The best dog supplements for a healthy pooch

Support your dog’s joints, skin and coat, wellbeing, digestion and more…

Owner giving medicine in a pill to his sick dog. Medicine and vitamins for pets. The best dog supplements

by Piper Huxley |
Updated on

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 Pets Purest 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 dog-friendly probiotic pills 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…

Best dog supplements at a glance:

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 joint support, which can be found in squeezy bottles and hidden in chewy bites. Similarly, summertime sneezy symptoms can be common in our furry friends. Dog hayfever remedies 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 doggie DNA test. 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

Joint care

It’s understandable as to why many dog owners take their dog’s joint health seriously, says Pets Purest. 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.

Best dog supplement for joints

Perfect for your grown-up pup, these YuMOVE Daily Bites for Adult Dogs are soft, delicious and beloved. They're a natural joint supplement to help your dog feel young again, supporting their joints and mobility. They'll be scarpering around the garden in no time. It's packed with high-quality Omega-3 and other essential ingredients to support their joints. It's recommended by vets and loved by pets... It's hard to argue with something like that.

Customer review: "These have been great for our dog. She has them with her meals and they seem to have really helped her. Previously we were worried about our dog as she is old and has mobility issues. Although she does still have the issues they certainly aren't as bad."

Pros

  • Delicious soft chews for your pooch
  • Packed with joint-soothing Omega-3
  • Natural supplement for mobility

Cons

  • May not be for all dogs
IngredientsGreen Lipped Mussel, Vitamins C and E, Glucosamine, Manganese, Hyaluronic Acid
Quantity150
PreparationSoft Chews
AgeAdult Dogs
SizeAny Size
DosageDouble dosage for the first 4-6 weeks. After, consult the following: Small Dogs - 1 Bite, Medium Dogs - 2 Bites, Large Dogs - 3 Bites and Very Large Dogs - 4 Bites

Best natural dog joint supplement

From Pets Purest, we recommend this powerful joint and hip support for all animals. Whether dog, cat or ferret, this natural Pets Purest Natural Joint Support formula effectively helps support and manage joint and hip mobility. Improve your friend's quality of life with this long-lasting supply. Plus, it's made in Britain with quality ingredients. You can't go wrong. Simply, add to your furry friend's food or water for a little extra support.

Customer review: "Bought this for my daughter's frenchie and we have seen a remarkable improvement in her mobility since giving it to her; glad it is full of natural ingredients. Frenchies tend to have back hip bother but this has helped her for a sure great product."

Pros

  • For all animals
  • Easy supplementation
  • Natural ingredients

Cons

  • Not for pregnant animals
IngredientsTurmeric, Scutellaria Biacalensis, Uncaria, Boswellia
Quantity50 ml
PreparationLiquid Drops
AgeAfter 6-8 Weeks
SizeAny Size
DosageXS is 3-5, Small is 5-7, Medium is 7-10 and Large is 10-15 drops.

Digestion

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 Pooch & Mutt. 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 Lily’s Kitchen Recovery Recipe, 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.

Best probiotic for dogs

Power to the condiments! This Pooch + Mutt Bionic Biotic would pair perfectly with any wet food you put down in your pooch's bowl. Easy to administer, this probiotic supplement will reduce itching and scratching, help coat growth and healthy skin, promote soil stool and aid healthy digestion. How awesome does that sound? This supplement is an all-in-one powerhouse, containing chicory root, fish oil, vitamin E and antioxidants. It's tailored to be an all-rounder.

Customer Review: "Dog stools are so much better and he no longer leaves his food for hours. Eats it as soon as it’s put down for him. Will definitely buy again."

