Does Your Dog Need Additional Supplements? Vets Say It Might Be Time to Rethink Their Diet

Your dog isn’t just a pet, they’re a much-loved member of the family, often treated like royalty. So, it’s only natural that you want to give them everything they need for a long, happy and healthy life. But are they getting enough nutrients from their food? If your dog’s food comes straight from a bag of kibble, they might be lacking the nutrients they need. While adding fish and salmon oil to their diet is a good place to start, more than half of dog owners are now turning to vitamins and supplements to boost their dogs’ long-term health. But does your dog really need additional supplements? Vets and pet health experts are increasingly saying yes, especially as we better understand the effects of diet, age, and environment on canine wellness.

What Are Dog Supplements And How Do They Work?

Just like the supplements we take, these health boosters can also help your dog by reducing joint stiffness and arthritis to improving digestion, heart health and coat care. Supplements work by adding nutrients to your dog’s diet, supporting the body in ways that may reduce the risk factors for certain health problems like inflammation or digestive upset. They typically come as chews, oils, powders or capsules that are added to the dog’s food. While some dog foods offer balanced nutrition, because of their breed, age or health conditions, some dogs need extra support. Dog supplements like glucosamine have been shown to reduce pain in dogs with osteoarthritis. Meanwhile, fish oil, probiotics, and antioxidants support skin, digestion, and immunity. Depending on the individual dog and the specific supplement, they can ease arthritis, boost heart and brain health, improve gut balance, and aid liver function, especially as your dog ages or recovers from illness. These supplements can’t directly treat illnesses and should never replace veterinary-prescribed treatments. However, they can ease symptoms and improve your dog’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Do Veterinarians Recommend Supplements?

There’s no doubt that a well-balanced, healthy diet should be the foundation of your dog’s nutrition. However, supplements can also play a key role in providing targeted support and filling any nutritional gaps in their diet for some dogs. Quality supplements are often recommended by vets to support existing therapies or to help prevent a dog’s existing health issues from progressing. For example, a vet may recommend that a dog with heart disease or a puppy at risk of developing heart disease have fatty acid supplements in their diet. Before you start your dog on a new supplement, it’s essential that you speak to your vet first, especially if you’re looking to treat a specific issue. They’ll be able to recommend the best supplements and dosage for your dog based on their age and health needs, ensuring they won’t interfere with any existing medications or health conditions.

What You Need To Know Before Giving Supplements To Your Dog

Before giving your dog supplements, it’s important to understand the risks and how to choose safe, effective products. Unlike prescription medications, pet supplements aren’t strictly regulated by the FDA, which means some may not contain what they claim or meet quality standards. Look for third-party certifications like the NASC Quality Seal to ensure safety and ingredient accuracy. Always talk to your vet first. They can recommend a trusted supplement that won’t interfere with medications or lead to over-supplementation, such as too much vitamin D or calcium. Never give your dog a supplement made for humans, as some ingredients (like xylitol) can be toxic. A quick conversation with your vet can make all the difference. Once your dog starts taking a supplement, monitor their behavior and health. If you notice any changes, good or bad, speak to your vet.

Supplements aren't a magic fix and cannot replace prescribed medications or a healthy, balanced diet. However, when chosen wisely and under your vet's guidance, they can be a powerful tool in supporting your dog's health. Whether easing joint discomfort and improving digestion or enhancing skin and coat health, the right supplement can keep your dog feeling its best for longer.