Should You Be Adding Dog Supplements To Your Pooch’s Diet?

by Amy Tokic

Updated: March 3rd, 2022 Published: March 8th, 2013

should you be adding dog supplements to your poochs diet

Dog supplements can make a difference to your dog’s health – if taken properly

You take a multi-vitamin every day. In the winter, you boost your Vitamin C intake with a few extra pills, Or perhaps you have some joint issues and your doctor recommended fish oil capsules. Our health benefits from these added vitamins – and so is your dog’s when you add dog supplements to his diet.

Supplements can provide your dog with essential nutrients he doesn’t get enough of in his everyday diet. Dog supplements can also enhance an already healthy diet or treat lingering issues. Omega 3-6-9 fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and anti-oxidants can boost your dog’s health and offer a happier life.

More pet parents are making dog supplements a part of their dog’s daily diet. The most common include multivitamins, supplements to support arthritic joints, and fatty acids (important for a shiny coat and reduced shedding). Dog supplement use is also popular with owners of older and obese dogs, in order to reduce symptoms brought on by age or weight.

But do dogs need really supplements? Are dog supplements safe? There’s a lot of talk on the subject – some experts say they are important while others believe they could be doing more harm than good. Let’s go over a few important points before you add dog supplements to your pup’s diet.

Before you give your pooch dog supplements, take him to the vet and get her expert opinion. Point out any health issues you think could be affecting your dog and ask if there are any supplements that could alleviate the problem.
Check the supplements included in your dog’s food. Some dog foods have supplements built in. Some of these include adult formulas or prescription dog food. Others include botanicals or DHA.
Check the dose. Giving too much of a good thing could lead to serious health issues. Always follow the recommendations on the packaging. If you are in doubt, ask your vet.
Does your dog need extra vitamins? If you’re feeding your dog an FDA-approved dog food, he is most likely getting all the vitamins and minerals in this complete and balanced diet. If you’re using a homemade dog food, your dog may need added supplements.
When choosing dog supplements, look for a brand that specializes in the issue you dog is facing. Read the labels, know the name of the ingredient you’re looking for and make sure the supplement has it. And don’t be fooled by claims that sound too good to be true – they usually are.

Do you add dog supplements to your pooch’s diet? Have you felt that it’s helped or hindered his heath? Let us know in the comments section below.

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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You’re busy all day at work and you’re worried your dog isn’t getting enough exercise. Before you hire a dog walker, be sure to ready our article below. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and it takes up a significant amount of your time. Fortunately, dogs make wonderful companions, so all of that time feels more like a privilege than a chore. There may be times, however, when you find yourself in a pinch and you can’t give your dog everything he needs – that’s when you rely on friends and family to lend a helping hand. But what if they aren’t available? Dog walkers earn a living by providing an essential service to dog owners who need a little help. Your dog deserves (and needs) a daily walk, but if you can’t manage to squeeze it into your schedule one day, hiring a dog walker is an option. Keep reading to learn more. Related: Dog Daycare or Dog Walker: Which One Should You Choose? What Are the Benefits of Dog Walkers? The most obvious benefit of hiring a dog walker is that your dog will still get the exercise and attention he needs, even when you can’t provide it yourself. Regular walks are extremely important for your dog’s health, especially considering that over 50% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight. On top of the obvious benefits of regular exercise, hiring a dog walker also provides your dog with some mental stimulation. Meeting new people and exploring new places are great for socialization as well. Another benefit of hiring a dog walker is that your dog will be more active during the day when he’d normally be sleeping. This means that he’ll be more tired and less demanding when you get home. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that your dog isn’t too lonely while you’re away and that he has someone else who cares about him. If you use the same dog walker most of the time, your dog will feel like he’s made a new friend. Related: Top 10 Gifts For Your Dog Walker Things to Know Before Hiring One There are always risks involved when you let a stranger into your house, especially if you’re not home. Dog walkers typically have credentials and clearances (especially if they work for a company), but you’re still putting a certain degree of trust in their hands. Here are some things to think about before you hire a dog walker: Does your dog really need a walker? Some dogs do better with long absences than others, so ask yourself whether it’s really necessary.Think about how long you’re going to be away – if you have a long commute on top of an 8-hour workday, your dog could probably use a break.Does your dog respond well to new people and will a dog walker be able to manage him? Dogs with behavioral issues are generally not a good candidate for dog walking.Can you afford to hire a walker regularly? Many dog walkers charge a flat fee while others charge by time – think about how often you’ll be needing a walker.Should you hire someone or go through a company? There are many dog walking companies around and even apps you can use to hire a walker on the spot. You know your dog best, so you are the only one who can decide whether hiring a dog walker is a good option. Even if you find that your dog does fine with a walker, however, you should still walk your dog yourself as often as possible to maintain your bond.

