Just like humans, dogs too need supplements to get the exact amount of nutrients in their system. Many dog owners fail to realize that all dog foods are not created equally, hence their nutritional values vary. Many dog food recipes leave out a lot of necessary nutrients. Just like human beings take supplements when foods fail to provide the amount that is needed, sometimes, dogs need to take them too. However, do not give supplements to your pup without consulting a vet first. It is extremely important to get your dog checked and if the vet refers supplements, follow the prescription diligently. Here are the top 10 necessary supplements for dogs:
1. Fish Oil
This is one of the most popular supplements for pets. This is most commonly used to treat canine skin allergies. Fish oil can help in improving the coat quality of dogs. To reduce itching, it can also help in reducing the dosage of steroid medications. Fish oil is also sometimes used to help treat arthritis in dogs. A Doberman Pinscher can be given fish oil supplements to improve their coat, skin, and immune system.
2. Glucosamine
It is the biggest name in the veterinary supplement world. It is usually sold alone but sometimes, it is combined with MSM, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel extract, and other ingredients. Loss of glucosamine can lead to stiff joints and decreased mobility, leading to arthritis. Glucosamine can also help in treating osteoarthritis in dogs. Glucosamine supplements are sometimes recommended by vets for Siberian Huskies and St. Bernards.
3. Multivitamins
Multivitamins can help in boosting your dog’s energy level, improve coat and skin health, regulate your dog’s digestion, and strengthen its immunity. Multivitamins basically work as a preventative health measure. Visit your vet before you decide to administer multivitamin supplements in your dog. If your dog doesn’t have a vitamin deficiency, giving multivitamins to him can prove to be fatal as it will lead to vitamin toxicity.
4. Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that mostly live in the digestive tract of your dog. If those beneficial bacteria become overrun by harmful bacteria, it can lead to unwanted problems in your dog like infection, inflammation, an upset stomach, and other allergic reactions. Probiotic supplements can help maintain the optimal good and bad bacteria balance in your dog when the time calls for it.
5. Milk thistle
Milk thistle is a herbal product that has been widely recommended and used. Milk thistle has a compound known as silymarin. It helps in preventing inflammation and the metabolism of some chemicals into toxins in the liver. Milk thistle may also help in protecting your dog’s kidneys from toxins.
6. Lysine
Lysine is an amino acid whose deficiency can increase the risk of various types of infections in your canine. If your dog lacks enough lysine, the biosynthesis of protein and calcium absorption will not happen. Hence, it can be said that the benefits of calcium and protein go hand in hand with Lysine.
7. Digestive Enzymes
It goes without saying that digestive enzymes help a lot in proper digestion. Lack of any digestive enzyme can create nutritional deficiencies and very specific health problems. You should particularly look for supplements that have natural digestive enzymes. The most beneficial types of digestive enzymes are amylase, protease, lipase, and cellulose. These help to break down carbohydrates, proteins, fibre, and fat.
8. S-adenosyl methionine (SAM-e)
S-adenosyl methionine is mostly used in combination with Milk Thistle. It is used to protect the liver from various toxins. S-adenosyl methionine is also used to prevent arthritis. This also helps in supporting liver metabolic activity in your dog. Many big dogs are at a greater risk of suffering from joint problems as their joints have to support all that weight. If SAM-e is lacking in their system, it could pose to be a threat.
9. Azodyl
Azodyl is a mixture of probiotics (good bacteria) and prebiotics (substances that promote the growth of beneficial gastrointestinal bacteria). It helps in treating kidney failure in dogs. It also supports kidney functions and helps in keeping it healthy.
10.Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is also known as ubiquinone. It helps in preventing and sometimes treating cardiovascular diseases in dogs. It is a type of antioxidant supplement. It is mostly used for dogs who are 6+ years of age. Coenzyme Q10 is a compound that is naturally produced in the body. In case of deficiencies, supplements need to be taken as it is used for cell growth and is used to protect cells from damage.
Conclusion
Just like human beings, dogs also need to take supplements sometimes. Whether or not your dog requires it, should be left to the expertise of a vet. Keep your dog happy with the diet that the vet has planned for him. In case of deficiencies, refer to the supplements that the doctor suggests and administer them accordingly.
