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On these cold, dark nights, there's nothing more enjoyable than getting cosy on the sofa, with a nice steaming cuppa, and settling down to watch a Christmas film or a festive telly special. This year, there are lots of new Christmas movies streaming, and plenty on TV to keep you entertained. Here's what to watch this Christmas...

Eddie Murphy stars as Chris Carver in this Christmas comedy film - a man determined to win the neighbourhood's annual Christmas decorating contest. Desperate to succeed, Chris makes a pact with an elf named Pepper for the use of magic to make his home the most festive. But the evil elf casts a spell that brings the 12 days of Christmas to life and Chris must rally his family to help break the deal before he loses everything. Available from 1 December, on Amazon Prime Video.

Every year, Jackie, played by singer/songwriter Brandy, sends out a Christmas newsletter to all her friends, boosting about her perfect family. It enrages former university friend Charlotte, played by Heather Graham, who's sceptical that anyone's life could be so idyllic. And when a twist of fate lands Charlotte on Jackie's doorstep just days before Christmas, she vows to get to the truth. This is a new Christmas comedy film, available from 16 November, on Netflix.

This is funny and touching film about a divorced social worker for the Atlanta police department who despises Christmas due to a painful childhood memory. When sent on a call while spending Christmas Eve with his nine-year-old daughter, he inadvertently evokes the wrath of a local politician but meets a mysterious man in a red suit who helps him understand the joy and magic of Christmas. Available from 17 November, on Disney+.

In this Netflix Christmas movie, starring Jennifer Garner, a family descends into chaos days before Christmas, when a rate cosmic event causes the parents to swap bodies with their teenage kids. The family is forced to help each other navigate landing a promotion, college interview, record deal and football tryout. Available from 30 November, on Netflix.

When Andy wakes on Christmas morning and finds Santa hasn't left him anything under the tree, he realises his mischievous behaviour has landed him on the 'naughty list'. Feeling unfairly treated, Andy pulls together a team of the 'naughty listers' to carry out a heist in Santa's Village at the North Pole to get the presents they feel they deserve. But on their story journey, the kids begin to realise that Christmas is more about giving than taking. Available from 22 November, on Disney+.

**Hannah Waddingham: Home for Christmas**

Filmed at the London Coliseum in front of a live audience, this musical event promises a cosy night as Hannah Waddingham, Emmy Award winning star of Ted Lasso, performs Christmas classics accompanied by an 18-piece band. Available from 22 November, on Apple TV+.

The King of Christmas Movies, Richard Curtis (Love Actually, Four Weddings and a Funeral and Notting Hill) is back this year with a fairytale comedy. Flora, played by Melissa McCarthy, is a genie trapped for more than 2,000 years inside an antique jewellery box because of a little misunderstanding with a sorcerer. After millennia of being summoned to grant the wishes of greedy men, Flora is accidentally called on by Bernard Bottle, whose life is unraveling around him. In the process of trying to get his family back, Bernard and Flora will discover that love, and an unexpected friendship, can unleash a special holiday magic all of its own. Available from 1 December, on Sky Cinema and NOW.

Nigella has been going to Amsterdam at this time of year for decades and her Amsterdam Christmas Special will explain her love for this beautiful city. Join her, as she visits Christmas fairs, artisan food shops and some of her favourite architectural spots. She'll pick up ingredients for festive food, influenced by the Dutch and Indonesian cultures of the city, and offer tips to upgrading your festive food offerings. On 21 December, at 8pm, on BBC1 and BBC iPlayer.

Call the Midwife Christmas special 2023 promises to be another telly festive highlight. All the well-loved regular cast return for series 13, and in the first episode, Nonnatus House kicks off a new pupil midwife-training scheme, welcoming pupil midwives Joyce Highland and Rosalind Clifford. Both are excited by this new stage in their careers and move into Nonnatus House, sharing a room. Joyce hails from Trinidad. She's hardworking, bright, and deeply kind, but has a traumatic past that she cannot conceal forever. Rosaline is young, warm, passionate, and funny. She may seem naive at times, but has an inner steeliness that will lead her to making some life-changing decisions. It's now 1969 and more babies are being born in hospital than ever before. This series will see stories from within the Sylhet and Nigerian communities and from around the docks. Poor housing continues to blight areas of Poplar, presenting complex social and health challenges to the Nonnatus team. Available on BBC1, date TBC.

