The Best Dog Vitamins and Supplements, According to Veterinarians
Photo by Chewy Studios
There are dog vitamins and supplements from A to Z, but how do you know which, if any, are the best dog vitamins for your precious pet? Generally, a commercially manufactured pet food should meet your dog’s daily nutrient needs, but they may benefit from supplements that target specific conditions. Arthritic dogs, for example, may benefit from a supplement that maintains joint function, and dogs with digestive issues may benefit from a supplement that supports gut health.
To get you started in your search for the best dog vitamins and supplements for your pet, here are the top veterinarian-recommended options across several different categories. But no matter the reason you are considering dog supplements, all of the vets we spoke with recommend you look for products with a National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) quality seal. This certification helps ensure that the dog supplements come from a reputable company. And always consult with your veterinarian before adding any new vitamins or supplements to your dog’s diet.
The Best Dog Vitamins and Supplements
Best Multivitamin for Dogs
If your vet recommends your dog take a multivitamin, Dr. Katy Nelson, Chewy’s senior veterinarian, likes these 8-in-1 bites from Zesty Paws. As the name implies, this dog multivitamin provides support across eight different areas, including gut health, immunity and hip and joint function. Plus, the soft chews are easy to feed to your dog.
Best Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs
Older pups or dogs experiencing the first signs of arthritis may benefit from a hip and joint supplement. Dr. Jonathan S. Block, DVM, CVA, CCRT, of West Delray Veterinary in Florida, likes the research-backed products from Nutramax. This soft chew is formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin and ASU (an extract made from avocado and soybean oils)—three ingredients commonly found in the best joint supplement for dogs.
Best Digestive Health Supplement for Dogs
A healthy pup has a healthy gut, and your veterinarian may recommend a digestive health supplement to keep your dog’s digestive enzymes in balance. Dr. Nelson recommends Purina FortiFlora which she says has the perfect balance of healthy probiotics and a delicious taste that pets love.
Best Calming Supplement for Dogs
For dogs who are anxious, hyperactive or easily stressed out by new environments, these bite-sized, chicken-flavored chews are formulated to help promote calm in stressful situations. “Organic ingredients like hemp and chamomile have been shown to have a calming effect on pets,” Dr. Nelson says.
Best Liver Supplement for Dogs
SAMe, the active ingredient in Denamarin, helps protect healthy liver cells and may help repair damaged ones. These tablets also contain Silybin which helps your dog’s liver maintain a healthy oxidative balance. “The SAMe and Silybin in Denamarin provide a powerful combination of support for liver health, as well as cognitive function in dogs,” Dr. Nelson says.
Best Urinary & Kidney Supplement for Dogs
Crananidin uses scientifically formulated cranberry extract to help promote urinary tract health in dogs. The extract has bacteria-fighting compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs), which help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Dr. Block says that the bioactive PACs formula improve the effectiveness, making this one of his go-to recommendations.
Best Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs
Dr. Nelson recommends this Zesty Paws supplement for healthy skin and shiny coats. The oil is made from Alaskan salmon, and the mess-free bottle allows you to easily dish it up on top of your dog’s daily meal. “Coldwater fish oils contain higher concentrations of healthy omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids, which are great for skin and coat, as well as joints,” Dr. Nelson says.
Best Dental Supplement for Dogs
We understand you love your dog, but you don’t love their dog breath. If your pup needs a little help keeping their tartar in check, Dr. Block recommends these Virbac dog chews as one good option. These plant-based chews are formulated to help freshen breath and reduce plaque and tartar.
Best Allergy & Immune System Supplement for Dogs
If you’re looking to promote your dog’s overall immune system wellness, Dr. Nelson likes these softgel capsules from Nutramax. “Welactin is a rich source of omega fatty acids, which deliver DHA and EPA in an optimally absorbable form to support skin and coat, kidney, brain and vision health and support joint, heart and immune function,” she says.
In certain cases, vitamins or supplements can be a beneficial addition to your pup’s diet. As always, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dog vitamins and supplements for your furry friend.
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