There are dog vitamins and supplements from A to Z but how do you know which, if any, are the best dog vitamins for your precious pet?
“What I tell a lot of owners is that most dogs don’t need basic general multivitamins,” says Maryanne Murphy, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN, a board certified veterinary nutritionist and clinical assistant professor of nutrition at University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville. Generally, she says, a commercially manufactured pet food should meet their daily nutrient needs. “But specific, targeted supplements for conditions have a purpose.”
Reasons for taking a dog supplement vary depending on the pet’s condition. Arthritic dogs, for example, may benefit from a supplement that maintains joint function, and dogs with digestive issues may benefit from a supplement that supports gut health.
No matter the reason, the vets we spoke with recommend you look for products with a National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal. This certification helps ensure that a product comes from a reputable company that has achieved compliance with NASC’s quality standards. And always consult with your veterinarian before adding any new vitamins or supplements to your dog’s diet. They can make a recommendation based on their knowledge of your dog’s current diet and health history, or refer you to a clinical nutritionist or integrative veterinarian to help you build a custom diet plan that fits your individual pup’s exact needs. At the end of the day, you want to make sure your dog is getting just the right balance of all the vitamins and nutrients they need—and none they don’t.
“It’s really important to buy supplements either under the guidance and recommendation of a healthcare provider like your veterinarian or from a trusted resource, from a company that you know is honorable and that does quality control on their products,” says Jonathan S. Block, DVM CVA CCRT, owner of West Delray Veterinary in Delray Beach, Florida.
To get you started in your search for the best dog vitamins and supplements for your pet, here are some options to talk to your veterinarian about.
Dog Multivitamin
Rx Vitamins Essentials Vitamin
Dog Supplements
Below are common types of dog supplements. Talk to your vet about what, if any, may benefit your dog. Be sure to let them know if you dog is currently taking any other supplements or medications. And always be sure to stick to the recommended dosages.
Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs
Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews
Older pups or dogs who are experiencing the first signs of arthritis may benefit from a hip and joint supplement. Dr. Block generally recommends Nutramax for their pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and research-backed products. This soft chew from Nutramax is formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin and ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, a fancy name for an extract made from avocado and soybean oils)—three ingredients commonly found in the best joint supplement for dogs. Nutramax claims this supplement not only helps block enzymes that break down cartilage, but also helps with the repair and regeneration of new cartilage.
Digestive Health Supplement for Dogs
Nutramax Proviable DC Capsules
Anxiety Supplement for Dogs
Vetriscience Composure Behavioral Helath Bite-Sized Dog Chews
Liver Supplement for Dogs
Nutramax Denamarin Tablets for Large Dogs
Urinary & Kidney Supplement for Dogs
Nutramax Crananidin Chewable Tablets Dog Supplement
Skin & Coat Supplements for Dogs
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Soft Gels Dog Supplement
Dental Supplement for Dogs
Virbac C.E.T. VeggieDent Fr3sh Tartar Control Dog Chews
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