**A Ghost Story for Christmas: Lot No. 249**

Sherlock co-creator Mark Gatiss will be adapting Arthur Conan Doyle's short story Lot No. 249 for Christmas, starring Kit Harington and Freddie Fox. The story revolves around a group of Oxford students, one of whom undertakes research into the secrets of Ancient Egypt, which become the talk of the college. Available on BBC2, date TBC.

As we return to Sant Marie, plenty of familiar faces, including Patsy Kensit, Doon Mackichan and Youssef Kerkour join the beloved regular cast. Entrepreneur and family man, Gerry, is found dead in a ravine. His family, wife Bella, children Benjamin and Mariana, and niece Riley, are left in shock. As DI Neville Parker, DS Naomi Thomas, officer Marlon Pryce and trainee officer Darlene Curtis set to work on cracking this mysterious death, things take a turn as the family's visiting digital marketing guru, Debbie, suddenly disappears. Her helpless partner, Dave, is determined to find out what happened to her. Meanwhile, Neville, still grappling with the betrayal of last season and believing that some people just aren't meant to find love, is visited by his larger-than-life mother. Available on BBC1, date TBC.

The Brassic gang plan to kick back, relax and enjoy Christmas to the max. But then comes a call from Dr Chris, saying his aunt is in crisis and needs looking after, and a robbery at Tyler's school ruins the nativity. Vinnie, Erin, Tommie, Cardi, Carol, Ashely and JJ must bring their A-Game and help save Christmas the Brassic way. This extra special Brassic Christmas episode also stars Imelda Staunton and Greg Davies. Available on 21 December, 10pm on Sky Max and Now.

What to watch this Christmas

Dog coats aren't always just for fun or a statement, they are a genuinely beneficial article of clothing that will help keep your pup warm in colder weather. Some breeds of dogs do not have thick enough fur to keep warm in the chilly winter months, so a dog coat would be a massive advantage for them to feel comfortable. The :a[best pet clothes]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-clothes-for-pet-dog-cat/' } for your dog can be stylish and practical.

Dog coats come available in a variety of sizes to fit all dogs, big or small. They are also normally windproof and water-resistant - keeping your dog warm and dry on walks through the inevitably rainy British seasons. In addition, you'll find variations, such as dog-drying coats and :a[dog-cooling vests]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-cooling-vests/' } for the summer.

• **Best budget dog coat:** ANCOL Muddy Paws Stormguard Coat – :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ancol-Muddy-Protector-Chocolate-Medium/dp/B00EIC1OIS/?tag=tabparticle1016-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best dog coat for design and colours:** All Seasons Waterproof Dog Coat in Blue Check – :a[View on Treat Your Dog]{href='https://www.treatyourdog.co.uk/products/waterproof-padded-dog-coat-blue-check' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best dog coats for walks**: Flecta Vizlite Reflective Dog Jacket - :a[View Offer at Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/flecta-vizlite-reflective-dog-jacket-medium-50cm' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Firstly, just like humans try on clothes, you will be able to tell if your dog feels uncomfortable in its coat. So make sure they seem content with it before settling for the purchase. Make sure your pup can move freely in the coat and do normal actions such as running, playing and going to the toilet.

Additionally, it is recommended that you buy a coat that has reflective strips to keep your four-legged friend :a[safe in the dark]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-whistle/' }. The reflective detailing will help cars and bikes see them and put your mind to rest on night walks.

## Final verdict: the best overall dog coat {#h-final-verdict-the-best-overall-dog-coat}

The coat that ticks all the boxes for us has to be the :a[ANCOL Muddy Paws Stormguard Coat]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ancol-Muddy-Protector-Chocolate-Medium/dp/B00EIC1OIS/ref=sxin_9_ac_d_rm?tag=tabparticle1016-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} due to its lovely design, reflective edge tape, range of sizes and great price tag. However, in a close second is the :a[Barbour Quilted Dog Coat,]{href='https://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/brand/barbour/quilted-dog-coat-770004?utm_source=rakuten&amp;utm_medium' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} which has a gorgeous classic design and currently is being offered at a discounted price.

