Dogs get their daily dose of essential nutrients by consuming a life stage-appropriate, complete, balanced diet. However, commercial pet foods are not created equal. Homemade pet foods are also important culprits of nutritional deficiency in dogs.
Parasite infestations, illness, digestive disorders, etc., can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb and utilize vital nutrients. This can increase a dog’s risk for development specific health issues and nutritional deficiencies.
This is when supplements enter the stage…
Whether it's for preventative measures or for alleviating ongoing health concerns, supplements are a great way to support your dog’s current diet, lifestyle, and condition.
Supplements for dogs are scientifically formulated to meet the body's specific needs or correct any deficiency of particular vitamins and minerals they need to live a healthy and happy life.
All dogs can benefit from supplements
Dogs of all breeds may benefit from supplements to ensure they receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
Whether for preventative measures or alleviating existing health issues, supplements are a great way to support your dog’s current diet, lifestyle, and condition.
Supplements are formulated for specific health concerns
Some common dog supplements include fish oil, glucosamine, and probiotics. Fish oil can help with joint health and coat condition, glucosamine can help with mobility, and probiotics can help with digestion.
Here are five ways supplements can improve your dog’s overall well-being.
Joint health: Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help support joint health and mobility in dogs, particularly as they age or if they have conditions such as arthritis.
Coat and skin health: According to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, supplementing with fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can improve coat condition and reduce inflammation in dogs. Fish oil promotes skin and coat health, helping your dog have shiny hair, and skin that is less prone to dryness and flaking.
Immune support: Vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and selenium can help support a dog's immune system, keeping them healthy and less susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Digestive health: Probiotics and enzymes can help support a dog's digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of diarrhea and other digestive issues.
Overall health and well-being: A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Science (2012) found that antioxidant supplements can help protect dogs from the harmful effects of free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases.
Always check with your veterinarian
It's important to note that even if a supplement is suitable for your dog, the results may vary depending on the dog's overall health, life stage, and breed.
It's always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements, especially if they are already taking other medications.
A veterinarian can help determine if a supplement is appropriate for your dog and can also advise on the correct dosage and frequency of use.
Let us help you find the right supplements for your dog!
Supplements can be beneficial for dogs of any breed and age, as they can help support their overall health and well-being.
However, make sure to navigate this with the best support --- allow Suppy to be a part of your routine so you can rest assured that your dog is getting the essential vitamins, minerals, and probiotics they need to live their best life.
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