When it comes to your dog’s health, you probably think about protein, fat, and maybe carbs. But what about minerals like copper and magnesium? These trace elements may be tiny in quantity, but they play massive roles in keeping your dog’s body functioning properly. From energy production to bone development and coat colour, here’s what the research says about copper, magnesium, and other essential minerals for dogs — and why a complete, balanced diet is key.Copper: Tiny but Mighty for Blood, Coat, and Immunity
Copper: The Mighty Element
Copper is a trace mineral, meaning dogs need only a small amount — but without it, several critical systems begin to fail.
1. Red Blood Cell Formation and Iron Use
Copper is essential for the proper utilisation of iron. Without copper, dogs can become anaemic, even if they’re getting enough iron. According to the National Research Council (NRC), copper helps in the synthesis of haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component in blood.
“Copper deficiency can lead to hypochromic microcytic anaemia, as it impairs iron metabolism,” notes Dr Ellen Kienzle, Professor of Animal Nutrition at LMU Munich (Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 2019).
2. Coat Colour and Skin Health
Copper is involved in melanin synthesis — the pigment that gives your dog their skin and coat colour. Low levels can lead to depigmentation or a faded coat, particularly in darker-coloured breeds.
3. Antioxidant Defence and Immunity
Copper is a co-factor for the enzyme superoxide dismutase, which helps neutralise free radicals. This protects cells and supports immune health.
4. Risks of Too Much Copper
Some dogs, such as Bedlington Terriers and Labradors, are genetically prone to copper storage disease, a condition that causes copper to build up in the liver.
“We’re seeing more cases of copper-associated hepatopathy due to over-supplementation in some commercial diets,” warns Dr Sharon Center, Professor of Internal Medicine at Cornell University (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2021).
Magnesium: The Muscle and Nerve Regulator
Magnesium is an often-overlooked mineral that plays a role in over 300 enzyme systems in the body. It’s especially important for muscle control, nerve function, and bone strength.
1. Muscle and Nerve Function
Magnesium works alongside calcium and potassium to regulate muscle contraction and nerve signalling. Without it, dogs can suffer from muscle tremors, weakness, or even seizures.
“Magnesium deficiency in dogs may present as neuromuscular irritability, cardiac arrhythmias, and generalised weakness,” says Dr Donald Strombeck in Home-Prepared Dog and Cat Diets.
2. Bone Development
Magnesium contributes to bone density and structure, playing a key role in skeletal development alongside calcium and phosphorus.
3. Energy Metabolism
Magnesium supports ATP production — essentially the fuel for every cell in the body. Dogs deficient in magnesium may have low energy, poor appetite, or muscle cramps.
Other Important Minerals for Dogs
While copper and magnesium are stars in their own right, other essential minerals include:
Zinc: Critical for immune function, wound healing, and coat condition. Deficiencies can cause crusting skin and hair loss.
Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth. Too much or too little can be dangerous, particularly in puppies.
Phosphorus: Works with calcium for bone formation. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is vital in growing dogs.
Iron: Needed for oxygen transport in blood. Iron deficiency can cause lethargy and pale gums.
Selenium: Helps protect against oxidative stress and supports thyroid function.
Getting the Balance Right
A complete and balanced dog food should already contain appropriate levels of these minerals according to FEDIAF (the European Pet Food Industry Federation) guidelines. However, supplementing without veterinary guidance can be risky.
“Home-prepared diets often miss the mark on trace mineral content. Even well-meaning owners can create imbalances,” cautions Dr Lisa Freeman, Veterinary Nutritionist at Tufts University.
Final Thoughts
Copper and magnesium may be ‘trace’ minerals, but their impact is anything but small. From blood health and coat colour to bone integrity and energy levels, these nutrients underpin your dog’s vitality. Ensuring your dog receives them in the right amounts — not too little, not too much — is key.
Always choose dog food from reputable sources that follow FEDIAF guidelines, and consult your vet before giving supplements.