### Do dogs need to wear a coat? {#h-do-dogs-need-to-wear-a-coat}

Most dogs can handle small periods in cold weather, but certain breeds feel the cold more than others, and your dog will benefit from wearing a coat. Additionally, If dogs are older, ill, or have thin furs such as whippets or greyhounds then they will benefit from a dog coat as they feel the cold much faster.

### How do I keep my dog safe in the cold? {#h-how-do-i-keep-my-dog-safe-in-the-cold}

As things are getting a little chilly outdoors, it's very important to keep our dogs healthy and happy. So, we've got some expert tips on how to keep your pooch safe in the cold with the help of John Smith, pet expert and founder of a personalised shop for pet lovers, :a[Yappy.com]{href='https://www.yappy.com/uk' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}:

1\. **They may need an extra layer** - as your dog can feel the cold just like you. It's worth investing in some thicker, warmer coats for winter walks. Breeds that "struggle, when temperatures dip, include small dogs such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers," according to John. Also, breeds with thinner hair (such as Greyhounds and Great Danes) also "struggle to maintain a warm body temperature". On the other hand, a Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute - with their beautiful, thick coats - will be able to cope with the cold "without any extra protection".

2\. **If the temperature is too low, stay indoors** - as this is too much of a risk for your pup ", especially for smaller dogs with thinner coats," says John. If the temperature has dropped below -7, you're better off not taking your dog for a walk. As an alternative, John suggests "spending some time playing with them indoors" instead.

3\. **Look out for signs when you're out for a walk** - as these will let you know if it's too cold for your dog. If they start "shivering, whining, or licking their paws, then that's a clear sign your dog is uncomfortable and it's best to head home," says John. Believe it or not: dogs can get hypothermia, too. Make sure to be aware of these signs, too. John lists them as "shaking, lethargy, dilated pupils and a low heart rate". If you're concerned, you must wrap them up warm in a blanket or towel - and seek emergency assistance from your vet.

4\. **Don't leave them in the car** - during the summer months - and the winter months, too. In the winter months, your car won't overheat, however, "the temperature in the car can often be the same as the temperature of a refrigerator". Therefore, John adds that leaving your dog in the car during the winter can increase the risk of hypothermia.

5\. **Check their paws!** \- is John's final tip. Unfortunately, ice, snow and grit can often wear down their pads. This "can be painful and uncomfortable for your dog," says John. Plus, it's very common for their little noses to become "dry, crackled and bleed" during the colder months when being outside. John suggests investing in :a[nose and paw balm]{href='https://www.petspurest.com/products/coconut-paw-nose-balm' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}. Hopefully, this will "keep their paws and nose moisturised" during the winter months - and prevent cracking.

### What temperature does a dog need a coat? {#h-what-temperature-does-a-dog-need-a-coat}

According to :a[Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/pet-talk/pet-care-seasonal-advice-does-your-dog-need-a-coat-this-winter?utm_source=affiliates&amp;utm_medium=affiliate_link&amp;utm_campaign=rakuten&amp;cm_mmc=affiliates-_-affiliate-_-affiliate_marketing-_-rakuten&amp;ita=1976&amp;ito=rakuten_affiliate&amp;ranMID=40864&amp;ranEAID=TnL5HPStwNw&amp;ranSiteID=TnL5HPStwNw-1qHFkLxpy2HRT.LDcvoWrQ' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}, here's a handy guide on what temperature a dog may need a coat:

**Below 10⁰C -** Some small to medium-size dogs might need to be walked in a jumper or coat depending on the length of their fur, activity levels, and how long they'll be outside.

**Below 5⁰C** - Certain larger dog breeds can be affected by the cold weather and may need to wear a coat. Pay close attention to their fur length, time spent outside, and behaviour when in the cold

**Minus 5⁰C or less** - Although you know your dog best, please be wary when walking any breed or size of the dog in such low temperatures as this can cause frostbite and paw injuries

### How do I measure my dog for a coat? {#h-how-do-i-measure-my-dog-for-a-coat}

In order to measure your dog you will need to take three measurements:

**Chest**: Start by measuring the thickest part of your dog's chest which is behind their front legs. Allow for a few extra centimetres when choosing the size so they can have extra room for mobility.

