Taking care of our furry friends is a top priority for any pet parent, but understanding whether your dog needs supplements can be confusing. On one hand, we're told that the food we provide is nutritionally complete, but a quick visit to the pet store reveals shelves full of vitamins and supplements for dogs.
So, how do you know if your dog is getting the right nutrients? Does your dog actually need supplements, and if so, which ones are the best choice?
The Power of Natural Nutrition
We believe that many of the vitamins and nutrients your dog needs can be sourced from natural, wholesome foods. Certain superfoods are easy to incorporate into your dog's diet and can help you avoid relying on synthetic supplements.
While dogs don't require a large variety of vitamins, a well-balanced diet should generally provide everything they need. However, if you're considering adding synthetic multivitamins to your dog’s routine, it's important to consult with your vet first.
Fatty Acids and Vitamin A
One of the easiest and most beneficial natural supplements for dogs is fatty acids, specifically omega-3 and omega-6. These nutrients provide energy, support joint and digestive health, and promote the healthy development of tissues and organs.
Vitamin A is also crucial, as it requires fat to be absorbed into the body. This fat-soluble vitamin promotes good vision, healthy skin, and soft tissue. Because of their relationship with fats, fatty acids and Vitamin A go hand in hand.
Signs Your Dog May Be Lacking Fatty Acids and Vitamin A:
- Dry, flaky skin
- Dull coat
- Frequent illness
- Allergies or yeast infections
What Can You Do? Incorporate natural sources of fatty acids and Vitamin A into your dog’s diet. You can sprinkle ground flaxseed or add coconut oil or flax oil to their meals. Fish oil capsules, often the same ones we take, are also a good option, especially for senior dogs with joint issues.
Vegetables like sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and carrots are rich in Vitamin A – a good rule of thumb is to think of any orange veggie as a great source!
We offer a fantastic selection of supplements, including Omega-3s and Vitamin A. Explore our collection designed to support healthy skin, coat, and joint health.
B Vitamins
The B family of vitamins (eight in total) is essential for converting food into energy, though they don’t provide energy directly. These vitamins help your dog’s body process nutrients from their meals.
Signs Your Dog May Be Lacking B Vitamins:
- Slow growth in puppies
- Eye issues
- Inflamed gums
- Loss of appetite
- Blackened tongue
- Bone pain
- Allergies
What Can You Do? Many vegetables and whole grains are packed with B vitamins. You can add foods like oats, quinoa, brown rice, bananas, peanut or almond butter, and leafy greens (spinach, kale) to your dog's diet.
When to Consult a Vet
It’s important to remember that not all symptoms are caused by vitamin deficiencies, and a variety of issues can lead to similar signs. Keep an eye on your dog's overall health, and when in doubt, consult your vet. A holistic vet may be especially helpful in guiding you toward natural solutions.
If your dog is generally healthy and you're looking to maintain their well-being while avoiding frequent vet visits, we recommend incorporating natural supplements into their diet. These can be an excellent way to ensure your dog stays in optimal health without turning to synthetic alternatives. We provide a variety of supplements to meet different needs. Choose from the options below:
If this sounds too overwhelming, please reach out to our team for assistance!