Keeping our furry friends at the peak of health is at the top of every dog owner’s list of priorities, but what about giving dogs vitamins and supplements? Of course, we humans know how important it is to take a multivitamin occasionally, especially in the winter when Vitamin D is scarce, and common colds are running rife, but should we be packing vitamins in our dog’s food? Is it even necessary?
Don’t panic! Here’s a complete guide on the best dog vitamins and supplements to make the most informed decisions regarding your dog’s health.
Are vitamins and supplements necessary?
The jury is still out on this one, even for humans! But, to decide whether vitamins and supplements are necessary, we must take a closer look at your dog’s diet and health. Vets and the FDA agree that dogs who eat processed dog food receive the appropriate balance of vitamins and minerals from their food alone; the only exception is dogs who eat homemade dog food.
Dogs who eat homemade food may need extra vitamins and supplements as their intake may not be as regulated as commercially available dog food.
So, it’s probably a good idea to get advice from your vet and see if your dog could benefit from a little supplement here or there.
What vitamins and supplements are beneficial?
Processed food isn’t perfect; like humans, dogs may eventually need a helping hand in their diets. For example, older dogs are likely to develop arthritis which causes decreased mobility and painful joints. Controlling a dog’s diet with arthritis is essential, as reduced mobility is likely to result in obesity, exacerbating your dog’s pain.
So, how can you ensure you’re supporting your dog’s diet while controlling it? Well, here are some of the best dog vitamins and supplements that can be beneficial:
- Glucosamine: Glucosamine is a super important amino sugar for those with arthritis, as it is a critical factor in maintaining healthy joints and repairing damaged cartilage. Around 20% of dogs will develop osteoarthritis, so preventative measures are recommended.
- Vitamin C and E – Vitamin C and E are antioxidants and are shown to help support your dog’s neurological function and even preserve their memory! Who knew dogs could lose their memory? No one wants their pup to forget who they are, so adding these to your dog’s diet is a great idea!
- L-theanine – is the main ingredient in most calming supplements for dogs and can be used for a variety of anxious conditions – though there are also many non-medicinal treatments you can try first if your dog is anxious.
Are vitamins and supplements safe?
The answer is a little more complicated than just “yes” or “no.” Again, it depends on your dog’s current diet. As we mentioned a little while ago, your dog should be receiving the appropriate amount of vitamins and minerals from processed dog food, so loading them up on vitamins and supplements while feeding them such a diet can be dangerous.
To make sure you are making the safest decision for you and your pet, always consult your vet before supplying your dog with any supplements, as they will be able to advise you on the safest dosage and if they need it.
So there you have it! Your complete guide to dog vitamins and supplements. Remember to always inform your vet of any changes to your dog’s lifestyle and make sure you do thorough research into any brand of vitamins because, after all, your pup deserves the best!
