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Please Note: The BeanTown Dogs website provides information and listings of dog breeds, clubs and associations, rescue organizations, health and nutrition, breeders,
trainers, groomers, boarding kennels, and other pet services and products.  However, we do not recommend, endorse, or support any one of these listings over another.  The links
provided on the site are for information purposes only and should not be viewed as a recommendation or endorsement.  Accuracy of information is the sole responsibility of the
owner of the listing and we cannot be held responsible for any misrepresentation.  We reserve the right to refuse any listing at our sole discretion.  The BeanTown Dogs website is
not affiliated or associated with any organization or business - It is a completely independent project. -
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Dog Supplement Guide
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Click to go:  Home > Health > Dog Supplement Guide
Disclaimer: None of the information on this page or on its
links should be substituted for your veterinarian's advice.
Dog supplements for the modern dog. Chances are, if you're feeding your dog a widely
known brand of commercial dog food, your pet is getting adequate nutrition. But today,
more pet owners are turning to dog supplements, to give their animals the kind of
added nutritional benefits that are often processed out of commercial dog food. Dogs
have different nutritional needs at different life stages, and dog supplements can pick
up where dog foods leave off. In addition, some medical conditions, like arthritis, or hip
dysplasia, can be treated with dog supplements.

Dog supplements include vitamins, such as A, B1, and Folic Acid; minerals, such as
potassium and iron; and probiotics, the ‘good bacteria' that live in the intestinal tract
and aid in digestion, and other body functions. Dog supplements can help dogs live a
longer, healthier life, by strengthening the immune system, boosting metabolism, and
adding shine and thickness to the coat. For your dog's health and also for your peace
of mind talk to your veterinarian before introducing dog supplements to your pet's diet.
Make sure your pet is getting the right dog supplement for their life stage, size, breed
and condition.
Features to Consider in Dog Supplements

  • Ingredients
  • Safety
  • Efficacy
  • Cost
  • Guarantee
  • DVM approved or recommended
  • Form - powder, pill or liquid

Desirable Features in Dog Supplements

  • Easy to give
  • Safe
  • Guaranteed
  • Cost effective
  • Appropriate for the age, weight, species, and health of the pet

Dog supplements come in many forms, including powder, pill and liquid. Some dog
supplements are as easy to administer as spreading on your dog's food, or dropping
into drinking water. Other dog supplements must be swallowed in pill form, or taken
externally. Always read labels carefully and follow directions. And if you have the
choice, choose dog supplements that are the easiest to use. If they're easy to use,
you'll be more likely to administer them regularly. And regular use is the key to success
with dog supplements.

The ingredients in dog supplements will vary according to the condition, which the
supplement is trying to target. Fatty acids, like Omega-3, will contribute to a healthy
skin and coat, and may help relieve some allergy symptoms; older dogs may benefit
from dog supplements containing Vitamin E, or other antioxidants; young, active dogs,
or lactating/pregnant dogs, may benefit from a multivitamin.

Regardless of the dog supplements you choose, make sure they're designed to fit the
age, weight, species and overall health of your dog.

The Ideal Dog Supplements

The ideal dog supplements for your best friend are those targeted to your dog's
particular health needs, as determined by your veterinarian. They're safe and
effective, and easy to administer. Best of all, they're given regularly, so that your dog
has the best chance of receiving the utmost in health benefits.

Safety Dog Supplements Tips

As always, consult your veterinarian first. Many dog supplements are recommended
and prescribed by vets. Read label directions, particularly regarding the age, breed,
weight and health conditions of your pet, when determining dosage for dog
supplements.

Make sure the dog supplements you choose are designed for dogs, not cats, humans,
or others. Put topical dog supplements on places where the dog cannot lick them off
(between the shoulder blades, or the back of the neck, for example). Keep dog
supplements, and all pet foods and medications, out of the reach of children.