Support for the blog comes from using the affiliate links below. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission on purchases. Thank you in advance.
The Rise of the Dog Supplement Market
The dog supplement market has exploded in recent years as pet parents are more conscious of their dog’s health due to the worldwide pandemic. A survey of U.S. cat and dog owners found that more than a quarter report feeling more concerned about their pet’s health as a result of the virus.
Pet supplement manufacturers saw this trend and ran with it. There were 236% more immune-boosting health claims amongst new pet supplement products in 2020 versus 2019. Below I explore the most popular dog supplements on the market and dive into the scientific research behind them to see if they are the next wonder cures or repackaged snake oil.
What are dog vitamins and supplements?
Dog vitamins and supplements are products that provide extra nutrients to help maintain your dog’s health. Different products contain different ingredients, but common dog vitamins and supplements are omega fatty acids, glucosamine and probiotics, as discussed below.
Do dogs need pet supplements?
If you are feeding your pup a commercially available, high quality dog food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient profile, then chances are they are already getting all the vitamins and nutrients they need. These dog foods are specifically formulated to support a healthy, balanced life by containing all the vitamins and minerals a balanced diet needs such as vitamin C, vitamin E and calcium etc.
It’s important to buy the specific food based on the life stage of your dog. Puppy food will have the nutrients to support growth and senior food will have the nutrients to support joint health and the different ailments which senior dogs usually suffer from.
Supplements are usually prescribed by vets when particular health issues arise but more and more pet owners are purchasing the below supplements as a preventative measure.
Best supplements for dogs
Glucosamine supplements
Dr. Georg Ledderhose first identified glucosamine in 1876. It is an amino sugar that appears to regulate the synthesis of collagen in cartilage and may provide mild anti-inflammatory effects. It is available in three forms: glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetylglucosamine.
It is often used in conjunction with another natural substance; chondroitin sulfate which inhibits destructive enzymes in joint fluid and cartilage. The two nutraceuticals also contribute to the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans, which are building blocks for the formation of cartilage.
Many dog owners and veterinarians believe that glucosamine for dogs is effective in relieving joint pain and improving mobility. However, the clinically researched benefit of using these agents to treat osteoarthritis in dogs is not definitive and can neither be confirmed nor denied. A lot more scientific research is needed before a conclusion can be drawn.
Does Glucosamine have side effects?
As these supplements are well-tolerated in dogs and side effects are minimal they can be given to young dogs not showing signs of arthritis or joint problems to maintain joint health. This is more of a preventative measure for dogs predisposed to joint pain and can be used early to prevent or delay damage.
My top pick for Glucosamine supplements
Nutramax Cosequin
Fish Oil
One of the most popular nutritional supplements to give your dog is a fish oil supplement. Fish oils contain a high portion of omega-3 fatty acids, notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
These essential fatty acids help build and maintain a healthy body and are key to the structure of every cell wall in the body. Like humans, dogs can’t produce omega-3 fatty acids on their own and must get them from their diet.
Early clinical research has shown that fish oils can support healthy skin and help alleviate joint pain in dogs whilst also supporting their heart health. Though the veterinary research is basic, the human trials have well-supported research data to back up these health benefits.
A fish oil supplement is also a great way to give your dog a fishy tasting treat each day. The additional flavor will add depth to your dog’s food and is a great way to simulate a raw food diet without the exuberant cost!
My top pick for fish oil for dogs
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Probiotics
A lesser-known supplement for your dog is a probiotic. The word itself is derived from the Latin word “for” (pro) and the Greek “life” (bio). Probiotics are “friendly” gut-dwelling microbes (bacteria and yeasts) which live in the digestive tract of animals and humans alike. The microbiome plays an important role in keeping our dog healthy by inhibiting disease-causing organisms, producing nutrients (including vitamin B and K) and supporting their immune health.
We can’t always keep an eye on what our dogs are eating, especially if they like to explore in bushes. A shift in your dog’s natural microbiome, from ingesting a pathogen on their walk, can lead to diarrhea, mood changes allergies and more. To help support them in overcoming these ailments, vet’s often prescribe a probiotic to get their microbiome back on track.
Just like with the supplements discussed above, the research behind the efficacy of canine probiotics is limited. However, there are studies which show the benefits of probiotics for dogs with acute diarrhea associated with stress or antibiotic use. The risks of taking probiotics are also considered low. Find a list of the best probiotics for dogs here.
My top pick for probiotics for dogs
Pet Honesty Probiotic Soft Chews
What to know before buying
If you are interested in giving your dog supplements then there are a few important tasks to follow before jumping in:
- Always speak to your vet before adding a supplement to your dog’s diet. Some supplements can interfere with medication which can cause harmful effects.
- Dig a little deeper into the brand to ensure they are reputable and respected. There are unsavoury companies out there all too willing to promise to cure cancer and take your money. If possible, choose a brand which specializes in supplements and has the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) seal of approval.
- Human supplements may not be good for dogs. Some contain toxic ingredients such as xylitol and should be avoided.
Conclusion
Supplements for dogs can be a great way to improve the health of your furry friend. However, it is important to do your research and consult with your vet before adding anything to their diet. Stick with reputable brands that have the NASC seal of approval and avoid giving your dog human supplements.