**Length**: To measure the length of your dog, make sure your dog is standing properly and not sitting or lying down. Start by measuring along your dog's backbone from the base of the neck to 5cm from the base of the tail.

**Neck**: The last measurement you need to take is around the girth of the neck and add a couple of centimetres to allow room for movement and for a lead.

_:a[Ellen Kinsey]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/author/ellen-kinsey/' } is a senior health and wellness product writer for Take A Break, specialising in natural health. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness._

Dachshund being held whilst wearing a coat

Dog coats for all breeds and sizes

Picking the best dog supplements for your furry friend’s health should come with the recommendation of a veterinarian. Supplementing vitamins and minerals for humans has become popular for us humans – and :a[Pets Purest]{href='https://www.petspurest.com/blogs/pets-purest-blog/why-would-you-choose-our-supplement-treats' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} asks: Why don’t we do the same for dogs? After all, studies show that 25-65 per cent of dogs suffer from undernourishment. If you’ve spoken with a vet who has given you the all-clear, take a dive into our picks of the best dog supplements to help your pooch thrive.

Many of the supplements we’re used to seeing just don’t seem to agree with our dogs. From concealing tablets in peanut butter to crushing up :a[dog-friendly probiotic pills]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/care/best-pet-health-supplements-probiotics/' } in their wet food, it’s not an easy task. Perhaps, you’ve asked yourself: What are good supplements to add to dog food? Well, brands like Pets Purest are thinking differently. “If we have delicious chewy alternatives or yummy green juices, surely our pets deserve the same treatment?” Giving us paws for thought…

## Last minute Black Friday deals on dog supplements

We interrupt the regularly scheduled content to let you know that although Black Friday is over, there's still time to grab some last chance :a[Black Friday deals]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/care/pet-black-friday-deals/' } on dog supplements. These are the retailers that still have deals available or keep scrolling to continue reading our buyer’s guide.

**Shop for dog supplement deals on:** :a[Pets at Home]{href='https://www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/black-friday-week' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} | :a[Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/?tag=tabparticle1211-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} | :a[Viovet]{href='https://www.viovet.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} | :a[Zooplus]{href='https://www.zooplus.co.uk/shop/pet_supplies_specials/cyberweek' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} | :a[Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

**31% discount:** :a[YuMOVE Daily Bites For Adult Dogs, WAS £51.95, NOW £35.92]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/YuMOVE-Daily-Bites-Adult-Supplement/dp/B08ZPW7FHG?tag=tabparticle1211-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**25% with code CYBER:** :a[Pooch & Mutt Bionic Biotic, WAS £10.99, NOW £8.24]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/products/bionic-biotic' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

There are many ways to enrich your dog’s diet, whether given as a treat or as a wet food topper at mealtimes. For example, Omega-rich fish oils have become a firm favourite for skin and :a[joint support]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-joint-supplements-dogs-uk/' }, which can be found in squeezy bottles and hidden in chewy bites. Similarly, summertime sneezy symptoms can be common in our furry friends. Dog :a[hayfever remedies]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/dog-hayfever/' } extend further than the expected shampoo and itch creams. With a bit of hope, they’ll stop scratching.

Though loyal, dogs can be a handful – which is why getting on top of their health is important in the long run, for peace of mind and to anticipate future vet bills. To get some clarity on your dog’s breed, health profile or potential allergies, we recommend a :a[doggie DNA test]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-dna-test-uk/' }. This way, any stress to your pooch can be avoided. Taking precautions and preventive measures for your dog’s health is a wise choice, though a gap in their nutrition may come from the food they’re eating, so review this first.

