Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride in Dog Food?
It’s a well-known fact that dogs are typically carnivores, but they need other nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and grains.
According to the FDA, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is an essential nutrient for dogs and must be included in their diet2.
It’s important for proper metabolism, reproduction, and nervous system function.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is used as a supplement because not all foods have an adequate supply of vitamins naturally.
Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Good for Dogs?
Yes!
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is an important supplement that can help your dog stay healthy and strong.
While it’s not necessary for every single meal, you should look for foods that contain it whenever possible so your pup can get the nutrients they need.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is considered safe for dogs when used as directed. It’s been used as a supplement for many years with few reported side effects.
Vitamin B6 is essential to dogs because it helps them metabolize proteins and fats, maintain normal nerve function, and regulate their immune system.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride supplements are used to treat dogs with vitamin B6 deficiencies or those who have had certain types of seizures, but they’re safe enough to be used in almost any dog’s diet.
Curious about another supplement found in dog food? Learn about Omega 3 fatty acids!
Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Bad for Dogs?
No, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is not bad for dogs.
Your dog needs vitamin B6 in its diet for its body to properly perform many tasks and functions3.
These include metabolism, hormone regulation, and the creation of red blood cells.
Vitamin B6 also helps your pup maintain a healthy nervous system and immune system.
This means that it can help your dog’s body fight off infections and diseases more effectively.
Sources of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride in Dog Food
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is found in both human and dog food.
It’s often added to dog food as a supplement because not all foods have an adequate supply of vitamins naturally.
Some good sources of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride in dog food include:
- Dog foods with meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient
- Dog foods that contain fruits and vegetables
- Grain-free dog foods
- Dog foods that contain probiotics or prebiotics
How Much Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Do Dogs Need?
Every dog is different and will need a different amount of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride in its diet.
Generally, most dogs do well when they get around 10-50 mg of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride per day, but this varies depending on their age, health, and size.
Talk to your vet to figure out how much vitamin B6 your dog needs each day.
We’ve listed some general guidelines below:
- Puppies will generally require more Pyridoxine Hydrochloride than full-grown dogs. The exception to this rule is active puppies who exercise frequently. They may need less than sedentary puppies.
- Small breeds typically need more Pyridoxine Hydrochloride than large breeds. This is because small dogs generally have faster metabolisms. The exception to this rule is active large breeds, who may need less Pyridoxine Hydrochloride than inactive large breeds.
Dog Foods with Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
If you’re looking for a dog food that contains Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog foods with Pyridoxine Hydrochloride below.
Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Adult Dry Dog Food
Complete Essentials dog food from Purina is made with real meat as the first ingredient.
It also contains fruits and vegetables for added nutrients, as well as probiotics and prebiotics to help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy.
This food is perfect for dogs of all ages, sizes, and activity levels.
Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Dog Food
This Wellness Complete Health dog food is made with all-natural ingredients and is free gluten and artificial additives. It contains barley instead of cheaper grains.
It contains probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals to keep your dog healthy and happy.
This food is suitable for dogs in all life stages.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Senior 7+ Dry Dog Food
This dog food from Hill’s Science Diet is made with real chicken and includes fruits and vegetables for added vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
It’s also fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine to help keep your dog’s joints healthy.
Dog Foods without Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
If you’re looking for dog food that doesn’t contain Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, we’ve also got you covered.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog foods without Pyridoxine Hydrochloride below.
Acana Wild Atlantic Dry Dog Food
This Acana dog food is made with fresh, all-natural ingredients, including wild-caught fish.
It’s free of grains, gluten, and potatoes and is rich in omega-3s and other essential nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
This Wellness Core dog food is made with all-natural ingredients and is grain-free, gluten-free, and potato-free.
It’s rich in protein and essential fatty acids and is perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
This Blue Buffalo Wilderness dog food is made with real meat and is grain-free and gluten-free.
It’s also free of artificial additives and is rich in essential nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Final Thoughts
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is one of many vitamins that you might find listed on the back of a bag of kibble, and it can help ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need.
It’s a form of vitamin B6, which plays an important role in brain development, and it’s also considered vital for the creation of red blood cells.
Frequency Asked Questions
Here are a few other common questions people ask.
What Does Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Do in Food?
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B complex.
It is important for metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is also essential for the absorption of other nutrients, including protein and minerals.
What Are the Side Effects of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride?
The most common side effect of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is gastrointestinal upset.
Other potential side effects include neurological problems, allergic reactions, and anemia.
According to the FDA, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Natural?
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is a synthetic vitamin.
It is made in a laboratory by combining pyridoxine and hydrochloric acid to create vitamin B6.