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic recipe
  • Antioxidant-rich
  • Sprinkle on their food

Cons

  • Not a grain-free mix
  • Suited to wet food only
IngredientsGround micronized maize, maize gluten meal, chicory roots powder (as a source of fructo-oligosaccharides; prebiotic fos 15%), mannan-oligosaccharides (prebiotic mos; 15%), beta-1,3/1,6-glucans (5.5%), yeast, oatfeed meal, fish oil (omega-3 supplement; 1%), calcium carbonate, monocalcium phosphate, sodium chloride, rapeseed oil.
Quantity200g
PreparationPowder, Condiment
AgeFrom 12 weeks old
SizeAll Sizes
DosageSmall Dogs is 1 tsp, Medium is 2 tsp, Large is 3 tsp, Giant is 4 tsp

Best dog digestive supplement

YuMove Digestive Care for All Dogs
Price: $57.44
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=bc3ae48d404325931c0c47c2e9b61de3&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=ChdHERYOF0tDR0MdRVRVXlARRE1XWA4dDElNelgKEQAGXw0WGWERcHlzdmFhFHdeBB0nXVAGQRFQFFMcLAADD0cJSGdNFERcUV5XW00cBVUIUgcFUgRc&x=v1

Next, we can vouch for the YuMove Digestive Care for Dogs - and cats, would you believe? It's the supplement that combines probiotics with YuCare's unique ActiveBio complex - developed to support the natural balance of your dog's digestive system. Science-backed, these ingredients top up 'good bacteria' to keep their tummy feeling good. It's a daily complex that is ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies - to help them have a good day, every day.

Customer review: "I must say I’m always a bit sceptical when buying remedies etc. as I’m sure some people would feel they benefit from placebos. However... these are doing wonders for my dog and for our noses. My rescue has an extremely sensitive belly caused by eating rubbish on the streets. He is intolerant of many foods and has the smelliest bum ever…..until now. I saw definite benefits from these within 3 days and he takes them like treats (although I think they smell of vomit). I will be buying these again."

Pros

  • Ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies
  • Supports digestive health
  • Tops up good bacteria and blocks bad

Cons

  • Tablets are a little harder for your dog to take
IngredientsProbiotic E. faecium, MOS and Beta-glucans, ScFOS
Quantity120 or 300
PreparationTablets
AgeFrom three months of age and older
SizeAll Sizes
DosageSmall Dogs - 1, Medium Dogs - 2, Large Dogs - 3 & Very Large Dogs - 4 Tablets

Skin and coat

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 Pooch & Mutt. 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 food for itchy skin and 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.

Best dog omega-3 supplement

Ethically sourced and with no natural additives, this sustainable Pets Purest Natural Scottish Salmon Oil comes with powerful antioxidant properties - along with a rich source of Omega-3 which is essential for a dog to maintain its lovely coat and keep its skin healthy. Plus, the Omega-3 fatty acids are proven to stop skin allergies in their tracks. Not only that, but your dog will start to feel like itself again which reduces inflammation in the hip and joints.

Customer review: "My pup has this salmon oil in the morning with her breakfast and she must love the taste and smell because she never turns her nose up at it and eats her breakfast. Her fur feels amazing from this product as well as the skin and coat treats. Definitely have noticed a difference since using Pets Purest products. Would highly recommend this salmon oil and Pets Purest."

Pros

  • Natural and pure
  • Easy to use
  • Healthy supplement

Cons

  • Takes a while to see the benefits
IngredientsSalmon Oil, Antioxidants
Quantity500, 1000 or 2500 ml
PreparationOil
AgeAfter 6-8 weeks
SizeAny Size
DosageXS is 0.5-1, Small is 1-2, Medium is 2-5, Large is 5-8 and XL is 8-10 pumps

Best dog supplements for skin and coat

Perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and allergies, consider the Pooch + Mutt Skin and Coat Probiotic Meaty Treats. Packed with biotin, collage and Omega oils, this treat will play a vital role in your pooch’s skin and coat health, especially if your pup is prone to allergies and itching. Nothing says ‘healthy dog’ like silky, glossy fur. They're made with single protein source herring, which is easily digestible and rich in essential fatty acids - plus collagen and biotin!

Customer review: "Our 12-year-old dog loves them and there is certainly a difference in her coat, much softer."

