The 101 Guide to Supplements for Dogs

Nearly two-thirds of dog owners claim that they treat their dogs as if they were another member of the family.

Dogs tend to find a way into their family’s hearts as they grow and build memories together.

If you want to take care of your dog and give them the best life possible, you should focus on its health.

Continue reading to discover the best supplements for dogs to improve their health and happiness!

Multivitamins

Finding the best multivitamin supplements for dogs can make a large impact on their health.

Most dogs aren’t getting enough nutrients from their food and require a small boost in supplements. Multivitamins should be taken by dogs for the same reasons that humans do. These vitamins are packed with a variety of vitamins that support general health and body functioning.

Common minerals found in multivitamins are vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. Vitamin A helps with immune health and vision. The B vitamins found in this supplement offer even more health benefits. You can improve your dog’s metabolism, regulate energy, and improve immune responses with vitamin B.

The best part about multivitamin supplements is that they can be found in a variety of forms. The easiest way to administer them is by getting chews that can be directly given to your dog.

Multivitamins work as calcium supplements for dogs, and can even reduce anxiety from the B vitamins.

Probiotics

Probiotics are a common supplement given to dogs that need help with digestive issues and health regulation.

Probiotics are living organisms that improve good bacteria in the digestive system. They help break down the food your dog eats to ensure that they are getting as much of the nutrients as possible. Probiotics can also reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in your dog, which could be making them sick.

If you give your dog probiotics, you may notice that they are going to the bathroom more frequently and their stools will look healthier. This is especially noticeable in dogs who typically deal with digestive issues.

Always monitor the dose of probiotics that you give your dog. Adding too much to their diet can lead to diarrhea. Another thing to watch for is the expiration date, as probiotics have a short lifespan since they are living organisms.

Prebiotics

Much like probiotics, prebiotics for dogs is highly recommended.

Prebiotics come from plant fibers that act as food for the good bacteria in the gut. They help stimulate the growth of good bacteria, which will improve your dog’s overall health.

Another reason to add prebiotics to your dog’s diet is that it helps regulate the digestive tract and maintains regularity. This supplement aids in digestion because it helps the body absorb more nutrients from the food and vitamins that they take.

Prebiotics are considered to be a fiber supplement for dogs since they work in the digestive tract and get things moving regularly.

Glucosamine

If you are looking for joint supplements for dogs, glucosamine is a great place to start.

Glucosamine is naturally found in cartilage and helps cushion joints. Aging dogs that are dealing with arthritis could benefit from this supplement greatly. You can also administer this supplement to your dog as a preventative measure. If they are a breed that typically has joint problems that appear as they grow, glucosamine can help.

Some multivitamins include glucosamine, but if you want to give a full dose, you can find the supplement in powder or pill form. Keep in mind that this type of supplement is sugar-based and should not be given to dogs with diabetes or sugar regulation problems.

Another thing to watch out for when administered glucosamine is that it is derived from shellfish. If you are allergic to shellfish, have someone else give Fido the supplement or wear a pair of gloves.

Glucosamine can also improve recovery time and injuries, and surgery.

Antioxidants

One of the best supplements for dogs is antioxidants, which are easy to find.

Antioxidants help reduce free radicals in the body. These free radicals can impact your dog’s health and lead to sickness over time. Antioxidants will help get rid of excess toxins in your dog’s body and get them feeling better again.

If you have a malnourished, aging, or sick dog, add antioxidants to their diet. Antioxidants will help keep your dog’s immune system regulated and can also improve mental functioning.

Dogs that have skin or allergy problems can also benefit from taking this type of supplement. Especially when paired with colostrum. Always monitor the dose of antioxidants that you give your dog, as overdose is possible and can lead to a sick pup.

Omegas

Most people know how beneficial omega supplements are to their own health, but they can also improve your dog’s health!

Omega-3s are fatty acids that improve skin, fur, and heart health. They can also help improve cognitive function when given regularly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be naturally found in fish, oils, and leafy greens. You can give omegas to your dog through these foods, capsules, or in tincture form.

Omegas are highly recommended for dogs who need an extra boost in kidney functioning. They also reduce and control inflammation when arthritis or injuries act up.

Try These Supplements for Dogs

There are many different supplements for dogs that can improve their nutrition and health.

By utilizing this guide, you can determine what types of nutrients that your dog might be lacking. By giving your dogs the best supplements, you can help them live a longer and happier life while pushing away illness and disease.

Always do your research and buy quality products for your pup, as they are more effective and beneficial.

Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about keeping your dogs happy and healthy!