What Is Hip Dysplasia In Dogs?

It’s hip to be square – learn the facts about hip dysplasia in dogs When it comes to keeping your dog healthy, there is only so much that you can do. Providing a healthy diet and keeping up with routine veterinary exams and vaccinations will go a long way to keep your dog in good shape. There are certain conditions, however, to which your dog may be genetically predisposed and you can’t do anything about it. One of these conditions is hip dysplasia. In this article you will learn the basics regarding what hip dysplasia is, how it affects your dog and what the treatment options may be for your dog. The Basics of Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a congenital (inherited) condition, which means that it is passed down from the parents to the offspring. This disease affects the hip joint – this is the point the hind leg connects to the body via a ball and socket joint. The head of the femur (leg bone) is shaped like a ball that fits into the socket of the hip joint, located on the pelvis. In a healthy dog, the ball and socket are perfectly shaped to match each other and a strong ligament holds the two bones together. In cases of hip dysplasia, however, the joint may be abnormally structured and/or the muscles and ligaments may be underdeveloped. This causes the two bones to lost contact and separate in a process referred to as subluxation. In essence, the head of the femur does not rest properly inside the hip socket and, in some cases, it may actually pop out. Related: Great Dane Causes and Symptoms This disease can potentially affect any dog, but it is most common in large and giant breeds. Some of the breeds most at risk for hip dysplasia include German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes and Rottweilers. Certain breeds such as the Greyhound and the Borzoi have a low risk for hip dysplasia. While a dog born to parents with hip dysplasia is not guaranteed to develop the disease, his chances are much higher. If there are no carriers of the disease in a dog’s bloodline, he stands a much lower risk of developing the disease – this is why breeders thoroughly test for congenital conditions like hip dysplasia to ensure healthy litters. Though genetics are the primary factor in determining a dog’s risk for hip dysplasia, adequate nutrition impacts the likelihood of an at-risk dog developing the disease. Dogs that are genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia may also have a greater chance of developing the disease if they are over-exercised while young. Related: Should You Add Dog Supplements To Your Pooch’s Diet? The symptoms of hip dysplasia may vary from one case to another – in very mild cases, there may be no symptoms at all. One of the first symptoms you are likely to notice is stiffness in the hind legs and soreness in the hips as your dog gets up from sitting or lying down. You may also notice your dog begin reluctant to exercises or climb stairs. As the disease progresses, your dog may begin to favor one of his hind legs, limping or hopping to avoid putting weight on it. If the disease goes untreated, the affected limb may eventually go lame. Treatment Options If your dog is genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, there is no way to effectively prevent it from developing. There are, however, several treatment options available including total hip replacement in severe cases. Maintaining a healthy weight, encouraging moderate exercise and providing warm and comfortable sleeping areas are all ways to manage hip dysplasia in cases where it has already begun to develop. Oral supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine may be beneficial as well. In some cases, your vet may recommend anti-inflammatory medications – particularly if your dog has developed osteoarthritis – possibly in conjunction with pain medications. Hip dysplasia is a very serious disease and one that can do a great deal of damage if it goes untreated. Do yourself a favor by purchasing a dog only from a reputable breeder who has performed the proper genetic screenings and do your dog a favor by providing adequate diet and exercise. If your dog does develop symptoms of hip dysplasia, seek veterinary care as soon as possible to begin treatment before the problem gets worse.

What Causes Heartworm in Dogs?

