As a pet parent, you want nothing more than to see your dog live a long, healthy, and happy life. And that starts with the right diet. Just like humans, dogs need the right balance of nutrients to maintain their physical and mental health. After all, a healthy dog will always be a happy dog.
Through research and experience, we’ve learnt that it’s all about providing them with the right nutrients. Sometimes, it can be challenging to meet your dog’s nutritional needs through food alone. That’s where supplements come in.
What Are Dog Supplements?
Dog supplements are professionally formulated to support a dog’s overall health and well-being. They can be added to a dog’s regular diet.
Do Dog Supplements Really Work? The Facts
When it comes to dog supplements, pet parents often wonder whether these products can truly make a difference. Their effectiveness depends on various factors, including the type of supplement and the dog’s health.
No supplement is a complete replacement for regular veterinary care and a healthy diet, but it can add to your dog’s overall health.
Here’s a look at what the experts have to say about using dog supplements.
Expert Insights:
The experts and vets at Dog Academic had this to say:
“Deciding to add supplements to your dog’s daily care isn’t just about keeping up with health trends. It’s fundamentally about tuning into the unique health nuances of your dog. It’s advisable to have a veterinarian evaluate your dog first, to identify any dietary deficiencies or specific needs they might have.
Remember, choosing to use supplements should be a thoughtful decision aimed at addressing specific health needs, not just a general fix for every pet.”
Scientific Research:
There is significant research on the ingredients in dog supplements. Studies have shown that natural ingredients like hemp seed oil can help improve joint health, particularly in older dogs. Research into probiotics has also demonstrated their positive impact on digestion in dogs, particularly for those with digestive issues or after antibiotic treatments.*
Is It Safe to Give My Dog Supplements?
Yes, as long as you consult with your vet and use the recommended dosage, it’s safe to give your dog supplements. Never give your dog a supplement designed for humans, as these can be harmful and may cause serious side effects.
Dr Evan Shaw, a Brisbane-based vet, had this to say:
“When it comes to safety, I emphasise that not all supplements are created equal. Poorly processed or unnecessary supplements can do more harm than good. For this reason, I guide pet owners toward evidence-based choices tailored to their pet’s specific needs, ensuring any supplement used genuinely benefits the animal.”
Dog vitamins and minerals are individual nutrients that support a specific function or target a deficiency in the body. Supplements contain a mix of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. They provide overall support for specific health needs, such as joint health or anxiety.
What Are Dog Supplements Used For?
Joint Health Supplements
Joint health supplements help support dogs with arthritis, mobility issues, inflammation, or those experiencing age-related stiffness.
But the question arises: do dog joint supplements work? These supplements are particularly beneficial for working dogs, senior dogs or giant breeds prone to hip and joint problems, such as Rottweilers, German Shepherds, English Mastiffs, and Great Danes.
Our Hemp Mobility Aid Pack combines two of our best-selling products to support dogs with limited mobility: Hemp Mobility Aid and Hemp Seed Oil.
Key Ingredients: A natural blend of pure Australian hemp seed oil, hemp powder, New Zealand green-lipped mussel, collagen, magnesium, turmeric, and vitamin C.
Breath and Oral Health Supplements
Dog oral care supplements are essential because studies show that 80-90% of dogs over the age of 3 have some component of periodontal disease.* Oral health supplements can complement your dog’s dental care routine.
Key Ingredients: Houndztooth’s oral health products use ascophyllum nodosum (seaweed), charcoal and mint, which can help improve breath and may help prevent plaque buildup.*
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and digestion. Probiotic supplements are especially useful for dogs with digestive problems or those recovering from illness. They can also help manage stress-related gut problems.
At Houndztooth, we have a few options of probiotics to choose from:
Suitable for dogs of all ages, especially the picky eaters.
Probiotics and prebiotics mixed with chicken breast, goat milk powder, pumpkin, apple, ginger, turmeric, and rosemary. No preservatives and no artificial flavours.
Add the recommended amount to your dog’s wet, dry or raw food.
Calming Supplements
Dogs, like us, can experience stress or anxiety — whether it’s loud noises, travel, separation anxiety, or general nervousness. Here is an overview of dog supplements that may help promote relaxation during stressful times:
Ideal for everyday use or specific stressful events like storms, fireworks or vet visits.
Can be given to dogs above the age of 12 weeks. Gentle enough for everyday use or for specific situations.
Formulated with pure Australian hemp seed oil, hemp seed powder, L-Tryptophan, B vitamins, magnesium, and green tea. Boosted with ginger to soothe sensitive stomachs during stressful situations.
Calculate the dosage based on your dog’s weight and mix with wet or dry food.If using for a stressful event, feed your dog their daily dose 30-60 minutes before the event.
All-natural support for your picky eater during stressful or anxious times.
Can be given to dogs above the age of 12 weeks. Can be used for specific stressful situations.
Ingredients like chicken breast, sweet potato, L-Tryptophan, broccoli, apple, magnesium, ginger and more provide essential nutrients and flavour. Salmon meal gives it a delicious flavour that tempts fussy eaters.
Add the recommended amount to your dog’s wet, dry or raw food.
Are Natural Supplements Better?
Natural ingredients are generally gentler on a dog’s system, making them a more sustainable choice for long-term use. Many natural ingredients have additional health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, which can support your dog’s overall well-being.
“I use supplements a lot in my practice. I use natural supplements as much as possible, as I find that they are more effective and safer. I recommend supplements for vitality and longevity, and then use specialised supplements for problems such as allergies, gut issues, cancer, etc.”
Each supplement is designed to address particular needs, so it’s essential to match the right product with your dog’s condition.
2. Talk To Your Veterinarian
Your veterinarian can advise you on which supplements are effective for your dog based on their age, breed, weight, and pre-existing conditions.
3. Look for High-Quality, Natural Ingredients
Opt for natural supplements. Avoid supplements with artificial additives and preservatives.
4. Start Slowly and Monitor Your Dog’s Response
When introducing a new supplement, start with a small dose and monitor your dog’s response. Some supplements may take time to show effects, so be patient and give your dog time to adjust.
Final Thoughts: Do Dog Supplements Really Work?
When it comes to supporting your dog’s health, supplements are essential — but not a one-size-fits-all solution. Their effectiveness depends on your pet’s unique needs, age, health conditions, and lifestyle. It’s important to remember that supplements should complement a balanced diet, not replace it. Always consult with your veterinarian beforehand.
When choosing supplements, opt for high-quality, natural products from trusted brands like Houndztooth that are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes. Contact our team to learn more about our range or hear from our experts on our pet blog.
**References:
1. Della Rocca, G., & Di Salvo, A. (2020). Hemp in Veterinary Medicine: From Feed to Drug. Frontiers in veterinary science, 7, 387. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00387
2. Yang, Q., & Wu, Z. (2023). Gut Probiotics and Health of Dogs and Cats: Benefits, Applications, and Underlying Mechanisms. Microorganisms, 11(10), 2452. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11102452
4. Gawor, J., & Jank, M. (2023). Ascophyllum nodosum as a nutrient supporting oral health in dogs and cats: a review. Polish journal of veterinary sciences, 26(3), 511–520. https://doi.org/10.24425/pjvs.2023.145053.
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