Nutritional supplements for dogs: What does your dog really need?
Nutritional supplements for dogs: What does your dog really need?
Reading time: approx. 5 minutes
Dogs are loyal companions, and their health is of utmost importance to us as dog owners. Sooner or later, you, too, will be faced with the decision: should I give my four-legged friend a supplement? Opinions are divided on this issue.
Many people think that a balanced diet, sufficient exercise, and regular veterinary visits are sufficient. And yes, of course, it can be sufficient, but adding supplements can certainly be beneficial during certain life stages or when health challenges arise. But how do you choose the right supplement for your dog? When is it necessary, and how is it used correctly? In this article, we answer all the important questions to help you make an informed decision.
- What are nutritional supplements for dogs?
- Types of use of dietary supplements
- Dosage of dietary supplements
- What nutritional supplement does your dog need?
- My dog won't eat supplements – what now?
What are nutritional supplements for dogs?
Dietary supplements are additional sources of nutrients that dogs receive in addition to their regular food. They can be of plant, animal, or synthetic origin and come in various forms such as tablets, powders, or flakes. Their goal is to supplement the supply of vitamins, minerals, and fats, thus promoting your dog's overall well-being.
They fall into the category of food and are not medicines. It's important to clearly distinguish nutritional supplements from medical treatments. They are well-suited to supporting specific living conditions or proven nutrient deficiencies. However, if your dog is seriously ill, nutritional supplements should only be given in consultation with a veterinarian, as incorrect dosage can have negative effects.
The dosage of supplements you should give your dog is explained in detail in another section of the blog post to ensure your dog receives the correct amount.
Types of use of dietary supplements
In general, two main types of use of nutritional supplements in dogs can be distinguished: prophylactic and therapeutic.
Prophylactic use
Here, nutritional supplements are given preventively to ensure your dog receives sufficient nutrients for specific needs. This is often useful during specific life phases, such as during shedding, during raw feeding, or in old age, when nutrient requirements are increased. Even without acute symptoms, prophylactic supplementation can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and promote overall well-being.
Therapeutic use
Supplements can also be used to alleviate health conditions or support medical treatment. However, this use should always be done in consultation with a veterinarian, as the dosage and type of supplement must be precisely tailored to the specific condition. Dietary supplements can support therapy but should never be considered a substitute for medical treatment.
Dosage of dietary supplements
The correct dosage of supplements depends on various factors, such as your dog's weight, age, and activity level. Overdoses should be avoided at all costs, as this can lead to health problems. A general rule is to follow the manufacturer's dosage recommendations and consult a veterinarian if in doubt.
What nutritional supplement does your dog need?
As already mentioned, nutritional supplements can not only compensate for existing nutrient deficiencies, but can also be administered preventively or as an adjunct to therapy to promote your dog's health. This raises the question: Which nutritional supplement does my dog really need? This question depends largely on your dog's individual needs. Various factors such as age, breed, size, and health problems play a role. Older dogs or large breeds that are prone to joint problems often need support for their joints and bones. Dogs with skin or coat problems, for example, can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, while dogs with digestive problems often need prebiotics. Since your dog's needs can change over the course of its life, it is important to regularly review and adjust them.
stomach and intestines
Many dogs regularly suffer from digestive problems such as flatulence, diarrhea, or constipation. These can be caused by stress, food intolerances, or an imbalanced intestinal flora. Digestive disorders not only negatively impact your dog's overall well-being but can also lead to more serious health problems in the long term.
While there's no guarantee that supplements will completely resolve such problems, they can still provide valuable support. By promoting healthy gut flora and soothing the gastrointestinal tract , supplements for your four-legged friend's stomach and intestines can help improve your dog's overall well-being and prevent more serious health problems.
Skin and fur
The condition of your dog's skin and coat provides important clues about their health. A dull, lackluster coat or skin problems like itching and dandruff can indicate allergies, nutritional deficiencies, or seasonal stresses like shedding. These problems not only affect your dog's appearance but also their well-being.
Skin and coat supplements can provide valuable support, especially through a targeted combination of key ingredients. For example, brewer's yeast provides valuable B vitamins that promote coat growth and regenerate the skin. Linseed oil and flaxseed meal provide omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. Coconut flour has a moisturizing effect, while rosehip and nettle act as powerful antioxidants to combat skin irritations.
Joints and bones
Over time, your dog's joints can lose mobility due to wear and tear or age-related changes. Problems like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint inflammation often lead to pain and limitations in your beloved four-legged friend.
Joint and bone supplements can help prevent or alleviate wear and tear. Ingredients like glucosamine and MSM help maintain and promote cartilage regeneration, which can have a positive effect on your dog's mobility. Flaxseed meal provides anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, while devil's claw helps with natural pain relief from joint pain. This combination of ingredients can improve your dog's mobility and thus enhance their quality of life.
My dog won't eat supplements – what now?
If your dog doesn't eat supplements, there are ways to get them used to the taste. Sometimes the problem is the smell or texture. A slow introduction or mixing it with their favorite food can help.
In one of our previous blog articles, you'll find helpful tips on how to make nutritional supplements appealing to your four-legged friend.
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