Pros

  • Contains probiotics to aid digestion
  • Omega, 3, 6 and 9 for skin and coat health
  • Hypoallergenic and puppy-friendly

Cons

  • Rich, give in moderation
IngredientsShrimp protein (26%), pea flour, glycerin, hydrolyzed chicken protein (10%), collagen (8%), red lentils, pumpkin, hydrolyzed chicken liver (5%), dried coconut (2%), flaxseed (2%), dried algae (1%), fulvic acid (0.5%), cantaloupe melon extract (0.01%), Lactobacillus acidophilus HA – 122 inactivated (15x109 cells/kg).
Quantity120g
PreparationTreats
AgeAll Life Stages
SizeAll Sizes
DosageGive in moderation

Anxiety relief

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 Pooch & Mutt 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 calming plug-ins 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…

Best dog calming supplement

YuMove Calming Care for Adult Dogs
Price: $36.66

Lintbells is well-known for its YuMOVE supplements, so there's no surprise that its calming care supplements have taken place as a great anti-anxiety product for your pet. Containing L-theanine, B vitamins, natural fish protein hydrolysate and lemon balm, YuMOVE Calming Care for Adult Dogs will be sure to soothe your pooch. Plus, there are some supplements available for our feline friends, too. Support your pooch's relaxation with this recipe.

Customer review: “He sleeps deeper and for longer. He - mostly - ignores door knocking and visitors now. He is so much less jumpy we can finally relax when walking him. He has also found his playful-ness again; often found playing, digging, burying, shredding, rolling and wriggling around, calling out his "play" bark. This contains no synthetic drugs, just natural ingredients (think of human vitamin tablets or Omega oil supplements).”

Pros

  • Recommended by animal behaviourists and vets
  • Only need to give your pooch one a day
  • Your dog will be far more relaxed and find playfulness again

Cons

  • Not a quick fix - takes a few weeks to work
IngredientsLemon Balm, L-Tryptophan, B vitamins, GABA and L-Arginine, Fish protein hydrolysate
Quantity60 or 120
PreparationTablets
AgeSuitable for dogs of any age
SizeAll Sizes
DosageXS Dog is 1/2, Small Dog is 1, Medium dog is 2, Large dog is 3, XL dog is 4 tablets

Best treat supplement for anxious dogs

Meet the Pooch + Mutt Hemp Chews: delectable, vet-developed, THC-free supplements designed to enhance your dog's well-being. Packed with natural ingredients, these bite-sized wonders support optimal canine health. With a robust 6 per cent Hemp content, they reduce stress and inflammation safely. L-tryptophan elevates serotonin, regulating mood and sleep. Plus, 5 per cent collagen promotes skin, bone, and joint health, ensuring uninterrupted playtime.

Customer review: "Spartan loves these chews. They do exactly what they say on the box and keep him nice and chilled as he’s still a very excited puppy!"

Pros

  • Grain-free and calming
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Tasty, chewable tablets

Cons

  • May not work for all dogs
IngredientsHemp, Chicken, L-Tryptophan, Omega 3, Collagen
Quantity90 or 150g
PreparationTreats
AgeAll Ages
SizeAll Sizes, See Below
Dosage1 chewy per day, per 4 kg bodyweight. If feeding more than one chewy per day, these should be spread out across the day.

Overall health

Supplements, for both humans and pets, showcase vast diversity in effectiveness and the scientific support behind various ingredients and products, says dog health brand YuMove. 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?

Best dog multivitamin supplement

YuCARE MultiVits for Adult Dogs are 6-in-1 multivitamins designed to promote everyday wellness in adult dogs. Sounds perfect. This formula directly targets specific areas of the body with a powerful blend of natural ingredients. These include Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamins C and E, B Vitamins, Zinc and MOS and FOS prebiotics. Together, they work hard to promote a pup that’s happy and healthy! All this in a delicious chewy bite your dog will love.

Customer Review: "Great product and price. Best for my dog."

