It's hard to believe that in just a few short years, America's pet market will reach $62 billion in revenue. That's more than the entire daily economic output of Canada. And dog owners are eagerly joining this trend by spending money on expensive dog food, designer clothes, and even doggy fitness coaches.
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Human beings use vitamins and dietary supplements. However, canine supplements are gaining fame among pet keepers. The most well-known additives are multivitamins for joint support and fatty acids to polish up the coat. Here is a guide of what to give our furry friends and why?
WHY GIVE DOGS SUPPLEMENTS?
Like humans, pets need an extra boost to their nutrition. To know what dogs require in terms of nutrition, always look at the dog's food ingredients. Although Dog food has all the ingredients they need, certain age groups with health issues need more nutrients. Likewise, if you feed your dog with home foods, chances are they missing some nutrients. But before starting any nutritional supplements for dogs, consult your vet.
Sometimes, a pet dietician can help you understand what your dog is feeding on and what it lacks. Note that symptoms treated by supplements can be more serious issues. Additionally, excess certain minerals and vitamins can be harmful to canines causing other health concerns. Therefore, when giving dogs supplements, the aim is to help them, not harm them. Now that you know why supplements are good: here are the best for dogs.
BETA-CAROTENE
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that provides vitamin A to your dog. Vitamin A can be obtained from animal-based foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy products. However, beta-carotene is an organic compound that occurs naturally in plants and deep green vegetables. It turns into vitamin A when consumed by animals. This vitamin is essential for the immune system and healthy vision of dogs. Dogs with a lack of vitamin A may suffer from hypersensitivity, eye hypersensitivity, or blood issues. Beta-carotene also protects against heart disease and cancer by providing antioxidants to the body.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is popular with pet owners because it maintains the immune system, protects against illness, and prevents cancer. It is also an antioxidant that can be found in fruits and vegetables. The recommended daily dosage for dogs should be around 20-30 mg per day. Our pups will also benefit from the antioxidants present in this vitamin as it can reduce inflammatory responses, enhance wound healing, and provide general health benefits. Dogs that are prone to diseases like cancer should take more than the average daily dosage of this vitamin to protect against ailments like tumors or blood vessel damage.
CALCIUM
Calcium is considered one of the most important nutrients for dogs. It is used by them to build healthy bones and teeth. Fractures, arthritis, and other joint problems can also be prevented by giving our dogs calcium. This vitamin can be found in dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, or vegetables. A deficiency of calcium leads to rickets in dogs which causes fragile bones and teeth. Another sign of deficiency is low blood calcium which triggers symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.5-0.6 grams per pound of body weight while adult dogs need around 1 gram per pound of body weight or 1% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
IRON
Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most commonly reported nutritional problems in pets today. This problem is more prevalent in smaller breeds like Yorkies, toy poodles, and bichons. Dogs need dietary iron which comes in various forms like meat, seafood, organs, and dried vegetables. Our pets who are elderly or have intestinal diseases might lack this vital amino acid. As it happens with humans, the deficiency of iron affects our dogs' memory and mental functions. It can also cause intestinal bleeding which may cause anemia itself. If you feed your dog on homemade diets you will need to add iron supplements to the diet because they are frequently lacking in most cooked dog foods.
IODINE
The growth of puppies is often sped up by iodine which is present in milk products. Therefore, dog parents who give their pups milk can speed up their growth rate. Iodine is also a vital nutrient for the thyroid gland which helps control the heart, blood pressure, and metabolism. The recommended daily dosage is 0.04-0.05 mg per pound of body weight for adult dogs while nursing females should receive 0.08-0.1 mg per pound of body weight for a whole year or until weaning occurs or until 3 weeks after birth if a mother dog's diet is supplemented with it during pregnancy. For dogs who have been removed from their mother's diets before three weeks, manufacturers recommend their inclusion in homemade foods to get essential nutrients from it.
KAOPECTATE (PRALLOID)
This is an oral laxative for pets. It works by binding to the ingredients of stools like water, fat, and fiber that are difficult to eliminate through normal elimination processes. It is also used as a treatment for constipation; however, there are certain side effects like vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to consult your vet before giving your pet this medication. For cases where the body is unable to assimilate minerals like calcium or iron, it can be included in dog food or consumed as supplemental form with half the recommended rate.
POTASSIUM
Potassium is an electrolyte mineral that can help maintain proper blood pressure and fluid levels in the body. It also maintains the proper functioning of the kidneys and heart. Potassium is necessary for healthy muscle and nerve function. Dogs who eat a high-protein diet will often have a deficiency of this mineral. Signs of deficiency include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and lack of appetite. Usually, homemade dog food contains more potassium than commercial foods which is why diets like chicken and rice are encouraged for dogs with low potassium levels. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.5-1% while adult dogs need 1%-1.5% of their diet which translates to 0.33-0.5 grams per pound of body weight.