## Best dog supplements at a glance: {#h-best-dog-supplements-at-a-glance}

• **Best dog supplement for joints**: YuMOVE Daily Bites for Adult Dogs – :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/YuMOVE-Daily-Bites-Adult-Supplement/dp/B08ZPW7FHG/?tag=tabparticle1211-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best dog digestive supplement**: YuMove Digestive Care for Dogs – :a[View offer on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lintbells-YuDIGEST-Digestive-Supplement-Troubles/dp/B0080PACF0/?tag=tabparticle1211-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best dog supplements for skin and coat**: Pooch & Mutt Skin and Coat Probiotic Meaty Treats – :a[View offer at Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/products/skin-coat-meaty-treats/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best dog omega-3 supplement**: Pets Purest Natural Scottish Salmon Oil – :a[View Offer at Pets Purest]{href='https://www.petspurest.com/products/100-natural-pure-scottish-salmon-oil' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

It’s understandable as to why many dog owners take their dog’s joint health seriously, says :a[Pets Purest]{href='https://www.petspurest.com/blogs/pets-purest-blog/3-products-to-help-improve-your-pets-joints' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. After all, it’s “one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions” in our furry friends. While running around and playing may impact our pooch’s joint health, diet can play a big role, too. Luckily, there are plenty of dog foods, as well as supplements that support joint health and mobility.

**Look out for**: Glucosamine, Green Lipped Mussel, Turmeric, Salmon Oil.

Below, are our two favourite joint health supplements for your pooch.

Probiotics, in essence, contribute to friendly bacteria that “promote a harmonious gut environment, enable proper digestion, inhibit the growth of ‘bad’ bacteria and boost your dog’s immune system,” says :a[Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/supplements/guide-to-probiotics-for-dogs' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. If your pooch has a runny tummy, probiotics can restore balance – and could have plenty of other health benefits. Luckily, you can supplement it and find it in some dog food.

We love the :a[Lily’s Kitchen Recovery Recipe]{href='https://www.lilyskitchen.co.uk/for-dogs/sensitive-stomachs/recovery-recipe-6-x-400g-KDRR10.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}, if you’re looking to introduce some new chow.

**Look out for**: Prebiotics FOS and MOS.

Below, we’ve hand-picked our favourite probiotic supplements for your furry friend.

The condition of your dog’s skin and coat is an indicator of their overall health. A shiny coat is ideal – and at the very least as soft as possible, says :a[Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/supplements/how-to-improve-dogs-coat-condition-skin' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. By no means should you be treating your dog to weekly beauty appointments, but keeping on top of grooming and supplementing your dog’s diet can nudge their skin and coat in the right direction, free from any itches or shedding.

Luckily, there are plenty of :a[food for itchy skin and allergies]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-food-for-itchy-skin-allergies/' } that could help your furry friend out.

**Look out for**: Herring or Salmon Oil, Linseed (Omega 3 & 6), Probiotics, Milk Thistle, Collagen, Biotin.

Below, are some of our favourite skin and coat supplements to add to your doggies’ diet.

From the post office making their rounds to a stranger walking past, our dogs are fiercely protective and loyal - but, sometimes can be panicky. As :a[Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/blogs/supplements/calming-anti-anxiety-supplements-for-dogs-what-to-try' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} puts it: “If there was ever a pet that’s alert to protecting their human at all costs, it’s dogs”. It’s unsettling to see your pooch in distress – and keeping your pooch at ease with :a[calming plug-ins]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-calming-plug-in-uk/' } and supplements will prevent other issues, such as digestive issues and excessive barking.

**Look out for**: Hemp, Lemon Balm, Thiamine, L-tryptophan, Ginger, Passion Flower, Lavender.

Below, we’ve picked some panicked pooch-friendly supplements to keep your home calm…

Supplements, for both humans and pets, showcase vast diversity in effectiveness and the scientific support behind various ingredients and products, says :a[dog health brand YuMove]{href='https://yumove.co.uk/blogs/health-guides/5-reasons-why-a-cheaper-supplement-could-end-up-costing-you-more?source=aw&amp;awc=17141_1697196014_594c1ad227f418dd0cf6517957083e44&amp;utm_source=affiliate&amp;utm_medium=78888' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}. This way, choosing the best dog supplements to support your pooch’s lifestyle is paramount. Not only that but picking a reputable brand comes in handy. And – not supplementing could cost you more down the line…

To support all of the above, why not grab our top multivitamin to cover all bases?

Though our hay fever symptoms are pretty straightforward with a pesky itch or sneeze, our pooch may actually be in a lot of discomfort. Dr Linda Simon – resident Veterinary Surgeon at :a[Pooch & Mutt]{href='https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} claims that by scheduling walks when pollen count is low, and increasing washing, growing and mowing your lawn, you can help everyone in the household keep safe from the pesky pollen.

