Some of the biggest decisions we make as dog owners revolve around our pet’s health. This includes when to use, and how to choose supplements for dogs. We do our best to understand what's happening on the inside, based on what we can see on the outside.
We all know that what we eat when the balance is right, gives us the energy we need to lead a healthy lifestyle. The same logic applies to our dogs, celebrity vet Paul Manktelow tells us.
“Good nutrition is one of the keys to a healthy lifestyle for dogs. But with so many different diets on the market and so much conflicting advice, it's very difficult for dog owners to be sure they've picked the right diet."
“Plus, dogs who are very active often have very different nutritional demands, so standard feeding instructions may not be providing all the micronutrients that your dog needs.”
What you need to know about dog vitamins
Vitamins are essential for dogs because even small nutrient deficiencies can cause issues with mobility, skin conditions, and even behavior.
Paul tells us, “Owners might want to check their favorite pet store for a highly rated multivitamin supplement such as the ultimate pet nutrition as a means to help safeguard a dog’s diet to help them remain healthy. This is particularly important in dogs with high exercise levels since their bodies may require some nutrients in different quantities than less active dogs.
“As with humans, giving nutritional supplements to dogs can support a healthy diet and give owners peace of mind that their pet's nutritional needs are being met.”
Here are 4 vitamins you should know about – and why
Vitamin A
This is a great vitamin because it helps to support growth.
All dogs will benefit from this vitamin’s nutritional support to the internal organs (liver, lungs, and kidneys, for example), skin, and coat.
Vitamin B-Complex
Vitamin B-Complex combines many different types of Vitamin B, such as Thiamin, Biotin, and Riboflavin.
There are many benefits to combining B vitamins for all-around health. For example, vets will sometimes recommend after a dog has had a course of antibiotics.
Generally, though, having a good balance of B vitamins helps maintain a dog’s muscle and nerve functions. Effective levels may also help a dog's temperament.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids help to keep a dog's coat glossy and skin healthy. Young dogs particularly benefit while they’re developing too.
Vegetable oils, such as linseed oil, or cold oils, such as fish oils, are great sources.
L-carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid that the dog’s body uses to turn fat into energy, so it’s essential for a healthy lifestyle.
Dogs do produce L-carnitine naturally but in cases where there is a deficiency, some of the most common signs can be muscle weakness, an unwillingness to exercise, and even heart problems, so dogs must have enough nutrients from fatty acids in their diet to create the energy needed.
Knowing more about vitamin supplements and what’s available, you can easily decide what’s right for your dog, but as always, check with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to your dog’s diet.