One of the most dangerous threats to the health of dogs around the world is the dreaded  heartworm. Most people are not even aware of the illness, until it is too late for  treatment and the damage has already been done. In fact, many dog owners are not at all familiar with heartworm, how it occurs, how it progresses, and what causes it in the first place. That’s why we’ll go into all of the details every dog owner should know about heartworm. What Is Heartworm Disease in Dogs and What Causes It?Heartworm disease in dogs is caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria Immitis. These are most simply put, heartworm larvae, and are carried within mosquitos. And that’s how they are transmitted – through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito, carrying a heartworm larva, bites a dog, it immediately transmits the larvae onto the dog’s skin. This is how the heartworm enters the bloodstream, through the teeny tiny mosquito bite wound – yes, that is how incredibly small these larvae are. After this, over the course of several months, the deposited larvae mature and grow into adult worms that nest and reside within your dog’s heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Once they become adults and enter the animal’s system, these worms can really cause substantial damage to the lungs, heart, and even other organs. This damage is then manifested through visible symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, difficulty breathing, coughing, and – in the most extreme cases – heart failure. Heartworm needs to be treated. Otherwise, this disease can be fatal to dogs. Of course, your most common precaution is through regular use of heartworm preventatives, as well as minimizing exposure to mosquitoes or mosquito-dense areas. This can help protect your doggo from contracting a potentially deadly disease. Preventing And Treating Heartworm Disease in DogsThis being said, we need to take into account that heartworm disease won’t be common in all parts of the world equally. The disease is prevalent in parts of the world with warm or humid climates, and high populations of mosquitoes. This is not an exclusive rule, however, and the disease can occur in all parts of the world, including temperate zones. As a diligent dog owner, you should get familiar with your region and if needed, take precautionary measures. If you live in an area where there are a lot of mosquitoes, you can invest in things like mosquito repellents for dogs. 

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Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

After 5 Long Years, a Lost Senior Dog is Reunited With His Owner

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Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

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Watch This Brave Cat Save Her Dog Sibling from a Coyote Attack

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What to Know About Cat Reproduction

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Rising Pet Care Costs Lead to More Surrenders

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Guinness World Records Reviews Bobi’s 'World's Oldest Dog' Title

A Portuguese dog named Bobi made news last year when Guinness World Records crowned him as the world’s oldest dog. Bobi was 31 years and 165 days old when he died at his home last October.However, Guinness World Records has now suspended Bobi’s title after complaints made by veterinarians and professionals questioning the legitimacy of his age.Bobi, who was a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, was also declared the world’s oldest dog ever, breaking a nearly century-old record held by an Australian cattle dog, named Bluey, who died in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months. The average life expectancy of a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo is 12 to 14 years.A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records explained that the review into Bobi’s record is ongoing and it includes looking over the evidence again, looking for new evidence, and talking to experts and all those linked to the original application. “While our review is ongoing we have decided to temporarily pause both the record titles for oldest dog living and (oldest dog) ever just until all of our findings are in place and have been communicated,” said the spokesperson, according to CBS News.Several skeptics pointed out that Bobi’s feet appear to be of different color in photos of him as a puppy and in recent pictures of him in his old age. A Lisbon vet, Miguel Figuereido said last year that Bobi doesn’t really look like a very old dog with mobility problems and an old dog muscle mass. Additionally, an investigation by Wired discovered that Bobi had been formally registered on Portugal’s pet database in July 2022. Leonel Costa, the dog’s owner, registered Bobi as being born in 1992, but there hasn’t been any proof, other than the owner’s word. According to Portuguese law, dogs born before 2008 didn’t have to be registered until October 2020. The Portuguese database for dogs, cats, and other pets also told Wired that they weren’t contacted by Guinness World Records to verify the information. Many other veterinarians and canine experts have questioned Bobi’s true age in correspondence to the Guinness World Records. A veterinarian and council member of the Royal Colledge of Veterinary Surgeons, Danny Chambers, told the Guardian, “Not a single one of my veterinary colleagues believe Bobi was actually 31 years old.”Guinness World Records insists that the suspension is temporary while the review is ongoing.Bobi spent his whole life living with the Costa family in the village of Conqueiros, in Portugal. The pooch, who was allegedly born on May 11, 1992, escaped death in his first days of life. Bobi, along with three other puppies, was born in a woodshed belonging to the Costa family. But, because they already owned many animals, the parents decided to get rid of the newborn puppies.One puppy - Bobi - was unintentionally left behind and discovered days later. Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, who was eight, and his sister persuaded their parents to keep the pup, and so he remained living with the family.Leonel Costa defended Bobi’s title saying that “an elite within the veterinary world…tried to give people an idea that Bobi’s life story was not true.”Costa believes this happened because he attributed Bobi’s longevity to a varied diet of human foods, rather than pet food. He said this goes against the recommendations of many veterinarians. “Everything would be different if we had said he (Bobi) ate pet food for three decades,” said Costa, adding that they’d provided everything Guinness World Records requested to validate Bobi’s age. Bobi has never been chained up or put on a leash and used to roam the woods around the village until he got too old to move much. He spent his golden years lounging in the yard with the family cats. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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