The Best Supplements for Dogs
Millions of people worldwide take supplements every day to help them stay healthy. But what about other members of our families, like dogs?
Dogs need a supplement for different vitamins and minerals not found in their regular diet. Depending on your dog's breed, you might also need to give your pup a supplement to improve the health of their joints and hips.
If you think your dog needs a supplement but don't know which one to choose or what brands to trust, here are reviews for products that may suit your dog's nutrient needs.
Quick Picks: The Best Supplements for Dogs
The Best Supplements for Dogs
1. Zesty Paws 11-in-1 Multifunctional Bites
Zesty Paw is a brand that makes many different supplements for cats and dogs. Out of all their products, the Zesty Paws 11-in-1 Multifunctional Bites is one of the best supplements for dogs. These chews are packed with lots of good things for your pup.
These 11-in-one chews are better than the past 8-in-one easy-to-feed chews. They have more of what your dog needs to be healthy. The chews help your dog's immune system, digestive system, skin and coat health, and heart and organ health.
The chews have vitamins and nutrients necessary for a dog's health, like A, E, B, and C. They also have chondroitin and glucosamine to help the dog's comfort and mobility. Plus, folic acid and CoQ10 are included to support the heart. What's more, these chews are soft and chicken-flavored, so your dog will love them!
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2. Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength with MSM
Nutramax Maximum Strength with MSM Soft Chews is an excellent way to encourage health in small and toy breed dogs. These soft chews are easy for small dog breeds to eat because they are made small for their mouths.
They are also moist and tasty, acting as treats for your dogs instead of nasty vitamin pills. Most dogs like them, but if your pup has a health condition affecting their appetite, they might not be as interested in them.
These chews are designed to help your pup's joints stay healthy. They have a unique formula that includes glucosamine and chondroitin. These nutrients help keep your pup's joints and cartilage healthy.
These soft chews also contain omega-3s, which support your dog's healthy skin and coat. They are currently on lists as the number-one veterinarian-recommended brand for joint support for small dogs. Plus, these are the best supplements for dogs that you can find for the price.
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3. Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews
When you talk to your vet about supplements, you might consider Cosequin and Dasuquin. These soft chews are easy to feed to dogs of all sizes and weights.
Nutramax developed this Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews over ten years of research. It took all that research from its Cosequin joint health supplement to develop the Dasuquin formulation for dogs. Even though this formula is less expensive than other Dasuquin products, you get a lot for your money because it delivers effective joint support.
Dasuquin is a supplement that helps improve joint health. Glucosamine hydrochloride and low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate in NMX1000 ASU and decaffeinated tea increase cartilage matrix formation. This keeps joints healthy and functioning correctly.
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4. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Probiotic Support
These supplements for dogs help keep their gut health in good condition. If your dog has trouble with its stomach, this probiotic supplement can help them balance its digestive system.
Veterinary Supplements Purina Pro Plan Probiotics Dog Supplement aids dogs with diarrhea by giving them powder specifically developed for the intestinal microorganisms in their stomachs.
Experts worked to identify the perfect amounts of powder-forming nutrients for live microorganisms. This supplement is good for most dogs, but getting your pup to eat it can be harder unless mixed with wet dog food. Whether you have small, medium, or large breed dogs, you can use this powder.
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5. PetHonesty Allergy Support Immunity Strength Supplement
Many dogs are starting to get allergies. This is a problem because their allergies make it hard for them to breathe, and they can't stop scratching themselves. You can help your dog by getting them a supplement to help with their allergies.
These chews from PetHonesty Allergy Support Immunity Strength Supplement come in a package of 90. You will give your dog a specific number based on their size. These chews can be given to various small to large breeds, making them highly usable, especially for households with small dogs.
These chews help pets deal with allergies. The ingredients include colostrum, probiotics, turmeric, vitamin C, and salmon oil from Alaska. PetHonesty ensures that these supplements don't have corn, soy, preservatives, GMOs, or wheat.
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6. PetNC Hip & Joint Soft Chews
Dogs of all ages and sizes can use these soft chews from PetNC Hip & Joint Soft Chews. You will only need to adjust the dosage depending on the dog's weight, and you will have to change it as they grow. The supplement is meant to help care for and maintain your dog's hip and joint mobility. It is often recommended for early life stages in breeds with joint problems.
These pet supplements are veterinarian formulated. They have high-quality ingredients, including glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin. The antioxidants in them also support bone health and joint lubrication.
