Supplements are products that maintain a nutritional balance, but should never be used as a replacement for a meal!
Here are some of the most vet-recommended supplements that can serve to improve your dog’s health. Let’s take a look!
1. Vitamins
If you think that only humans need vitamin supplementation, you are wrong. Dogs also need these crucial micronutrients to support their immune system, energy production, bone health, skin condition, and digestive health.
Dogs get most of the vitamins through a well-balanced diet. Even commercially bought food has a sufficient amount of vitamins. However, certain health conditions require additional supplementation.
For example, dogs need Vitamin A to support their immune function, vision, and skin. But this vitamin also helps in cell growth and reproduction like Vitamin E.
Vitamin D provides normal bone growth and regulates the levels of calcium and phosphorus. If your dog has a certain mobility issue, supplementation with Vitamin D, chondroitin, and glucosamine is a great combination.
Vitamin K has a significant role in the bone clotting process and prevents excessive bleeding and bruising.
The B-complex vitamins improve energy metabolism, nerve function, as well as the production of red blood cells.
And the human’s favorite – Vitamin C. This vitamin is not essential because dogs produce it naturally, but still has a big function. It prevents lethargy, joint pain, and weakened immunity.
Remember that dogs can eat various fruits and vegetables. So, you can include part of these vitamins naturally through food.
2. L-Carnitine
Dogs also produce this amino acid nutrient in the body. But, you can also find it in various commercial foods and supplements. L-carnitine is essential for fat and energy metabolism and helps in producing energy.
It improves the overall muscle function and also helps in the weight loss process. One very important function of this supplement is that it increases the good (HDL) cholesterol while reducing the bad (LDL) cholesterol.
This is a very important property of a supplement which can reduce the risk of heart diseases. Some breeds are prone to heart problems. This includes English Bulldogs, Pugs, German Shepherds, and Boxers.
Note: If you own some of these breeds, consult with a veterinarian to determine whether this supplement is good for your dog.
3. Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine is an amino sugar that naturally exists in the cartilage of the joints. Chondroitin is a complex carbohydrate that maintains the cartilage structure and prevents the breakdown.
Vets usually recommend a combination of these 2 supplements to support the dog’s joint health, especially for those dogs with mobility issues. Although these two compounds naturally occur in the body, they can also be added through various forms of supplements.
They maintain the function of the cartilage, help reduce pain, and improve mobility and overall joint function.
High-quality dog foods can improve the arthritic symptoms. Make sure that your dog gets sufficient amounts of omegas, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
A common health condition in dogs is a luxating patella. Some breeds are prone to this condition, and vets recommend glucosamine and chondroitin as an addition to the normal nutrition.
Note: We recommend these supplements for aging dogs and dogs with joint conditions. But also, active dogs that participate in various physical activities can benefit from them.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omegas are a group of essential and healthy fatty acids that improve the dog’s overall health. You can get this supplement in various forms, but the most recommended one is in the form of oil. You can simply sprinkle over your dog’s food. This way, your dog will get the recommended omega fatty acids.
This supplement has anti-inflammatory properties that can maintain a healthy skin and coat. But can also improve the joint function, heart health, cognitive performance, and much more.
By upgrading your dog’s menu with omegas, your dog can improve their cognitive abilities. Especially in cases of dog dementia, confusion, and anxiety. Studies say that omega-supplemented mothers have better cognitively developed puppies compared to unsupplemented mothers. Also, healthy fatty acids can improve the eye health of the future litter.
5. Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that improve the overall function of the digestive system. You can also find probiotics as “good bacteria”. They normally live in the digestive tract, but when dogs are sick or stressed, disbalance can occur. This means that the “bad bacteria” outnumber the “good bacteria”.
When disbalance occurs, dogs can experience stomach upset, diarrhea, bloating, and even vomiting. This supplement is a natural way to boost the immune system and restore the normal function of the gut.
According to a study, dogs that consume probiotics have improved stool consistency and well-formed stool. It also showed a reduction in the severity and duration of diarrhea.
This supplement can also help in weight management in animals by limiting fat and weight gain. However, remember that the weight loss journey is a long and demanding process. You need to set a goal, keep the dog active, but also limit their food.
Note: Consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog probiotics. There are different types of probiotics, and you need to determine the goal in order to get the right type.
Why Should You Consider Supplements for Your Dog?
Dogs need various nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. All these nutrients can address specific health concerns and improve the overall life quality of the dog.
Official data shows that around 31% of dog owners use supplements to improve the skin and joint health of their pets.
Whenever you are choosing a supplement for your dog, make sure you rely on trusted and vet-recommended options. Make sure that the product you pick is safe and scientifically effective.
