Just like humans, dogs need a wide spectrum of vitamins and minerals for a long and healthy life. The world of canine nutrition can be murky and confusing–we generally know that our dogs need some balance of protein, carbs, and fats, but what else? Depending on your dog’s needs, you might find yourself looking into supplements to protect their joints, promote gut health, and boost their immune system. Rather than relying on separate supplements for each, you can combine all of the above into one easy-to-eat multivitamin.
Does my dog need multivitamins?
Commercial kibble that meets AAFCO standards is formulated to provide all of your dog’s nutritional needs daily. However, there are plenty of reasons to add a multivitamin into your dog’s daily routine.
If your dog is a picky eater and has a habit of leaving their food untouched, or eats around the bits that they don’t like, a multivitamin can ensure that they’re still getting adequate vitamins and minerals. An aging dog or one coping with loss of appetite can benefit from multivitamins for the same reasons.
Puppies can also reap long-term benefits from supplementation. Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in eye and brain development. Senior dogs aren’t exempt, either–krill oil can reduce inflammation in the brain brought on by aging, boosting cognitive function.
Multivitamins can complement homemade or raw diets. Whole foods naturally contain vitamins and minerals, but the exact quantity available in each ingredient can vary. A supplement can make sure your dog gets exactly what they need daily.
You may have started looking into a multivitamin if your dog has been diagnosed with a chronic or degenerative illness, such as arthritis. Talk to your vet about your dog’s specific needs and what kind of supplements they recommend.
What should I look for in a multivitamin?
Not all multivitamins are considered equal. And, of course, different dogs have different needs.
Some of the most important benefits that Deley Naturals 15 in 1 Multivitamin Chews offers are:
- Hip and joint support: Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, collagen, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- Balanced immune response: MSM
- General mental and physical health: B-complex vitamins
- Vision support: Vitamin A
- Skin and coat support: Vitamin E
- Healthy mineral and bone metabolism: Vitamin D
- Mental cognition support: Omega-3 fatty acids (fish or krill oil)
- Gut health: probiotics
And, of course, it tastes good, neatly overlapping pill time and treat time in your dog’s mind.
In general, multivitamins are very safe. Your dog can start taking a daily multivitamin with their meals as early as 12 weeks. While not every dog absolutely needs their diet supplemented, Dr. Jennifer L. Buur of the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine calls them “an important part of our integrative veterinary medical care.”