These soft chews have a natural liver flavor that makes them more palatable for dogs that need help with their joints. They also come in a resealable bucket that contains 90 soft chews, all for an affordable price. Unfortunately, these have a few ingredients like corn starch that some dog owners might not want to feed their dog because they are unsure if it is safe.
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7. Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin Bites Gut & Immune Health Supplement
One of the great options from Zesty Paws is the Core Elements 8-in-1 Bites. These treats benefit your dog's health in numerous ways. They benefit the immune system, digestive system, and joints. The bites can be administered to dogs of any age or size, depending on their requirements.
These supplements help with heart, skin, gut, hip, joint, immune system, and liver health. They also contain probiotic supplements, glucosamine, MSM, and vitamins A, E, D3, C, and B-complex.
Your dog will love these chews. They are not made with corn, wheat, or soy. Instead, they are healthy and rolled into a soft chew. They have a higher price than other brands, but they are more popular because of their good taste and effectiveness.
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8. American Journey Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Supplement
This American Journey Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Supplement has ingredients that help improve your dog's skin and coat health. If you have noticed that your dog has dandruff, skin problems, or a dull coat, this supplement can help.
This liquid formula comes in either an 18-ounce or a 32-ounce bottle. The only three ingredients are salmon oil, pollock oil, and mixed tocopherols (a form of preservative that is safe for dogs).
This formula is made with a blend of Alaskan salmon and pollock oils. These fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help nourish dry skin and brittle fur. The liquid formula comes in a convenient squeeze bottle, so you can supplement your pet's meal with it. It also boosts the flavor. The downside to the bottle's format is that it can be difficult to measure the required teaspoon per 10 pounds weight.
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9. VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III Ultimate Strength Joint Support Chews
VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III supports a dog's joints and other body areas. These soft chews have been developed using a complete joint support system that has been incorporated into them. As a result, they help your dog stay healthy throughout their life cycle by maintaining joint health throughout all stages.
A well-established brand develops these chews. Veterinarians have recommended this brand for more than 30 years. The formula contains the most MSM, glucosamine, and Perna canaliculus. These work together to offer a superior joint care program.
These chews have been clinically proven to increase hind leg strength in dogs by up to 41% within only four weeks. It is also great for a range of ages and for pups who have recently been recovering from surgery. They are also naturally flavored with real chicken, which keeps your dog returning for more each day.
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Buyer’s Guide
You need to find the right supplements for your dog. This depends on the breed, age, and health of your dog. You must consider what your dog needs and what might happen if they don't have the supplement. For example, some breeds are more likely to have joint or cartilage problems. Dogs that have allergies will need help controlling their symptoms.
Essential Vitamins for Dogs
Dogs need specific vitamins to stay healthy, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. If your dog doesn't get enough of these nutrients in their typical meals, you might need to supplement their diet with vitamins and nutrients in a supplement.
Ongoing Health and Considerations
You might need to talk to your vet about your dog's dietary needs. Make sure your dog is eating a balanced diet. If you give them a raw diet, you might need to use dog supplements that help with their diet.
Age Range and Weight
You should consider your dog's age and weight before choosing a supplement. Not all supplements are for all dogs. If your dog is not in one of the weight or age groups, or if you give them too much, they might get diarrhea and be unhappy.
What Vitamins Are Necessary for a Healthy Dog?
Vitamins and other organic substances are essential to maintaining good health and ensuring proper growth in all living things. Because the body cannot produce its own, all living things, including humans and other animals, must obtain vitamins from their food. All dogs are members of the Canis familiaris species. As a result, their nutritional requirements are highly similar, as stated by Dr. Gary Richter, an award-winning veterinarian member of Rover's Dog People Panel.
These particular dietary requirements for canines are as follows:
- Vitamin K stimulates the production of clotting factors, bone proteins, and various other proteins.
- Vitamin B1 (thiamin) has to do with the metabolism of carbohydrates and the activation of ion channels in brain tissue.
- Riboflavin and niacin (also known as vitamins B2 and B3, respectively)about the activities of enzymes
- Vitamin B6 for the production of glucose, the operation of red blood cells, the function of the neurological system, the reaction of the immunological system, and the control of hormones
- Folic acid for the process of metabolism and the production of proteins
Should You Use Vitamin Supplements for Dogs?
