![]() ![]() Defends the liver against oxidation from free radicals.Four other atypical cases - a Miniature Schnauzer, a Shih Tzu and two Labrador Retrievers - had normal taurine levels. 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 Saint Bernards most susceptible. Photography ©Silense | Getty Images.ĭCM 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. More about taurine for dogs and DCM Irish Wolfhounds, Dobermans, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Boxers and Saint Bernards are breeds that are most susceptible to DCM. 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 B-6. 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 the body, including the brain, heart, retina and muscles. I’d like to dive into the topic of taurine for dogs and why it’s important, as well as hopefully quell some of the confusion so that you can make calm, informed decisions as they relate to your dog’s health. ![]()
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