However, recently reported cases of DCM have risen and expanded to include other atypical breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and even mixed breeds, prompting public concern and an FDA investigation.įour of the atypical cases reported – three Golden Retrievers and one Labrador Retriever – presented with low whole blood levels of taurine. Genetics is considered the greatest risk factor, with large and giant breeds including Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Boxers, Irish Wolfhounds and St. Helps control diabetes and its complicationsĭCM in dogs is characterized by weakness of the heart muscle, leading to complications such as an enlarged heart and congestive heart failure, which can be fatal.Defends the liver against oxidation from free radicals.Taurine plays an important role in many biological and physiological processes, including producing bile salts necessary for fat digestion, regulating electrolytes in cells and balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. ![]() Meat, eggs and seafood are the richest sources of taurine. Cats and babies cannot manufacture taurine, so for them it is an essential amino acid that must be obtained strictly from the diet. Taurine is considered a non-essential amino acid for dogs and adult humans because our bodies can synthesize it from the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and cysteine in the presence of vitamin B6. Taurine is typically referred to as an amino acid, however it is not a traditional amino acid because it does not serve as a building block of protein, but rather is found abundantly in tissues and organs throughout, including the brain, heart, retina and muscles. Today, I’d like to dive into the topic of dogs and taurine and why it’s important, as well as hopefully quell some of the confusion so that you can make calm, informed decisions as it relates to your dog’s health. ![]() Some of these dogs also presented with low blood levels of taurine, a known cause of DCM in certain predisposed breeds, so it’s understandable that many people are concerned about dogs and taurine and the possible relationship between diet and taurine-deficiency DCM. Last year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its investigation into increased veterinary reports of the heart condition dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs consuming certain types of commercial diets. For more than a year, one word has dominated the canine nutrition world, creating confusion and concern among dog lovers.
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