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As a loving dog parent, keeping your pooch healthy and happy is a top priority. And sometimes that means going beyond providing them with a good diet. The right supplement can support joint health, build the immune system, alleviate skin issues, heal the digestive system, or even calm anxious pups down.
But here’s the thing - dog supplements aren’t all created equal and selecting the right one for Fido can be harder than you think. That is, if you don’t have the information you need. Read on as we share how to choose the right dog supplement for your pup’s unique needs.
Before you can even think about choosing a dog supplement, you need to know what’s out there. Wondering what types of supplements are available to you? We’ve outlined them below.
When your pup is dealing with tummy troubles like diarrhea or vomiting, a vet may recommend a probiotic dog supplement. Much like probiotic supplements for humans, dog probiotics are formulated with beneficial bacteria (Enterococcus faecium and Bacillus coagulans, for example). When ingested, these strains, and more, balance the healthy and disease-causing bacteria in the gut.
But the benefits of probiotics don’t stop with just improving digestive health. Many probiotic supplements are designed to offer a broader range of health benefits, helping your dog feel better all around.
Every supplement is unique, but some may also deliver the below perks:
Hip and joint supplements for dogs are designed to prevent or treat joint and mobility-related issues. Professionals use them to heal spinal disc injuries, reduce arthritis symptoms, and ease surgery recovery.
When looking for the best joint supplement for dogs, favor those with glucosamine/chondroitin. These natural substances are extracted from healthy animal cartilage and support the growth of articular cartilage cells. Chondroitin alone stops the breakdown of cartilage.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a natural sulfur-based compound you’ll find in foods like dairy, meat, and veggies. It’s used in joint health supplements to address joint inflammation and imparts antioxidants, aiding in cartilage and bone formation.
As a result of these ingredients, your pup may enjoy:
When it comes to your dog’s skin, the phrase “out of sight, out of mind” should never apply. Dogs aren’t exempt from skin issues and may find themselves dealing with itching, irritation, excessive shedding, and more. That’s where a skin and coat health supplement for dogs comes in.
They are composed of skin and hair-healthy ingredients - let’s take omega-3 from fish oil, for example. These fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)) reduce skin inflammation, promote easier healing, and add a lustrous shine to your dog’s coat.
Top-of-the-line dog supplements for skin and coats also contain biotin (vitamin B7), a super-nutrient known to promote overall skin and coat health.
Dog skin and coat supplement offer the following advantages:
Doggy dental issues are more common than you might think - tartar buildup, bad breath, and gum inflammation are a few. Dog owners who notice these problems might consider a teeth and gums powder for dogs. They are specifically designed to reverse and prevent these issues for lasting dental health.
As you shop, you’ll see supplements with coconut powder (plaque remover and breath freshener), arcadian kelp (tartar softener and remover), and pomegranate extract (gum health support).
Adding a supplement like this to your dog’s diet could result in:
Anxiety doesn’t just affect us humans - our furry friends grapple with it too. In cases of mild anxiety, dog calming supplements may come in handy. They are formulated with ingredients that calm the canine mind. Chamomile, l-theanine, melatonin, and ashwagandha are typically used. They all have calming properties and can help to take the edge off in stressful situations.
When you enrich your doggo’s diet with a calming supplement for dogs, you may notice the following:
We’ve all heard it - if you want your dog to have a strong immune system, they need a healthy diet, regular exercise, proper hydration, etc. But what if your dog has an immune system condition or simply needs a boost in this department?
That’s what immune support supplements are for. They typically contain a blend of vitamins and minerals like vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Interestingly enough, vets often recommend probiotics for immune health. The microorganisms they introduce to the digestive tract boost gut immunity, and, consequently, overall immunity.
As you begin your search for a probiotic supplement for dogs, you may quickly realize that identifying the right one is hard. Supplements come in thousands of varieties, so you’ve got to be intentional. Here are a few things to keep in mind while sorting through your options:
Note: If you’re ever unsure of how to proceed with dog supplementation, don’t be afraid to talk to your vet. They consider your dog’s health status, current medications, physical state, and age and can help you make an informed supplement choice.
Let’s break things down further. Selecting the type(s) of supplements your dog needs is often the easy part. Selecting the perfect supplement within that category is what requires the most thought. Before adding a supplement to your physical or virtual cart, think about the following:
Ready to add a supplement to your dog’s diet? Start by gradually introducing it; administer a small amount before building up to the full dose. After giving the supplement, watch your dog very closely and be on the lookout for signs of an allergic reaction. If you notice that your dog is looking or acting off after starting a supplement, call your vet immediately.
Note: It always makes sense to speak with your dog’s vet to get their opinion before starting a new supplement.
Dog supplements are typically very low risk, so long as your dog actually needs them. For instance, if your pooch ends up with too much of a nutrient like calcium, they could develop skeletal problems. So, before adding a supplement to your dog’s diet, make doubly sure that they need it.
We advise against giving your dog any supplements that are designed for humans. They contain ingredients that could be harmful, or even fatal, for your dog. Xylitol and high amounts of vitamin D3 and iron are especially dangerous.
Other than that, you can feel confident that dog supplements from reputable companies are safe for dogs.
So, there you have it - how to choose the right supplement for your dog. Above all, remember to consider your dog’s specific needs, do your homework on ingredients and brands, and don’t hesitate to ask your vet for guidance when in doubt. We hope the information above makes the supplement selection process easier for you.
