Calcifood® for Dogs by Standard Process: Bone Support, Use & Safety

As a holistic veterinarian, I pay close attention to bone health. Strong bones support movement, protect organs, and help dogs stay active as they age. That is why I often talk with pet parents about calcium and how to provide it in a form the body can actually use.

Calcifood by Standard Process is one of the options I reach for when a dog needs nutritional support for bones, teeth, and overall skeletal strength. Let me walk you through what it is, how it works, and when it may be helpful for your dog.

What Calcifood Is

Calcifood is a whole food calcium supplement. It comes in wafers and powder and is made from food-based ingredients rather than isolated minerals alone.

Calcium is essential, but it must be absorbed properly to be useful. Calcifood is designed to support calcium absorption while also providing phosphorus and supportive nutrients that bones need to stay strong.

I most often consider Calcifood for dogs who may not be getting enough usable calcium from food alone or who have higher demands due to age, growth, or recovery.

How Calcifood Supports Specific Health Needs

I consider Calcifood when supporting dogs with:

• Low dietary calcium intake

• Bone weakness or loss of bone density

• Recovery from fractures or orthopedic surgery

• Dental support when calcium intake is limited

• Senior dogs with declining skeletal strength

• Growing dogs that need balanced mineral support

Calcium and phosphorus work together to build bone. Providing one without the other can cause imbalance. Calcifood supplies both in appropriate amounts.

The whole food base also helps the body recognize and use these minerals more efficiently.

Choosing Wafers or Powder

Both forms support calcium absorption. The right choice depends on the dog.

Wafers

• Easy to give as a chew

• Can be crushed and mixed with food

• Lower calcium per serving than powder

Powder

• Higher calcium per serving

• Mixes easily into food or supplements

• Helpful when higher calcium support is needed

Dog Dosage Guidelines

These amounts are commonly used in practice. Individual needs may vary.

Calcifood Wafers

• Small dogs 1 to 20 lbs: 2 wafers daily

• Medium dogs 21 to 50 lbs: 3 wafers daily

• Large dogs 51+ lbs: 6 wafers daily

Calcifood Powder

• Small dogs 1 to 20 lbs: 1 teaspoon daily

• Medium dogs 21 to 50 lbs: 1 1/2 teaspoons daily

• Large dogs 51+ lbs: 3 teaspoons daily

Always start low and adjust slowly. If your dog has medical conditions or is on medication, guidance is important.

How to Give Calcifood

You can:

• Offer wafers as a chew

• Crush wafers and mix into food

• Sprinkle powder onto meals and stir well

Consistency matters more than timing. Giving it with meals is usually easiest.

Safety and Precautions

Calcifood is generally well tolerated. Still, a few points matter.

Too much calcium can lead to high blood calcium levels. Signs may include reduced appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, or lethargy.

Use caution if your dog:

• Has kidney disease

• Has a history of calcium stones

• Is pregnant or nursing

• Is already on a high-calcium diet

If digestive upset occurs, reduce the dose or stop and reassess.

Supplements support health. They do not replace a balanced diet or regular veterinary care.

Final Thoughts

Bone health is foundational. When calcium intake or absorption is not optimal, problems can show up quietly over time.

Calcifood offers a whole food approach to calcium support that fits well into a holistic plan. It supports strong bones while also nourishing the body systems that rely on calcium every day.

If you are unsure whether your dog needs calcium support or which form is appropriate, guidance makes a difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calcifood used for in dogs?
Calcifood is used to support calcium absorption, bone strength, and dental health when dietary intake may not be sufficient.

Is Calcifood safe for long-term use?
It can be used long term when dosed appropriately. Monitoring is important, especially in senior dogs or dogs with kidney concerns.

Can Calcifood be given with other supplements?
In many cases yes, but it should be evaluated alongside the full diet and supplement plan to avoid excess calcium.

Should puppies use Calcifood?
Puppies have specific calcium needs. Use only with guidance to avoid mineral imbalance during growth.

What if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Start with a lower dose and give with food. If digestive upset continues, stop and reassess.