Our furry friends need essential nutrients in order to function well as they go about their day-to-day activities. Good thing there are dog supplements that could help us nourish our pups so they will have a better and longer life.
With so many dog supplements available on the market today, it’s good to know the top 5 vitamins and minerals that your pooch exactly need.
Here they are:
1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
Just like humans, cats and dogs also need these essential fatty acids in their bodies.
EPA and DHA omega 3 fatty acids are powerful brain enhancers. With this supplement, you can help improve your dog’s cognition, memory, and learning.
These fatty acids are usually sourced from algae and fish oils. They are essential in keeping a clear eyesight. They are also effective in calming the nerves and fighting off inflammation.
Also, if your pooch suffers from skin conditions, allergies, and arthritis, this is the best supplement to buy.
2. Glucosamine.
Perhaps, you’ve already heard about glucosamine and how it works wonders in the body.
With so many products offered and advertised, it’s always important to know which brands are reliable and authentic. When choosing a glucosamine supplement for your dog, make sure it bears the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) logo.
Before giving your pet any supplement, it is highly recommended to consult your vet first. Make sure your dog isn’t allergic to any of the ingredients in the supplement. Veterinary grade glucosamine is effective in most dogs and cats.
3. Probiotics.
According to the multiple studies conducted by Harvard scientists, probiotics have positive health effects in animals as well as humans. It improves immunity and digestive health while fighting off various diseases.
If your pooch has GI issues, undergoing anesthesia, or simply stressed, probiotics can help.
Just make sure to buy the whole food or veterinary formulated probiotics for dogs to enjoy maximum health benefits.
4. S-adenosylmethionine or SAMe.
This supplement has anti-inflammatory properties that help dogs with arthritis, cognitive decline, and liver disease. Veterinarians sometimes use it to treat behavioral conditions in animals.
SAMe is best for senior dogs with ailing memory, toxin exposure, and liver problems. However, it’s highly advised to use only veterinary formulations in order to get the most benefits.
5. L-carnitine.
If your dog needs to lose weight for health reasons, l-carnitine is the ideal supplement. It supports mental function and reduces heart risks with proper dosing.
Daily dosage may be given between 100 milligrams up to two grams.
Before giving your dog this supplement, it’s safe to consult your vet first.
If your pooch has hypothyroidism, it can worsen thyroid function. But if you’re treating your dog for obesity, you can combine it with taurine, coenzyme Q10, and omega 3 fatty acids.
There are other supplements you can give your dog based on his specific nutritional needs. Each supplement has particular properties that help your pooch remain healthy and strong as he grows.
Medicinal mushrooms, B vitamins, and turmeric are only some of the common supplements pet parents use today.