The Growing Market for Dog Supplements

The dog supplement market has seen exponential growth in recent years. Pet parents are eager to ensure their furry friends lead happy and healthy lives. While many dogs on an AAFCO-approved diet may not require supplements, those with medical conditions or predispositions to certain illnesses could benefit from them. Before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet, it’s crucial to discuss recommendations with your veterinarian. They can help you find the right products for your dog’s specific health needs.

What Are Dog Supplements?

Supplements are defined as products added to a pet’s regular diet that contain ingredients aimed at improving health. The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) is a nonprofit industry organization that provides certification seals to manufacturers that meet its standards. The NASC offers a quality system to ensure product safety, effectiveness, and high quality. When looking for supplements, seek the NASC certification seal to ensure it meets these standards.

Scientific research has examined many common supplement ingredients, and your veterinarian is the best resource for determining which products might benefit your dog’s health conditions. While no supplement is a cure-all, many can help slow the progression of diseases or support your dog’s body in preventing illnesses.

Why Do Veterinarians Recommend Supplements?

Veterinarians often recommend supplements to enhance other prescribed treatments or to prevent health issues, such as the progression of arthritis. For instance, dogs with heart disease or those at risk of developing it might benefit from additional fatty acid supplements. While a balanced diet is the cornerstone of nutrition, supplements can help increase the availability of essential nutrients. Homemade diets, which may not be reviewed or balanced by a veterinarian or nutritionist, often require supplements to ensure proper vitamin and mineral ratios.

Veterinarians or veterinary nutritionists should ensure your dog’s diet is complete and balanced. Supplements can be used to support diets lacking in certain nutrients, ensuring your dog receives all the essential vitamins and minerals.

How Do Dog Supplements Work?

Supplements work by adding nutrients to a diet; for some dogs, these additional nutrients can help reduce or prevent certain diseases. Puppies have different needs compared to adult dogs because their bodies are still growing, while senior dogs often have health conditions that supplements can help address.

Common Ingredients in Dog Supplements

– Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These are common in many joint supplements and are compounds typically found in cartilage. They help maintain healthy joint cartilage and support the lubrication of joints. Dogs with hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, cartilage damage, or joint instability might benefit from these supplements.

– Antioxidant Supplements

  Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are molecules that circulate in the body. They can reduce inflammation, prevent disease, and support the body during the natural aging process.

– Fish Oil Supplements

  Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are antioxidants that can improve skin and coat health, support heart muscle, and aid in brain development.

– Probiotic Supplements

  Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that support normal bodily functions. They help rebalance gut flora after illness or maintain good levels of beneficial bacteria in pets prone to disease, treating issues like chronic diarrhea or nutrient malabsorption. Probiotics are especially useful during or after antibiotic treatment to replace beneficial bacteria that antibiotics may have harmed.

Liver Supplements for Dogs

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) is a common liver support supplement that mimics glutathione, a detoxifying and liver-protecting compound produced in the body. Liver supplements are often recommended for toxin ingestion, gallbladder disease, or hepatitis.

Discussing Supplements with Your Veterinarian

Always consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet. Never give your pet human supplements without veterinary approval, as dosages can vary and may cause toxicity in dogs. Calcium, vitamin D, and iron can accumulate to unsafe levels in your dog’s body if not dosed correctly. Additionally, many human products contain xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs.

Supplements should not replace prescription medications. Never stop giving your pet prescribed medications without veterinary approval. Your veterinarian is the best resource for information and advice on supplements that meet your dog’s specific needs.