With that, here are some of our favourite dog hayfever solutions:

Though a fun experience, if you don't have the right :a[dog travel accessories]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/dog-travel-accessories/' }, you’re in for a hell of a ride. Car sickness, believe it or not, is a common problem for puppies and dogs. It is a combination of anxiety and stress whilst travelling, as well as a dizzy imbalance caused by motion. For this, the :a[PDSA recommends]{href='https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/car-sickness-and-motion-sickness-in-dogs' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} taking preventive measures, as well as considering treatments for your sick pup.

**Look out for**: Pheromones, Lavender, Camomile, Lemon Balm, Ginger, Thiamine.

Below, are some temporary :a[travel sickness remedies]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/travel-sickness-tablets-for-dogs/' } for your dog to take for a spin:

A dog’s health isn’t just down to genetics, says :a[Embark Vet]{href='https://shop.embarkvet.com/en-gb/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}, it reaches beyond to things like “diet, environment, and lifestyle.” Genetic testing has taken the world by storm – and there’s no reason why our furry friends should be missing out. If your rescue’s origins are a little hazy – and you need some information on possible health issues down the line, we recommend a DNA test kit…

Below, is our favourite DNA test kit to get some clarity on your dog’s breed, health and allergens.

## Verdict: What is the best dog supplement?

YuMove is a well-loved and vet-recommended dog supplement brand, with over 15 years of experience. Their expertise knows no bounds and their :a[YuCare Multivitamins for Adult Dogs]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/YuCARE-MultiVits-Supplement-Vitamins-Multivitamin/dp/B097RF44ZD/?tag=tabparticle1211-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} is a great all-rounder.

Supplements can play a vital role in maintaining your dog's health, but it's crucial to choose the right ones. So, Take a Break Pets has pulled together a guide that provides a detailed overview of the factors to consider when deciding which supplements to give to your dog – if they need them.

Every dog supplement journey should begin with a trip to the vet. Before introducing anything to your dog’s diet, your vet should assess your dog’s overall health, specific needs and potential risks.

Next, with your vet, take a close look at your dog's diet to identify any nutritional gaps. Which :a[dog food brand]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-food-brands/' } are you feeding your pooch? A balanced diet is the foundation of your dog's health.

**Consider**: Age, breed, activity level, dietary restrictions and allergies.

Perhaps, you’re thinking: what supplements should I give my dog? Below, are some of the most commonly recommended supplements for dogs and their benefits to your pooch’s wellbeing:

**Multivitamins** – ensures your dog receives essential vitamins and minerals.

**Omega-3 Fatty Acids** – promote healthy skin, coat, and joint function.

**Glucosamine and Chondroitin** – support joint health, especially for older dogs.

**Probiotics** – maintain a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.

**Calcium** – is important for bone health, especially for puppies and pregnant dogs.

Some factors may affect the choices you make, and what your vet recommends:

**Age** – is important! After all, puppies, adult dogs, and seniors have varying nutritional needs.

**Breed** – influences what you buy, as some breeds are more prone to certain health issues than others.

**Health Conditions** – may affect your choices. Some dogs may require tailored, specific supplements.

**Pregnancy** – whether nursing or not, may mean your dog requires extra nutrients.

It is your responsibility as a dog owner to understand the proper dosages for supplements:

**Dosages** – are best followed – from your veterinarian. Be cautious not to over-supplement.

**Interactions** – can cause issues, so be aware of any between supplements and medications.

**Quality** – as mentioned before, comes first. Choose quality supplements from reputable brands.

With this, comes the responsibility to **monitor** your dog's health and **adjust** supplements as needed. Your vet can help you make necessary changes to the supplement regimen.

Of course, whether your dog needs supplements depends on their individual health, diet, and any specific concerns. It's best to consult with a veterinarian for personalised guidance on supplementing your dog's diet. In this round-up, we’ve made sure to include vet-approved supplements only.

### What supplements do I add to homemade dog food?

With the guidance of a vet, you can make dog food at home – which can help alleviate any allergies to ingredients found in dog food.

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