Glucosamine is taken from the shells of shellfish and can also be made in the laboratory. Many dog owners and veterinarians believe that glucosamine for dogs is effective in treating arthritis. For older dogs, it may relieve joint pain and improve mobility. Some studies have shown little to no effect.
Available in many forms, including pills, powders, and as treats, glucosamine supplements are usually formulated with chondroitin sulfate, which occurs naturally in the connective tissues of bone and cartilage.
Fish Oil The second most common supplement given to dogs is fish oil. Fish oil for dogs contains omega-3 fatty acids that are thought to improve coat quality and shine and alleviate skin allergies. There has been some research into whether fish oils are useful in treating arthritis, heart health, and joint health, but results are mixed.
Antioxidants Antioxidant supplements for dogs are thought to counteract some of the effects of aging, such as memory loss and cognitive dysfunction. Found in substances like vitamins C and E, antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, potentially harmful molecules that can damage cell membranes and even cause cell death. Coenzyme Q10 for dogs is another natural and powerful antioxidant that helps convert food into energy, as well as fighting free radicals.
Probiotics live naturally in the body in the form of yeasts and live bacteria that aid with digestion and intestinal health. Probiotics come in several forms, including some yogurts, capsules, chews, powders, and in some dog food formulations. The vitamins and minerals in these essential canine functional superfoods will help your dog fight disease, boost energy and maintain good health in general. Functional superfoods [have] the most beneficial effects on health : they reduce chronic inflammation and promote healing; are powerfully antioxidant, antimicrobial and antitumor; and are even believed to delay aging.
For the majority of dog guardians, feeding dogs commercial food makes the most sense; it is not only convenient, but— if they select high-quality food made by companies with proven records of ingredient integrity—it provides their dogs with a generally wholesome.
It's easy to add vitamins and minerals to your dogs diet with super foods. Skip to main content. Sign up and get the answers to your questions. Email Address:. We Recommend. When Is a Cup Not a Cup? Can Dogs Eat Apples? Super Foods for Dogs. Regardless if it's a CBD-specific supplement or a general product on the market, be wary of any supplements with unverified claims that sound too good to be true; i. If you've already identified a common health issue for your pooch with your vet's help, you may be wondering which supplements to try first.
We rounded up some of the most common supplements for dogs and what you should know about each one before you give it to your pet. Dogs need many of the same vitamins as people to stay healthy. Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage that provides cushion for the joints.
Klein says glucosamine supplements are commonly used to ease the effects of arthritis, including relieving pain and helping pets keep moving as they age. If your pet seems to be getting around a little slower, hops when they run or is reluctant to jump, talk to your vet about these supplements. If your dog is always scratching, fish oil can help. Its anti-inflammatory properties will make their skin feel less itchy and even skin allergies less of a bother. Bullen adds that many fish oil supplements contain omega-6s, too, which can help restore ceramides, the fat molecules that help the skin retain moisture, and boost cell membranes in the skin.
Probiotics are the live healthy bacteria and yeast that aid digestion and promote intestinal health. For dogs with constant tummy troubles, Klein says probiotic supplements might help by reducing their risk for diarrhea, constipation, and gas. Antioxidants are found in substances, such as vitamin C and E, and prevent cell damage from free radicals, which are unstable parts of cells that can cause different kinds of illnesses and speed up aging.
Klein says antioxidant supplements offer several benefits to dogs, including slowing the signs of aging, including memory loss and cognitive dysfunction.
They may also help reduce inflammation and treat heart disease. Supplements offering immune system support are also popular with pet parents. Many immunity supplements contain other healthy ingredients for dogs like antioxidants and probiotics.
Supplements containing probiotics not only help with digestion, they can also provide immune system support. Just like people, many dogs experience vision problems as they get older. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that some antioxidant supplements can help improve and preserve vision in dogs.
These antioxidant-rich supplements usually contain omega-3 fatty acids and lutein , which may protect the eye from sun damage and lower the risk of cataracts.
0コメント