Ferrofood® for Dogs by Standard Process: Iron, Energy & Blood Health
When a dog feels run-down, tires easily, or struggles with low stamina, I often look closely at iron status and overall blood health. Iron plays a huge role in how oxygen moves through the body, and when levels are low, dogs can feel weak or sluggish. This is where Ferrofood® by Standard Process can be helpful.
I like Ferrofood because it uses whole food ingredients to support healthy blood production and energy, rather than relying only on isolated nutrients. It is designed to nourish the body systems involved in making healthy red blood cells and using oxygen efficiently.

What Is Ferrofood® by Standard Process?
Ferrofood® is a whole food iron supplement made by Standard Process, a company that has focused on food-based nutrition since 1929. The formula provides iron along with vitamin B12 and vitamin C, nutrients that work together to support normal blood production.
Iron helps form hemoglobin, which is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and nervous system health. Vitamin C improves iron absorption and provides antioxidant support.
This supplement is not meant to replace a complete diet. It is designed to support dogs who need extra nutritional help with blood health, energy, or recovery.
Why I Use Ferrofood® for Dogs
In practice, I see Ferrofood used most often when dogs need gentle, nutritional support for:
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Low energy or fatigue
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Mild anemia or low iron status
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Recovery after illness, surgery, or blood loss
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Increased nutrient demands, such as growth or reproduction
What makes Ferrofood different is that the iron comes with supporting tissues, enzymes, and cofactors from whole foods. This helps the body recognize and use the nutrients more efficiently.

Key Benefits of Ferrofood® for Dogs
Ferrofood supports multiple systems that work together to maintain healthy blood and energy.
Supports Healthy Blood Production
Iron and vitamin B12 are essential for normal red blood cell formation. Adequate red blood cells allow oxygen to reach muscles, organs, and tissues.
Helps Maintain Energy Levels
When oxygen delivery improves, dogs often show better stamina and vitality. This is especially noticeable in dogs that have been unusually tired or slow to recover after activity.
Supports Iron Absorption
Vitamin C is included to help the body absorb and utilize iron more effectively.
Provides Antioxidant Support
Vitamin C and food-based antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can increase during illness or physical stress.
Supports Enzyme Function
Iron plays a role in many enzyme systems involved in metabolism and cellular energy production.
Ingredients That Matter and Why They Are Included
Each capsule of Ferrofood® contains vitamin C (30 mg), vitamin B12 (1.7 mcg), iron (10 mg), and a proprietary whole food blend (227 mg).
The proprietary blend includes:
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Bovine liver, spleen, and adrenal tissues to support blood-building organs
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Veal bone and bovine bone as natural sources of minerals
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Porcine duodenum and stomach parenchyma to support digestion and nutrient absorption
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Defatted wheat germ and rice bran for enzyme and nutrient support
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Organic carrot, organic oat flour, and organic alfalfa juice powder for whole food nutrients
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Organic reishi and shiitake mushroom powders for antioxidant and immune support
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Licorice root to support stress response and immune balance
Additional ingredients include gelatin, organic camu camu, organic acerola, ferrous lactate, organic flaxseed oil, and magnesium citrate, all included to support absorption, stability, and nutrient delivery.

Health Concerns Ferrofood® May Help Support
Ferrofood is commonly used as nutritional support for several situations.
Anemia or Low Iron Status
Iron and vitamin B12 support hemoglobin production and red blood cell health, which is essential for oxygen delivery.
Low Energy or Poor Stamina
When oxygen transport improves, dogs often show better endurance and recovery.
Immune and Recovery Support
Healthy blood production supports immune response and healing, especially during recovery from illness or stress.
Reproductive and Growth Support
Iron and B vitamins are involved in hormone production and tissue development, which can be important during growth or breeding.
This supplement supports normal body function but does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
How Ferrofood® Works in the Body
Ferrofood provides iron in a form the body can recognize and use, supported by food-based cofactors. Vitamin C improves absorption, while vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and nervous system function.
Because the nutrients are delivered in a whole food matrix, they tend to be gentler on digestion and better utilized by the body compared to isolated iron alone.
Dosage and How to Give Ferrofood® to Dogs
In practice, dosing may vary based on dog size, health status, and reason for use. I often individualize dosing, especially for dogs with existing medical conditions. The general recommended dosage depends on the size of your dog.
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Dog Size
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Dosage
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Small Dogs 1-20lbs
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2 capsules daily
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Medium Dogs 21-50lbs
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3 capsules daily
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Large Dogs 51+ lbs
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4 capsules daily
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Capsules can be given whole or opened and mixed into food if needed.
Always talk with your veterinarian before starting iron supplementation, especially if your dog is already eating a diet high in iron.

Safety, Precautions, and Possible Side Effects
Ferrofood is generally well tolerated when used appropriately, but iron supplementation requires care.
Possible reactions may include mild digestive upset, such as loose stool, especially when first starting. Rarely, dogs may react to specific ingredients.
Iron overdose can be serious. Signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or dark stools.
To use Ferrofood safely:
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Keep the product out of reach of children and pets
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Follow dosing guidance carefully
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Do not combine with other iron supplements unless directed
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Stop use and contact your veterinarian if adverse symptoms occur
Iron-containing products should always be used thoughtfully and with professional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ferrofood® for dogs used for?
Ferrofood® is used to support healthy blood production, iron levels, and energy in dogs. It provides iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin C from whole food sources.
Can Ferrofood® help dogs with anemia?
Ferrofood can provide nutritional support for dogs with low iron or mild anemia, but anemia has many causes. Always work with your veterinarian to identify the underlying issue.
How long does it take to see results with Ferrofood®?
Some dogs show improved energy within a few weeks. Changes in blood values, when monitored, may take longer and depend on the individual dog.
Can Ferrofood® be used long term?
Long-term use should be guided by a veterinarian. Iron needs can change over time, and unnecessary supplementation should be avoided.
Is Ferrofood® safe for all dogs?
Most dogs tolerate Ferrofood well, but it may not be appropriate for dogs with certain conditions or those already receiving iron. Always consult your veterinarian before starting.
