Dog food supplements are not necessary if the dog is in good health and has a diet that contains all the essential nutrients. However, there are a number of conditions that will require supplementation of certain substances. Also, old age will dictate that the dog gets a few supplements that will prevent some old age diseases and improve the dog’s life quality.
1. Glucosamine for Joints
Some dogs are prone to arthritis and joint swelling is a typical old age disease in canines. Glucosamine supplements are ideal to prevent or delay the occurrence of joint and skeletal problems.
However, the supplementation of glucosamine should be done only by a vet, as an excess of glucosamine can cause complications.
2. Chondroitin for Bone Health
Chondroitin is similar to glucosamine and can be supplemented in dogs that are prone to joint swelling or are already affected by arthritis.
3. Probiotics for Digestion
Probiotics, or direct fed microorganisms or DFMs exist in the dog’s organism, but can be supplemented if the dog has problems affecting the digestion and the gastro intestinal tract. The probiotics that are often recommended for dogs include:
- Bifidobacteria
- Bacilli
- Lactic acid bacteria or LAB, such as Lactic acidophilus or Lactic bulgaricus
These microorganisms will reestablish the balance between the good and the bad bacteria in the dog’s organism. In addition, these probiotics will also protect the mucous of the stomach and the intestines.
4. Omega 3 Fatty Acids for the Immune System
The omega 3 fatty acids are essential for the support of the immune system.
The immune system can be weakened by various diseases and the omega 3 fatty acids can be supplemented during the recovery period of the dog or when the dog is affected by a chronic disease.
The immune system support supplements may also be beneficial when the dog is exposed to environments that may contain various viruses and there is a high chance of infection.
5. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is beneficial both for the dog’s skin and can also boost the immune system. Vitamin E may also be applied externally when the vet recommends it for the dog’s skin.
Vitamin E can be supplemented when the dog is affected by a skin infection, allergies or has a disease that leads to the weakening of the immune system.
6. Multivitamins
Multivitamins are recommended in dogs that are older or lack appetite. The multivitamins are an effective method to boost the dog’s appetite, but you should pay attention to the compounds, as certain vitamins such as A and D in excess can be toxic.
7. Minerals
Minerals can be beneficial for weak and senior dogs; however, these should be administered with great caution, as the minerals can be easily deposited in the kidneys or the bladder in the form of stones.
Dogs should only get pet supplements. Human vitamins and other supplements are not suitable. You should always talk to your vet prior to administering a type of supplement in your pet.