Dog Supplements and What They are For

Throughout their lifetime, dogs can suffer from a lot of illnesses and health problems. A lot of owners give dogs dietary supplements to help improve their health. But to be able to do this, it is necessary to have proper knowledge of what dog supplements are and what they are used for. Since we want our canine best friends to live as long as they could, we have to be responsible enough to research on how to handle supplements properly.

If you are thinking of giving supplements
to your dog, the American
Kennel Club gives us four popular dog supplements and what they are used
for.

Glucosamine

This is the most popular
supplement for dogs. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is found naturally in
the fluid around the joints to help build cartilage. As dogs grow older, they
are prone to arthritis. Glucosamine is believed by dog owners and veterinarians
to be an effective treatment for arthritis and joints. For older dogs, it may
relieve them of joint pain and improve mobility. Although some studies show
that it has little to no effect, a 2007 study in The Veterinary Journal showed that it has significant results after
70 days of treatment.

Fish Oil

The second most common
supplement given to dogs is fish oil. It contains omega-3 fatty acids that are
thought to improve coat quality and shine, and also helps alleviate skin
allergies. A study in the American
Journal of Veterinary Research also shows that fish oil is helpful in
reducing inflammation, thus a lot of dog owners use it for this purpose.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are known to
help slow down the effect of aging, such as memory loss and cognitive
dysfunction. They are also used in treating heart disease in dogs and reducing
inflammation. Antioxidants are found in substances like vitamins C and E, and
they protect the body from potentially harmful molecules that can damage the
cells.

Probiotics

Probiotics live naturally in
the body in the form of yeasts and live bacteria. They aid in digestion and
intestinal health. In the form of supplements, they are used in treating
diarrhea and other digestive problems.

Although the basics have been provided, it is always important to consult with your vet first.

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