Pros

  • Promotes general wellbeing
  • 6-in-1 multivitamin
  • Easy - with a soft bite chew

Cons

  • May not be liked by all dogs
IngredientsFOS and MOS, Salmon Oil, Green Lipped Mussel, Glucosamine HCl, Lecithin, Fish Oil, Yeast Extract, Beta-glucans, Yucca Schidigera, DHA Powder, Zooplankton Powder, Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Natural Antioxidant, Biotin, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin B9, Vitamin B12, Brewer's Yeast, Cane Molasses, Potato Flour, Glycerin, Rice Flour, Vegetable Oil, Salt, Preservatives.
Quantity120
PreparationSoft Chews
AgeAdult Dogs
SizeAny Size
DosageSmall Dogs - 1, Medium Dogs - 2, Large Dogs - 3 and Very Large Dogs - 4 Bites.

Hayfever

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 Pooch & Mutt 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:

Best supplement for dog hayfever and allergies

Designed to lessen symptoms such as itching and hot inflamed skin, this 100% natural Pets Purest Allergy + Itch Drops will offer fast and effective relief for your dog by inhibiting histamine release in the body. This natural formulation contains Ginkgo - known as a natural anti-inflammatory, Skullcap - which inhibits histamine release and Nettle - which reduces allergy symptoms. Simply add to food, water or directly into your pet’s mouth. It couldn’t be easier to use.

Customer review: "My dogs, who suffer seasonal allergies to dust, pollen and grass have stopped itching after having a drop in each meal. Long may it last."

Pros

  • Can be used on dogs and cats
  • Long-lasting pack for allergy season
  • Natural and non-drowsy

Cons

  • The bottle will get used up more quickly on larger dogs
  • Not suitable for pregnant or lactating animals
IngredientsSkullcap, Ginkgo, Nettle
Quantity50ml
PreparationLiquid
AgeFrom eight weeks
SizeAll Sizes
Dosage3 drops per 5kg of body weight

Best dog shampoo for itchy skin

TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Dog Shampoo for Pets - Allergies & Itching - Soothing Relief and Deep Clean for Itchy Skin, Flaking, Scaling, Seborrhea, Hot...

Rrp: $20.39

Price: $16.99
Alternative retailers
Petco$16.99View offer
Blain Farm & Fleet$16.99View offer
PetSmart$16.99View offer
Walmart$18.12View offer

Paraben, dye and fragrance-free, this hypoallergenic TropiClean OxyMed Medicated Dog Shampoo provides fast-acting aid from itching for pets with allergies and sensitive skin. This shampoo acts as quick allergy relief, soothing dry, itchy, irritated and inflamed skin. Your pooch will feel all the better with this shampoo. Though scented, it's a safe solution and gently cleanses without washing away any spot-on treatment, whilst nourishing the skin and coat. Soothing!

Customer review: "My dog had been suffering with an itchy red tummy area, constantly biting; I'd tried all sorts - then, saw this. After the first wash, it was a lot calmer and by the second wash, it was gone! I won’t ever change her shampoo."

Pros

  • Fast-acting allergy relief
  • Cleanses, moisturises and soothes
  • Paraben and dye-free formula

Cons

  • May not help all dogs - they may need something stronger!
IngredientsPurified Water, Mild Coconut Cleanser, Beta Hydroxy, Sodium Chloride, Colloidal Oatmeal, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Vitamin E, Aloe, Yucca, Tea Tree Oil, Alpha Hydroxy, Propylene Glycol, Fragrance, Preservative
Quantity592ml
PreparationShampoo
AgeAll Ages
SizeAll Sizes - You may need another bottle for giant breeds!
DosageGenerous Amount

Travel sickness

Though a fun experience, if you don't have the right 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 PDSA recommends 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 travel sickness remedies for your dog to take for a spin:

Best travel sickness remedies for dogs

Perfect for the first aid kit, the Pets Purest Calming Bundle comes equipped to help calm your nervous pet. The Calming Aid Drops are packed with botanical herbs, acting fast and lasting long when it comes to calming down your pet. As for the treats, they contain fresh protein, active ingredients and botanicals for stress, anxiety and digestion.

Customer review: "This product kept my dogs safe and stress-free. I even gave the neighbour's dog some to as she was really stressed. Highly recommended."

