5 BEST SUPPLEMENTS FOR YOUR DOG

 

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The vitamin and supplement business for humans is a multi-billion dollar industry. Many pet owners also feel that if supplements are good for them, they must be good for their pets too. However, before giving out supplements to your pup like treats, you should consider if they are something your pet actually needs. More often than not, if you are buying your dog a high quality food, they are getting the supplements they need to live a healthy, normal life.

There are, however, a few herbs, natural supplements, and people foods that you can give to your dog without breaking the bank or causing concern that your dog is getting too much of a certain vitamin. Here are five things you can bring to Fido’s table to increase energy, make his coat shinier, and add some variety to their meals.

1. Raw And Lightly Steamed Vegetables For Your Senior Dog

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Both raw and steamed veggies have great nutritional value for dog, especially if they are enjoying their golden years. Finely chop or grate some veggies and stir into your dog’s dry food. Vegetables like sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants that aid in healing, cancer prevention, and even fight the effects of aging. Be sure to make sure the veggie is OK’d for doggie consumption. Pumpkin is great for dogs with diarrhea.

2. 2-GI Probiotics For Upset Stomachs

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Probiotics are used to help a dog’s intestinal track that is, well, off-track. If your dog is experiencing looser than normal stools, consider adding a 2-GI Probiotic to their regimen. Probiotics work by restoring the proper balance of intestinal bugs by introducing healthy bacteria into the dog’s system. Discuss the use of probiotics (and all supplements) with your vet, they should not be given daily unless directed by a veterinarian.

3. Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplements For Itchy, Allergy Ridden Pups

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If your dog often has red, itchy, or inflamed skin, an Omega-3 fatty acid supplement or fish oil may be the ticket to itch-less bliss. Fatty acids are great at reducing inflammation. Most vets will recommend fatty acid supplements for optimal dermatologic health. Examples of fatty acid include fish and salmon oils which your dog will love. As always, you should always talk to your vet about any underlying issues that may be causing the scratching, but there is a good chance they will recommend this type of supplement with whatever treatment they prescribe.

4. Goldenseal For Watery Eyes

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We have all seen a pup that looks constantly sad with weepy eyes. Did you know that a little herb called Goldenseal can help with that? The herb is a powerful antibiotic that prevents harmful bacteria from hanging onto cell walls. You can use it as a tincture, tea, or was for dogs with goopy, sad eyes.

5. Sunflower Oil For A Shiny, Healthy Coat

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Along with Omega-3’s, Omega-6 Fatty Acids are a crucial ingredient for a healthy pup, specifically a healthy pup with clear skin and a shiny coat. Mix a fresh teaspoon of an oil such as sunflower or safflower oil to your small dog’s dry food, or up to a tablespoon for a larger breed. If your dog is a picky eater, the oil will be a tasty break from the monotony of dry dog food.

Remember, much like the human supplement industry, many supplements you can buy over the counter are not heavily monitored, studied, or controlled by officials. Products may say “all natural,” but that isn’t a direct correlation with “good for your dog.” Be sure to talk to your dog’s vet about any supplements or human foods you plan on adding into your dog’s diet to be sure they are right for them and check the ingredients in your dog food, your pup may already be getting them!