Carnitine is not a real amino acid, but because of a close structural similarity, it is normally classified with amino acids, and is also known as vitamin BT.

L-Carnitine is synthesized from the essential amino acids lysine and methionine, but enough vitamin B1 (thiamine) and B6 (pyridoxine) must be available. This is why dietary supplementation of carnitine may be beneficial in some circumstances. Carnitine is an essential component for the metabolism of fat. L-carnitine helps carry fatty acids into the mitochondria in cells so that they can convert these acids into energy.

1. Supplementation of carnitine is first indicated where the energy requirements of a dog need to be increased as carnitine stimulates the conversion of fats into energy. During competition, sledge dog racing, or any other circumstance with increased activity, supplementation of carnitine in the diet may be beneficial. This is why Husse Optimal Energi is supplemented with carnitine. The combination of a high dietary fat content together with carnitine guarantees an optimal energy supply to active dogs with increased energy requirements.

2. Another indicator for supplementing carnitine may be weight reduction in case of obesity. In obese dogs, the supplementation of carnitine stimulates oxidation of body fats. Of course, this can only be obtained in combination with a reduced food intake and with increased physical activity in order to increase the energy requirements of the dog.

3. There is a very high concentration of carnitine in the heart, which is not surprising. The heart relies on fatty acids for the fuel it needs to pump blood throughout your entire body. Many studies have shown that L-carnitine supplementation can help heart function more efficiently in dogs that have been diagnosed with heart disease.