Dog supplements: how they work

What are dog supplements?

Dog supplements are the addition of a vitamin, mineral, or nutrient to a dog’s diet, usually used when a particular nutrient is lacking. While many of us take human supplements every day, you may not be as aware about supplements for your dog.

How can supplements be supplied?

Dog supplements can be supplied in a range of forms, including pills, powders, liquids, and chews, depending on the supplement. The supplement you choose or are recommended to give your dog depends on its intended function in your dog’s body. For example, powder supplements are ideal for mixing with food to provide the nutrients that encourage healthy joints, coat, and skin for your canine friend.

How might supplements help my dog?

Supplements can help dogs in a variety of ways, which all comes down to the supplement and individual need of the animal. There are dog supplements available to help with kidneys and urinary problems. Some supplements address specific symptoms, while others make up for a natural lack of certain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

How can stress and anxiety supplements benefit my dog?

Some dog supplements can help to reduce anxiety and stress in dogs by supporting healthy levels of serotonin, which is a chemical in the brain that regulates mood. These kinds of supplements can also improve quality of sleep by reducing levels of cortisol, the stress hormone that can disrupt restful sleep.

How might joint supplements help my dog?

Supplements for your dog’s mobility and joints can help with stiffness and the management of joint pain. They work to help keep your dog active and moving, aiding flexibility and combatting joint stiffness. Joint supplements are often given to senior dogs with arthritis to help to reduce inflammation and pain, while improving mobility, to maximise your older dog’s quality of life.

How can nervous system and brain function supplements help my dog?

Brain function and nervous system supplements, sometimes referred to as ‘smart supplements’, are designed to improve cognitive function and support the nervous system. Like joint and mobility supplements, they can support senior dogs whose behaviours change as they get older and who suffer from disturbed sleep and other conditions. Cognitive supplements can also benefit younger dogs who are in the early stages of life and training.

How can hair and skin supplements help my dog?

A dog’s coat and skin are of paramount importance to their overarching health, with a shiny coat a great sign of good overall health. Skin, hair, and coat supplements can help dogs absorb nutrients into their bodies more easily, which can contribute to shiny, vibrant fur and healthy skin. Some dogs suffer from dry skin, which can be caused by humidity, sun exposure, and ageing, and skin supplements can help with this.

How might liver supplements help my dog?

Liver supplements for dogs contain antioxidants, important for maintaining a healthy liver. Liver function is vital for dogs, helping with blood clotting, digestion, and toxin removal, while poor liver function in dogs can lead to sickness. Liver supplements can be administered whole or mixed with or sprinkled over food.

How can probiotic and prebiotic supplements help my dog?

Probiotic and prebiotic supplements for dogs help to restore and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. This can help with a range of health concerns, such as coat and skin health, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal problems. Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that boost the gut microbiome and help with digestion and nutrient absorption, while prebiotics serve as fuel for these beneficial bacteria.

Conclusion

If you think your dog needs a particular supplement, the best thing to do is to speak to your vet for advice and ask them any questions you might have about the different options available. We stock a wide range of dog supplements in our Pharmacy2U Pet Health shop.

Always seek advice from a professional before introducing any new supplements or making significant changes to your dog’s diet, and they should be able to provide bespoke recommendations based on your dog’s breed, size, age, health conditions, and any existing medication.