The market for dog supplements has grown exponentially over the past few years, as pet owners want to do all they can to help their pets live happy, healthy lives.
For many dogs on an AAFCO-approved diet, supplements are not necessary, but some dogs who have underlying medical conditions or are prone to illnesses may benefit from them.
Before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet, it’s important to always discuss supplement recommendations with your veterinarian, who can help you find a product that meets your dog’s health needs.
What are dog supplements?
A supplement is defined as a product that is added to a pet’s regular diet and contains ingredients intended to improve the pet’s health. The National Animal Supplements Council (NASC) is a non-profit trade association that awards certification to manufacturers who meet the council’s standards. The organization offers the NASC Quality System to ensure safe, effective, high-quality products. When looking for supplements, look for the NASC seal to ensure they meet the standards.
Scientific studies have looked at many common supplement ingredients, and your veterinarian is the best source for choosing products that may benefit your dog and his or her health. While there is no silver bullet, many supplements can help slow the progression of disease or support your dog’s body to prevent illness.
Why do veterinarians recommend supplements?
Supplements are often recommended by veterinarians to enhance the effectiveness of other prescribed treatments or to prevent health problems, such as: Inhibits the progression of arthritis. In the case of fatty acid supplements, dogs with heart disease or puppies at risk of developing heart disease may benefit from having more of these nutrients in their bodies.
While a balanced diet is the basis of nutrition, supplements can help increase available nutrients. Some homemade diets have not been tested or balanced by a veterinarian or nutritionist and often require the addition of supplements to meet the proper vitamin and mineral ratios.
Because these diets tend not to be balanced, your veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist will need to make sure your dog’s diet is complete, and your veterinarian may recommend supplements as a way to make up for nutrients that are missing from these diets.
How supplements work for dogs
Supplements work by adding nutrients to a dog’s diet. For some dogs, getting more nutrients can help reduce or prevent illnesses. Puppies have different requirements than adult dogs because of their growing bodies, and older dogs often have health conditions that can be treated with supplements.
Common ingredients found in dog supplements
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are many Joint supplements that comprise compounds commonly found in cartilage. Supplements containing these compounds help maintain and heal joint cartilage health and support the fluid that lubricates the joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin may be recommended for dogs with hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, damaged cartilage, or loose joints.
Keep in mind that glucosamine must be used long-term to be effective and is not a cure for arthritic pain or joint problems in dogs. Depending on your dog’s health, work with your veterinarian to determine how to best combine both joint supplements and pain medications, if needed.
Antioxidant Supplements for Dogs
Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from free radicals (molecules that circulate throughout the body). Antioxidants help reduce inflammation, prevent disease, and support the body’s natural aging process.
Fish Oil Supplements for Dogs
Fish oil is an omega-3 fatty acid that improves coat and skin health, supports heart muscles, and is an antioxidant that aids in brain development.
Probiotic Supplements for Dogs
Probiotics are microorganisms that are beneficial to the body’s normal health processes. Probiotics can help restore balance to the bacterial flora in the digestive tract to aid healing after illness or to maintain good bacterial flora levels in pets prone to diseases that cause chronic diarrhea or nutrient malabsorption. Probiotics are often used during or after antibiotic therapy to replenish some of the “good” microorganisms that may be collaterally damaged by antibiotic use.
Liver Supplements for Dogs
S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is a popular liver support supplement that mimics glutathione, a compound produced in the body that is used to detoxify and protect the liver. Liver supplements are often recommended for toxins, gallbladder disease, or hepatitis.
Talk to your veterinarian about supplements
Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements. Never give your pet human supplements without first checking with your veterinarian. Dosage ranges vary and can cause toxic reactions in dogs. Giving the wrong supplements can cause calcium, vitamin D and iron to build up to dangerous levels in your dog’s body. Many human products also contain It contains xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
Supplements are not a substitute for your pet’s prescription medications. Do not discontinue prescription medications without your veterinarian’s permission. Your veterinarian is the best source of information and advice on finding the best supplements for your dog’s needs.
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