Commercial dog food is specifically created to suit these requirements since a healthy diet supplies all of the vitamins and nutrients necessary for optimal health. A well-balanced diet is what gives this. Suppose your dog is not displaying any signs of illness and is eating a diet that is both complete and balanced. In that case, it is pretty unlikely that they require a supplement.
On the other hand, supplements might benefit dogs with specific health and wellbeing concerns. Vitamins, minerals, and other naturally occurring and synthetically produced compounds may be included in the formulation of various dietary supplements. These items promote a wide range of wellness goals, including overall wellness, healthy vision, and lustrous coats. According to veterinary nutritionist Dr. Susan Wynn, quoted in an article written for WebMD, dietary supplements can be especially beneficial for older dogs. "Antioxidants like vitamins C and E [may] reduce inflammation and help elderly dogs with cognitive issues," she says.
Dogs that eat home-cooked meals may require dietary supplements to maintain a healthy diet. Diets consisting solely of foods prepared at home, unprocessed, are very beneficial (in fact, Richter highly recommends them). If you make your dog food at home, however, you might not have access to all the specific vitamins necessary for your pet. Vitamin supplements designed specifically for dogs can be quite helpful in situations like these.
Richter advises, "If you have any issues about diet, it is a good idea to contact a veterinarian," so keep that in mind. It is the case regardless of whether you choose to grab a bag of dog food from the shelf or prepare the dog's food yourself, but it is especially the case with the latter option. Your veterinarian can test for vitamin deficiencies if you suspect your dog has them. Go to a veterinary nutritionist who can assist you figure out the best way to feed your dog. Or offer vitamins and other supplements that may help your dog's specific requirements.
How to Choose Vitamin Supplements for Dogs
Nutritional supplements are not the same thing as medication. Consequently, they are not subjected to the same tests and regulations as pharmaceuticals. It makes it much easier for those who own pets to get their hands on vitamins, as they do not typically require a prescription to be acquired. On the other hand, this also indicates that they do not necessarily address particular health concerns in the same way and that using them comes with a certain degree of risk.
Always converse with your pet's veterinary professional about what supplements are necessary for your animal companion's health. Vitamin supplements for dogs can contain many different components, not all of which are always clearly described on the product's package. A dog can consume too much of a good thing, leading to an excessive amount of some vitamins. Certain substances can have a negative interaction with drugs or other supplements.
It is a regular practice for veterinarians to provide their clients with recommendations for specific things they have discovered. To be dependable based on professional competence and, when relevant, peer-reviewed studies. In addition, the following are some general guidelines that can be helpful when selecting vitamin supplements for your dog:
- Consider brands that have conducted clinical research on their products.
- To ensure quality and safety, read labels thoroughly.
- Examine the merchandise for a lot number. It indicates that the organization utilizes quality control checks.
- Select brands with demonstrated expertise.
- Be skeptical of assertions that seem too good to be true. Vitamin supplements are not drugs or panaceas.
- Dogs should not be given human supplements, as they may contain substances that are toxic to them.
When giving your dog vitamin supplements, your first and foremost responsibility is to consult with your trusted veterinarian. And remember to keep a close eye on your dog while he is using the product, no matter how carefully you selected it. Visit your pet's veterinarian as soon as possible if you observe any deterioration in their health or the emergence of any new issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Supplements for Dogs
Most dogs don't need supplements until they are much older, but some dogs may require supplements from an early age due to different genetics. If you have a dog with special medical needs, supplements or vitamins can be great ways to help your dog live a happy, healthy, and active lifestyle.
You must supplement their diet with calcium if you don't feed your dog raw meaty bones. Multivitamin and mineral supplements usually do not have enough calcium. You should give your dog 800 to 1,000 mg of calcium for every pound of dog food they eat (not counting non-starchy vegetables).
Vitamin C, niacin, biotin, and folic acid are all okay for dogs. Omega 3 fatty acids (particularly fish oil) are also good for canines. Gel caps manufactured for people, on the other hand, might be a significant challenge to swallow for a dog.
Do not give human vitamins to your dog unless your veterinarian has said it is okay. Human vitamins are not designed for dogs and can cause harm if given in the wrong dosage or for too long.
If a dog needs a vitamin E supplement, it should only get one if a veterinarian approves it first. If the dog is already eating a complete and balanced diet, adding too many supplements can harm and lead to blood clotting problems. Always talk to your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your diet.
Pets need vitamins just like people do. Vitamins keep pets' skin and coat healthy, strengthen their bones and teeth, and give them energy.