Why Should You Give Your Dog Supplements?
As pet parents, we want nothing but the best for our dogs; healthy meals, regular vet visits, and lots of love. But just like humans, dogs sometimes need a little extra support to thrive. That’s where supplements come in.
You might wonder: If my dog eats a balanced diet, do they really need supplements? The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as age, breed, health conditions, lifestyle, and even the quality of their food. Here’s why giving your dog supplements might be one of the best decisions you make for their long-term health.
As first time dog owners we have been doing the research so you don’t have to. Although, it is important to note that with the correct diet and food intake, the need for supplements will be reduced. Plus, giving a dog a supplement tablet might not be as easy as it sounds.
Support for Joint Health
As dogs age, or if they’re particularly active, joint health becomes a major concern. Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are commonly used to support cartilage health and reduce inflammation, helping dogs stay mobile and comfortable.
We know from experience that our dogs go to doggy daycare and are very active all day long. This means they are constantly using their joints, and that’s why it’s important to look after them and ensure that they are well maintained, so more fun can be had in the future.
Best for: Older dogs, large breeds, very active dogs, or dogs with arthritis.
Healthy Skin and Coat
Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or flaxseed oil) can do wonders for your dog’s skin and coat. They help reduce shedding, soothe dry skin, and give their fur a shiny, healthy appearance. Some dogs also benefit from supplements like biotin and zinc.
It is important to note that you don’t just have to tackle this with supplements, although they do help. With our dog, we give him sardines, mackerel and tuna that he loves, and we encourage this as his daily diet, and it works great for dogs with dry and itchy skin.
Best for: Dogs with itchy skin, dull coats, or allergies.
Improved Digestive Health
Probiotics and digestive enzymes can aid in nutrient absorption and maintain gut health. These are especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs, irregular bowel movements, or those recovering from antibiotic treatment.
It might also be wise to get an allergen test as this could shine some light on if your dog needs to avoid having certain foods, one big food is grain and some dogs are intolerant and it can manifest in different ways and symptoms that you may not notice.
Best for: Dogs with food sensitivities, chronic digestive issues, or a history of GI upset.
Immune System Boost
Supplements like antioxidants (vitamin C, E) and herbs (such as echinacea or turmeric) can help strengthen your dog’s immune system. These can be beneficial in managing inflammation and reducing the impact of environmental stressors.
This is also important if, like us, you send your dog to dog daycare. They are around other dogs all day, and just like humans, they can get sick, so an immune supplement may be a good way to combat this. We don’t know about you, but our dog milks it as much as he can when he’s unwell and expects all the fuss and treats we have.
Best for: Ageing dogs, dogs in stressful environments, or those prone to infections.
Heart and Brain Health
Taurine and L-carnitine support heart function, while DHA from fish oil is crucial for cognitive health, especially in older dogs. Some supplements target both cardiovascular and cognitive well-being, promoting longevity and quality of life.
We would suggest getting a Wisdom Panel kit; they work great and can point out any conditions that may be an issue in the future, not to mention they tell you so much about your dog at the same time.
Best for: Senior dogs or breeds predisposed to heart or cognitive conditions.
Filling Nutritional Gaps
Even high-quality commercial pet foods may lack certain micronutrients, especially after processing. Supplements can help fill those gaps and ensure your dog is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need.
This is really important if you have a fussy dog that doesn’t like a lot of food which may stop them from getting all the nutrients that they need.
Best for: Dogs on homemade diets or commercial foods that may not meet every nutritional requirement.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Always consult your vet. Before starting any supplement, talk to your veterinarian to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and health condition.
- Watch for quality. Choose supplements from reputable brands that use third-party testing and have clear ingredient labels.
- Avoid over-supplementing. Too much of a good thing can be harmful. Stick to recommended dosages.
- Power Supplements. If your dog is not a fan of taking tablets, then it might be worth looking at powdered supplements instead.
Supplements aren’t a magic bullet, but when used thoughtfully, they can significantly enhance your dog’s overall health and vitality. Whether you’re trying to ease your pup’s stiff joints, soothe skin issues, or give their immune system a boost, the right supplement can make a noticeable difference.
They do however help, give your dog the best go at life and help look after their health and if it’s one thing all us pet parents want, is for our dogs to be healthy and happy.