VITAMIN E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps keep the immune system healthy and prevents cell damage due to oxidative stress. Our pets who have been diagnosed with cancer, heart diseases, or neurological disorders should receive this vitamin as it can help lower the adverse effects of those ailments on their health. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that helps prevent cancer cells from growing and spreading which makes it a promising treatment for certain types of cancer. Even though there are no known side effects to giving your dog vitamin E, it is still best to consult a vet before you purchase any vitamin supplements for your pet. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.5-0.6 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 1 mg per pound of body weight or 1% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is an essential mineral for healthy bone growth and can also help maintain normal muscle function. This mineral also maintains the healthy functioning of the heart, nerves, and muscles. Magnesium helps keep bones strong and healthy by preventing bone loss which can lead to fragile teeth, arthritis, or fractures. Dogs who are on chronic medicines may need extra magnesium in their diets to prevent side effects like unsteady gait or tremors. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 1-1.5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need 1-2 mg per pound of body weight or 0.5% to 0.75% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
B-VITAMIN
B-vitamins are essential for the immune system of our dogs. They are also used by the body to convert carbohydrates into energy which is why they are necessary for a healthy metabolism. B vitamins help our pets metabolize protein, fats, and carbohydrates by helping to make them available for us to use. B-vitamins also play a part in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and protein which is why many people with diabetes feed their pets b vitamins since they are necessary for managing this condition. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.05-0.1 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 0.25-0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.01%-0.05% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
VITAMIN K1
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the formation, synthesis, and maintenance of blood clotting factors like prothrombin which help keep our pets' internal organs healthy and non-bleeding. Vitamin K is also needed for normal bone health; therefore, it can be beneficial to our pets who suffer from conditions like osteoporosis or fractures. It can also lower the risk of blood clots that may occur in the heart or elsewhere in the body if they have been taking medications meant to decrease cholesterol levels. It is recommended that a vet prescribe the correct amount of vitamin K1 for your pet to meet his daily requirements. If you wish to find out whether you need to supplement your pet's diet with vitamin K1, a vet can run a blood test for specific markers that may indicate a deficiency of this vitamin. For puppies, the recommended daily dosage is 0.5-0.75 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 1-2 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.02%-0.05% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Manganese
Manganese is a trace mineral that is often overlooked as a supplement for our dogs, but it is very important for them as well. It plays an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress, but it also helps maintain normal brain function. Dogs who are suffering from seizures, have poor bone health or insufficient blood clotting may need extra manganese. This mineral can also help treat arthritis, muscle weakness or pain, or even muscular degeneration which is why doctors may recommend manganese supplements for dogs with these conditions. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.5-1 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 1-2 mg per pound of body weight or 0.02%-0.03% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral that aids in the elimination of harmful metals like lead and cadmium from our pets' bodies. It is also needed for normal growth and development, the immune system, and cell repair functions. Since zinc cannot be stored by your pet's body, supplementation may be necessary to meet his daily requirements. Dogs who are suffering from chronic conditions like arthritis, muscle atrophy, or tumors may need extra zinc as it can help restore their health and function again. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 2-5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need 5-10 mg per pound of body weight or 0.05%-1% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace mineral that helps manage blood glucose levels in our pets and humans alike. It can also reduce insulin resistance, which means it can help control the symptoms of diabetes in dogs like increasing stamina, weight loss, and increased energy. This mineral also helps maintain normal protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism in dogs by helping with gluconeogenesis which is the process in which glucose is produced for energy when carbohydrates are not available in the diet. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.5-0.75 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 1-2 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.02%-0.03% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice used in many types of products for human consumption, but it can also be used to supplement our pets' diets. Cinnamon helps increase the movement speed of our pets while also increasing their sensitivity to insulin which can help manage blood glucose levels in dogs with diabetes or low blood sugar levels. Cinnamon has the added benefit of contributing to normal heart health by decreasing blood clotting time and lowering cholesterol levels, offering protection against cardiovascular disease and stroke. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.2-0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 0.5-1 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.01%-0.02% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice used in many types of products for human consumption, but it can also be used to supplement our pets' diets. Ginger helps regulate blood sugar levels in dogs suffering from diabetes by helping to control insulin secretion while also improving the absorption of other nutrients like carbohydrates and fats in their bodies which can help manage their glucose levels and weight loss. Ginger also helps with reducing inflammation in the body which can help control conditions like arthritis. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.2-0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 0.5-1 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.01%-0.02% of the diet if feeding homemade food
Mint
Mint is a popular spice used in many types of products for human consumption, but it can also be used to supplement our pets' diets. Mint helps fight a number of ailments in dogs by reducing inflammation, reducing muscle stiffness and pain, and decreasing the need for pain medications. Mint also helps with regulating blood glucose levels in dogs with diabetes or low blood sugar levels. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.2-0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 0.5-1 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.01%-0.02% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
If you have a pet at home, then you will know that they require a great deal of attention and daily care to remain healthy. This includes proper food and water as well as supplements to keep them fit and active throughout their life. Dogs require a host of supplements to maintain their health from day one, but as they grow older, they will need more specific supplements to ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs. Fortunately, there are a number of vitamins and minerals your dog may benefit from as he ages that can help him live a long, healthy life. If you have any questions about whether your dog would benefit from supplementation or not, please contact your local veterinarian for advice today.
