Are Dog Supplements ACTUALLY Important? Here's Why.

As a dog parent, it’s only natural for us to wonder if we’re giving our furry friends everything they need to live long, happy, and healthy lives.

That mindset is why more and more pet parents are turning to supplements to support their dogs' wellness.

But... are supplements really everything they're cracked up to be?

We're here to answer that question by discussing what makes pet supplements truly beneficial, if they’re safe, and which ones are great to try.

So, let’s get started!

Your Dog's Food Might Not Be Enough

When we think about the need for dog supplements, the best place to start is actually what goes in your pup's food bowl.

Some might say that pets get all the nutrients and nourishment they need from their regular food. But just like human food, not all pet food is made equal. So much so, that some pet foods are loaded with junky ingredients and artificial flavors that serve no beneficial purpose.

That’s why it’s so important to keep a close eye on what ingredients you’re specifically feeding your pet, and if they might need more nutrients outside of their diet.

If you ever feel unsure about your pet’s diet, a conversation with your veterinarian is a great place to start.

So, How Can Supplements Help?

Think about your dog's day-to-day life for a second. 

What are your dog's routines and activities? How do they act after a meal? How do they look, behave, and move? 

Those are just some of the many factors you can consider, but the point is to take a closer look at your dog's actions to see if there are certain aspects of your pet's wellness that might need to be addressed. 

For instance, some dog parents notice that their dog scares easily. Others might notice that their dog scratches themselves a lot, but don't have fleas. Some people even notice that their dog looks uncomfortable after meals.

Depending on your concern, supplements may be able to help!

Supplements are made with ingredients and blends that may be able to help support certain areas of your pet's well-being. Think probiotics for gut health, as one easy example.

So, by introducing supplements into your dog's diet, you might be able to lend your pup a helping paw to keep them feeling their best. 

Are Dog Supplements REALLY Safe?

Trust us, this isn’t a silly question at all. In fact, it’s incredibly valid when you consider just how many brands and products are out there. So, here are a few quick tips to make sure the pet supplements you want are as safe as can be:

1. Do your research! A lot of products make “too good to be true” claims, so don’t just pick out products that make disease-curing promises that they can’t actually keep. Those sorts of products are usually poorly formulated, and rely on outlandish claims just to make a quick buck.
2. Review product labels carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask the brand direct questions about their ingredients and formulations. Reputable brands will always be able to provide answers for ingredient amounts, efficacy, and directions. 
3. Look for lot numbers on the product. Simply put, this means the company uses quality control checks to ensure that the supplement are handled properly before they reach your pet.
4. Follow directions closely. Sure, you know your pet well. However, keep in mind that supplements (while yummy) aren't like treats. So, please be sure to follow the directions on the packaging -- or contact the brand if you have specific questions.
5. Consult with your veterinarian. If you think you’ve found a great solution for your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out to a vet to hear their thoughts about introducing new supplements to your furry friend’s diet.

How Do I Know What Dog Supplements Fido Needs?

When it comes to choosing supplements, it would be great if there was an easy "one-size-fits-all" solution, right?

But just like us, each pet has different needs that vary based on age, breed, size, behavior, and health history. There’s plenty of other factors, but you get the gist!

With several health factors come several supplement options, which is why some dog parents are unsure of where to begin. 

Regardless of what's going on, this is also a good time to consult a veterinarian to look into your concerns. Then, based on what your vet decides, you may be able to try out a supplement!

Our advice? Focus on 1-2 areas of your pet's wellness first. That way, you're not only simplifying your supplement search, but you're also able to monitor the results easier.

So, here’s a few benefit-related factors you can consider when browsing around for supplements.

Hip & Joint Health

As every pet parent knows, it’s important to make sure our pets keep the spring in their step. Young or old, it’s always important to make sure your dog can move comfortably. Here's a few suggestions to look into:

Mobility Bites - Yummy soft chews with pawsome ingredients that support hip and joint function.

Senior Advanced Mobility Bites - A paw-erful advanced soft chew that supports joint function for senior dogs.

Hemp Elements Plus Mobility Bites - With 225 mg of plant-based cannabinoids per bag (5 mg per chew) and joint supporting ingredients.

Gut Health

Your pup's tummy might need more than just a loving belly rub! Gut health products are a great way to support your dog's digestive function and gut flora to keep their tummy happy. Here's some products to consider:

Probiotic Bites - Includes paw-some probiotics that support gut flora and tummy health for dogs.

Scoot Away Bites - Tasty soft chews that support gut health and bowel function for dogs that scoot.

Hemp Elements Probiotic OraStix - Digestive support and periodontal health for your furry friend.

Immune System

These days, it's never been more important for all of us to  have a healthy immune system -- dogs included! To support your pup's immunity and seasonal allergies, here are some helpful products you can try:

Aller-Immune Bites - Our best-selling chewables support immune function and seasonal allergies for your canine companion.

Ancient Elements Aller-Immune Bites - Made with an ancient grain base and pawsome ingredients that support immunity.

Hemp Elements Plus Aller-Immune Bites - With 225 mg of plant-based cannabinoids per bag (5 mg per chew) and immune supporting ingredients.

Skin Health

Every pet parent wants their canine companion to feel comfortable in their own skin... literally! That's why it's always good to support their skin health with quality ingredients that can do the trick. Here's a few:

Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil - Delicious fish oil with EPA and DHA sourced from the Omega-3 helps to support skin health

Omega Bites - These delicious soft chews contain a blend of Fish Oil, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Biotin for skin support.

Hemp Elements Salmon Oil + Hemp - Features Salmon Oil and Hemp Seed Oil to provide a pawsome way to support your pet's skin.

These are only a few of the most common ingredients and benefits that lend pets a helping hand, but there are plenty of other supplements on the market that can support your pet. So, we encourage you to keep looking, and to consult with a veterinarian to learn more about what might be best for your pet’s specific needs.

We hope this gives you a good starting point to understanding the basics pet supplements, but we would love to answer any additional questions you might have.

If you’d like to learn more about pet supplements, or simply how to pick the right one for your dog or cat, leave a comment below and let us know. Or, you can reach out to us directly at 1-800-738-0661 or bark@zestypaws.com.