How Much is Too Much In Dog Supplements

We asked a question about what if any supplements you feed your dogs. As we see better processed dog foods coming onto the market it can not only be confusing but dangerous to your dog to over supplement certain vitamins and minerals. However, most foods only put enough in to meet minimum requirements to avoid serious illnesses caused by deficiencies. And those on “raw” diets must supplement with many different elements to ensure a balanced diet.

So how do you know if you need to supplement your dog’s diet? The first thing to do is contact your vet and go over your dog’s dietary needs, work load and any known issues your dog may presently have. You don’t want to send your dog to the hospital because you give them a supplement that reacts with prescription meds or causes a side effect to a condition.

If your dog is healthy and free of any medical conditions then there are supplements you can give that should have no ill effects.

Melanie S. writes:

I am a big believer in Cosequin for my older dogs and I think a Vitamin E cap is helpful for just about any dog. I used to give Fish Oil capsules instead, but found that some dogs’ tummies couldn’t handle them. Back when I was showing in conformation, I usually was also using coat supplements, like Show Stopper or an old time favorite of mine, Dog Bloom. These products really do seem to help an out of coat dog have their coat come back in quicker. I used to own a boarding kennel and gave every dog some Prozyme on top of their food, and truly believe it keeps down cases of stress diarrhea. If one of my guys has to have antibiotic, I always want them to get the benefit of some probiotics in one form or another. Fastrack is great.

Skay shared:

Both of our dogs, get a small amount of canned pumpkin on their meal in the morning and in the evening, plus probiotic in the morning. Every once in a while, they get some fish oil added in. Once they are in their senior years, we will research the current information and more than likely provide them with some type of supplement plan.

L. Olsen suggested:

I feed a good quality food and so don’t feel the need to do much additional other than joint supplements as a preventative for my middle aged BC who plays very hard and as a necessity for my senior citizen GSD.

Jeff Riedl says:

Our dogs have been on Dr. Harvey’s Ortho Flex (to protect joints), Tahitian Noni (boosting the immune system – never any fleas or ticks (without using the monthly stuff from the vet). All four dogs are in excellent health and have continued to play Agility without any problem. Call me a fan of using the supplements!

Lucy warns:

I own a feed store and I know that every manufacturer out there wants to sell its latest supplement. Personally, I give my dog a hip and joint “treat” twice a day and a “Greenies lite” for his teeth at night. I used to do a basic multi-vitamin but since the other treats are also fortified, I stopped. He is a young sheltie with no problems; if he were an older dog who showed any soreness I might go with a stronger joint supplement. For now, the one I am giving him is more than enough. People and dogs should use only the supplements they need and other than that, get plenty of exercise and eat a healthy diet.

I would like to add coconut oil to the list of highly beneficial supplements not only orally but topically as well. What other supplements do you use? Leave your comments below.