Vitamins For Dogs
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is the one vitamin that dogs need to receive at least twice per week in order to maintain their eyesight and overall health. Dogs need vitamin A for their eyes, which are nothing more than single-cell organisms that must be able to see in order to be able to function properly. Vitamin A keeps these cells healthy and functioning correctly by helping them stay alert as well as maintaining a healthy appetite as needed. In addition, vitamin A is needed for the normal development of bones and teeth as well as for cell growth and reproduction, especially in immature dogs who have not yet reached puberty.
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and works best when it is taken as a supplement, rather than as a food. However, dogs can receive it from their diet in the form of organ meats like lamb's liver or beef's kidney. You can also try feeding your dog liver or heart muscle supplements to take advantage of these two animal sources of vitamin A. When choosing an organ meat supplement for your dog, ideally you should choose one that does not contain pork by-products since they are contaminated with the same meat by-products that are used in some dog foods (though not all).
Vitamin D
Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium by the body, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. Our dogs are unable to make vitamin D on their own since they cannot produce it within their bodies. Notably, many dogs are unable to absorb enough vitamin D through their diet alone since it is naturally present in very few foods including fatty fish oil supplements, fermented cod liver oil, egg yolks, and some types of mushrooms. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteoporosis or calcium deficiency that could lead to bone disease or other disorders associated with skeletal growth issues. In order to ensure your dog is getting enough vitamin D each day, simply make sure you are giving him a high-quality dog food that contains no meat by-products and also give him a vitamin D supplement twice per week.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E helps maintain healthy skin and coat in dogs. This vitamin is an antioxidant that helps prevent free radicals from aging the cells of the body which can otherwise lead to cancer, harmful bodily changes, and poor immune function. Vitamin E also strengthens cell walls as well as promotes red blood production which can help your pet fight off diseases like anemia as well as offering protection against heart disease and stroke. The recommended daily dosage for puppies is 0.2-0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight while adult dogs need around 0.5-1 mg per pound of bodyweight or 0.01%-0.02% of the diet if feeding homemade food.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for the normal clotting process by helping to create critical proteins that are needed to stop bleeding when they are needed most. Without enough vitamin K, your dog may lack the ability to heal injuries or wounds since he doesn't have access to proper blood clotting or blood vessel repair capabilities that will be necessary for the healing process to occur at all. In addition, having too much vitamin K can actually be toxic to the body which is why it is important to keep your dog's dosage at the recommended amount in order to prevent any complications in the future.
Vitamin K is mainly found in leafy green vegetables like broccoli or in fermented cabbage juice. A portion of good dog food will also contain some vitamin K supplements in order to ensure your dog receives an adequate amount of this essential nutrient. If you are unsure of whether or not your current dog food contains sufficient amounts of vitamin K, it would be best to give him a vitamin K supplement twice per week in order to ensure proper supplementation.
Calcium
Calcium is needed for bone and tooth growth as well as for muscle function. It is also required for the proper development of the cardiovascular, nervous, muscle, and immune systems. Calcium is absorbed into the body more readily when paired with vitamin D but can be found in some dog foods on its own as well. If your dog's diet is lacking in calcium or if he has trouble absorbing it, then you can simply give him a calcium supplement once per week to help him meet his nutritional needs.
Magnesium
Magnesium is necessary for proper nerve functionality including muscle contractions, heart rhythm, and blood clotting. Dogs are unable to produce sufficient magnesium on their own so you will need to give him a supplement each day in order for him to receive enough of this vital nutrient.
Magnesium is found in some plants, seafood, and grasses. High-quality dog foods will typically contain none of these but are also unlikely to have any added supplemental forms of magnesium that you can use to supply your dog's needs. If your dog lacks this mineral, then he may be able to find it in some high-quality dog foods including salmon oil, taurine, or naturally occurring naturally packaged vitamins with magnesium as one of the main ingredients.
Selenium
Selenium is essential for antioxidant function in the body and helps to protect against free radical damage that can lead to chronic diseases, cancer, and other health conditions. Dogs are unable to produce selenium on their own so you will need to get it from your dog's diet by supplementing him with high-quality dog food or supplement containing selenium once per week.
Folic Acid or Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Folic acid is also known as folate because it is a molecule that is made up of four amino acids linked together. This molecule plays an essential role in cell metabolism including DNA repair, amino acid production, and red blood cell formation. Vitamin B9 (folate) is the most commonly used form of dietary folate and is essential for sperm production, cell division, the production of red blood cells, and liver function.
Most dogs cannot produce enough folate on their own so you will need to give them this nutrient via food or supplement once per week. High-quality dog foods usually contain some supplemental folate in order to ensure that your dog is getting adequate dietary levels of it.