The market is currently inundated with fashionable puppy vitamins. While some of these vitamins will help your dog's growth, others are completely unnecessary. When combined with a healthy diet -- and healthy owner skepticism -- puppy vitamins can be very helpful.
The Facts Behind Vitamins
Even if you provide your dog with a balanced diet, puppy vitamins can be a great addition to any diet. This is because, while most dog food brands are formulated to give your dog the recommended daily amount of essential proteins, fiber, and other nutrients, all dogs are different.
The recommended daily amount of nutrients for one dog will vary drastically when it comes to another dog. This is why certain vitamins and supplements should be added to a dog's daily diet.
Vitamins to Consider
Almost all dogs can benefit from a great daily multivitamin. This vitamin should contain Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and B Vitamin Complex. Daily puppy vitamins can be easily added to your dog's routine.
At the age of three, dogs can start to take glucosamine supplements. Dogs should also be given fish oil at age three, though this should not be refined fish oil. In addition to those vitamins that are good for your dog, there are some things that should be avoided as well.
What to Avoid
Vitamins and nutrients that should not be given to puppies include Vitamin C (this vitamin is largely debated) and calcium (dogs do not need an extra dose of calcium in most cases). When choosing the right vitamins, make sure to look closely at the ingredient label.
Some puppy vitamins include tar, lacquers, and lead -- none of these things should be given to your dog. By carefully reading each ingredient list, you can avoid these harmful additives. Only purchase vitamins that are derived from natural sources.