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- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Pet parents, you probably take vitamins every day to support your overall health. Powder supplements can be popular with us humans, because they absorb more quickly, are simple to consume, and can mix easily into food and beverages. But does the same hold true for your best furry friend? Dog vitamins come in powder form too—read on to learn more about dog powder supplements and when—or if—you might want them.
Do You Need Dog Supplement Powder?
- Your dog needs vitamins and organic compounds for balanced nutrition and normal growth. Dogs (like other animals and people) cannot produce vitamins and minerals naturally, so they have to consume them, and vitamin supplement powder is one relatively simple way to boost nutrition.
According to Dr. Gary Richter, award-winning vet and member of Rover’s Dog People Panel, “All dogs are of the species Canis familiaris and as such have very similar nutritional needs.” Commercial dog food is specifically formulated to meet those needs. If your dog’s food is labeled “complete and balanced,” it contains all of the basic vitamins and minerals they require.
So, generally speaking, a well-balanced diet that includes a good-quality dog food is going to cover your dog’s nutrient quota. But a number of health factors can affect your dog’s overall wellness, including age, breed, size, and more, so it’s always best to consult a vet to determine the healthiest course of action.
When to Give Your Dog Supplement Powder
Dogs can experience myriad health issues that a powder supplement may help, such as senior joints, digestive issues, urinary tract infections, liver problems, and more. Much like for pet parents’ vitamins, supplements for dogs in powder form absorb more quickly than tablets and can easily be mixed into food. You can also mix powder supplements into your dog’s regular meals.
If your dog consumes a homemade, whole food diet (highly recommended by Richter), that may be another reason to consider powder supplements for dogs. You may not have full access to the specific vitamins and minerals your pet needs. Additions, such as multi-vitamin and condition-specific powder supplements, can come in handy to round out your dog’s diet.
“It is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian regarding any questions about nutrition,” Richter notes. This is especially important when feeding your dog a homemade diet. Your vet may even refer you to a veterinary nutritionist to determine the best course of vitamins for your dog.
How to Choose Dog Supplement Powders
- As noted, you should always talk to your veterinarian about what, if any, supplements your pet needs. In general, be aware that ingredients in some herbal supplements can interact with medication. Always keep careful tabs on your dog’s supplement dosage.
Richter has some general guidelines on choosing supplements for dogs:
- Look for brands that have commissioned clinical studies of their products.
- Read labels carefully to ensure quality and safety.
- Look for a lot number on the product. This is a sign that the company uses quality control checks.
- Choose brands with confirmed expertise.
- Be wary of claims that sound too good to be true. Vitamin supplements are just that—supplements. They are not cure-alls or medications.
- Do not give human supplements to dogs, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
- In general, the best options will be available through your veterinarian.
The bottom line about powder supplements for dogs: Talk to your vet first before introducing any nutritional supplement into your pet’s diet.
Dog Supplement Powders
To address a health condition, ask your veterinarian about prescription supplements that can help. The over-the-counter supplements below are primarily for maintenance or prevention.
NaturVet Advanced Probiotics and Enzymes
Looking for some help in the gastrointestinal department? The PB6 in this powder helps to balance the GI tract with healthy bacteria, while additional probiotics and enzymes break down food, making digestion easier for doggos with sensitive tum tums.
Shop on ChewyWholistic Pet Organics Canine Complete Powder Supplement
A solid all-around choice of dog powder supplement, this formula takes care of your pup’s vitamins, minerals, and more. Made in the US with whole and organic ingredients, it’s free of all those things you don’t want, like GMOs, fillers, and synthetics.
Shop on ChewyMaxxidog MaxxiSAMe Dog Supplement
Made in the US, this powder leads with the compound S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) to assist with your dog’s liver and brain function. This formula is free of GMOs and artificial flavors, preservatives, colors, and binders.
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Herbsmith Sound Dog Viscosity Joint Support Powder
Combining joint-happy glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, hyaluronic acid, and herbs, this powder supplement promotes the maintenance of your dog’s joint fluids and relieves their aches. It’s safe for daily consumption for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
Shop on ChewyDr. Harvey’s Multi-Vitamin and Mineral Herbal Supplement
Another multi-vitamin powder option, this whole ingredient herbal blend is a good choice for beefing up a homemade diet. Made in the US, with no wheat, corn, fillers, or synthetics in the jar.
Shop on ChewyAnimal Essentials Seaweed Calcium Powder
Containing red seaweed harvested off the coast of Iceland, this powder supplement for dogs is naturally rich in calcium along with other important minerals, such as magnesium, which helps bones absorb calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Each batch is lab-tested for safety.
Shop on ChewyAs always, be sure to check with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to your dog’s diet. And read on for more articles on how to best balance your dog’s nutrition in a variety of ways.
Further Reading
- How to Give Pills to Your Pet
- All About Vitamin Supplements for Dogs and When to Use Them
- 9 Surprisingly Dangerous Foods for Dogs (Starting with Popcorn)
- Your Complete Guide to Homemade Dog Food
- Decoding Dog Food: Your Guide to What You’re Really Feeding Your Pet
- Got Allergies? Exploring Hypoallergenic Dog Food
Featured image by Skitterphoto/Pexels