As a dog owner, it’s only natural to want to support your pet’s life as best you can. You take them on plenty of walks, make sure they have enough mental stimulation, and ensure you prepare a great diet for them every day – and that’s most of the job done.
That’s not all there is to looking after a dog, though. There are dozens of other smaller elements that can help, and today, we’re going to be discussing where supplements fit in.
Here are the top five evidence-based supplements on the market today that you might want to consider.
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Joint Supplements
Just as is the case with humans, a dog’s joints wear down with age – but they don’t have to reach the point of total degradation.
Joint care supplements for dogs can help both prevent and treat the most common issues, like arthritis and general stiffness, by delivering a therapeutic, preventative blend of collagen and other ingredients to support healthy cartilage.
Ask your vet what sort of dose and blend they recommend (they’re particularly effective for large breeds).
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are special types of fats found in fish and certain types of marine algae. They offer a myriad of unique benefits, from supporting brain function to ensuring your dog maintains a luxurious, healthy coat.
Not all omega-3 supplements are created equal, however. You want to get one that contains the ideal amounts of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) per serving.
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Multivitamins
Even if your dog already has a good diet, a multivitamin supplement makes doubly sure they’re getting every micronutrient they need and in the right amounts.
Diet is never completely consistent, so they help fill in the gaps where it might be lacking on any given day, offering a broad spectrum of both water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, alongside a variety of minerals.
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Probiotics
Probiotics are a key component of gut health, and your dog’s microbiome is quite different to that of a human’s.
A probiotic formulated especially for dogs is thought to be beneficial in supporting a balanced digestive system, and they’re often discussed as an adjunctive treatment for those suffering from issues like diarrhoea or constipation. They’ll never resemble the entire treatment protocol, but every little helps.
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Digestive Enzymes
In the same vein as probiotics, enzymes work to assist with the digestive process. They help by augmenting the breakdown of macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates) so that they can be better absorbed into the bloodstream.
They can be helpful for those who have sensitive stomachs or for older dogs whose digestive system has become less efficient. Your vet can tell you more about what particular enzymes would be most helpful.
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it – five of the most important supplements you should consider when seeking to support your dog’s longevity. Remember, it’s essential to consult a vet before starting any kind of supplement, as you’ll need a diagnosis before you try to treat something. Here’s to your pet living a long and happy life!