Pros

  • Helps reduce stress and anxiety
  • Two preparations for food and travel
  • Prevents destructive behaviour

Cons

  • A few customers did not see many improvements
IngredientsLavender, Camomile and Probiotics
Quantity50 ml / 3 x 70g
PreparationDrops / Treats
AgeAdult Pets
SizeAll Sizes
Dosage4 Drops per 5kg / In Moderation

Homeopathic alternative

The HomeoPet Anxiety Homeopathic Remedy contains a precise blend of natural organic ingredients, which will help your pet out in stressful situations. Choose between Anxiety, Travel and Firework Blends. The Travel Anxiety Blend provides fast, non-sedative relief for motion sickness, and fear of travel in cars, boats, trains, and aeroplanes.

Customer review: "Seems to work a treat. We had a very travel-sick puppy, who just got more anxious by the minute. Not any more, she's calm and happy to travel."

Pros

  • Suitable for cats, dogs, rabbits and budgies
  • Precise blend of natural ingredients
  • Perfect for tackling symptoms

Cons

  • A few customers have not seen any improvement
IngredientsPassiflora, Valeriana
Quantity15 ml
PreparationLiquid Drops
AgeMost Pets of All Life Stages
SizeN/A
DosageOne dose three times daily 5-7 days before long journeys. Long term use, reduce to dosing twice daily then once. One off doses should be 30 minutes before travelling.

DNA test kits

A dog’s health isn’t just down to genetics, says Embark Vet, 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.

Best dog DNA test kit

Embark Dog DNA Test, Breed + Health Kit

Rrp: $149.00

Price: $127.00
Alternative retailers
Petco$127.00View offer
PetSmart$127.00View offer

For this, we present the Embark Dog DNA Test, Breed + Health Kit. This doggie DNA kit is the best on the market. Garnering excellent reviews across the globe, Embark has decked out its test kits to cover health, as well as breed. Embark's panel tests more than 200 health risks and even provides the next steps to help your pooch. Embark tests over 220,000 genetic markets and screens for more than 350 breeds. Discover relatives, traits and more with Embark.

Customer review: "We live in London and got this to test our dog. It's super easy to swab your dog (just a little earbud swab that goes under their mouth flaps to get saliva). Because Embark is based in America you can't use their pre-paid bag to ship the sample back to their lab, but you can use the bag as a bag for shipping. We just went into the Royal Mail post office and paid for it to be shipped over so they slapped a label on the bag for us. I think it was like £10? On the shipping label, we just wrote "dog DNA sample.

"It took a while to get there (maybe 2 weeks?) but eventually, we got an email saying they had received it and were shipping it to their processing lab. Then we waited just under a week and got an email saying it was processing. And then around the 4-week mark, we got the results. Really pleased with the communication from Embark! We wish the results were a bit more exciting but it was a fun experience!"

Pros

  • Tests for 350+ Breeds
  • Offers full and raw data
  • Provides genetic age estimate

Cons

  • Results can be a little complicated
  • Hundreds of actionable health insights
  • Breed ID that's twice as presice
  • Highest rated and most trusted
  • Disocver relative, traits and more
  • Excellent service and fast results

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 YuCare Multivitamins for Adult Dogs is a great all-rounder.

Dog supplement guide

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.

Consult your vet!

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.

Understand your dog’s diet

Next, with your vet, take a close look at your dog's diet to identify any nutritional gaps. Which dog food brand 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.

Commonly recommended supplements

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.

Special considerations

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.

Dosages and Safety

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.

FAQs

Does my dog need supplements?

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.
However, homemade food needs to include a wide variety of chow to cater to your dog’s needs. You need to include foods rich in vitamins, Omega 3 and 6, calcium, probiotics, glucosamine, fibre, iron and B vitamins. Supplementing a balanced, homemade diet with pills isn't needed, if the diet is done well - and under vet supervision.

Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Take a Break, specialising in pet health. When she’s not barking about dog supplements, she’s online devouring cat content.

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