Do dogs need vitamins? If we are to believe the TV ads, our pets are receiving a complete and balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals. Okay, who is regulating our doggy food requirements? To begin with, the Food and Drug Administration is in charge of animal supplements. Also, the National Animal Supplement Council provides research information that tests and sets the labeling guidelines for dog food and dog treat products to ensure that they contain the necessary ingredients on each label.

Vitamins Are Important For Dogs

The answer for vitamins for dogs is already answered in the ingredients noted on dog food and the variety of dog treats that are appropriate for them. Quality commercial dog foods are created to contain the right amount of key minerals like zinc, iron, calcium, and copper. Therefore, your dog should normally not need additional supplements.

Yes, vitamins are important because it keeps their skin and coats healthy. Vitamins for dogs also helps to keep their teeth and bones strong, as well as allowing them to run, jump, and play with healthy energy. As for an additional dosage of vitamins or supplements, it is not necessary unless prescribed by a veterinarian.

The question is, are vitamins for small dogs more necessary for their size than for a larger breed of dog? Dogs of different ages have different nutritional needs. If it is puppies versus adult dogs versus senior dogs, their health nutrition is best identified by a vet. Dogs are not humans, even though they are subject to human illnesses. Their internal system is quite different and unique. Yes, there are certain illnesses that affect our beloved doggies which can be helped by giving them additional vitamin supplementation. However, adding more vitamins and supplements to a healthy dog's daily food requirements is not always necessary.

How do you know if your dog needs a vitamin supplement? If your veterinarian has diagnosed them with a deficiency or a disease. If you cook your dog's meal, you may need to add more vitamins and supplements, but with a vet's consent. Either way, only your veterinarian can determine the vitamin needs of your dog because they monitor their growth through their medical history and through regular check-ups.

The vitamins required for dogs in their foods and additionally when needed are identified in two categories: water-soluble vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins. These vitamins are vital in building bones, tissues, and more. Water-soluble vitamins are known as C and B. C and B vitamins dissolve smoothly within a liquid environment. This complex is quickly flushed out the body and, therefore, replenishment is needed.

The fat-soluble vitamins are a part of the animal fat category. This vitamin complex consists of vitamins A, D, E, and K. When consumed through the daily meal requirements in their diet, A, D, E, and K is easily absorbed within their intestines in small quantities and remains there for the body's use later. Let's look at how each of these vitamins and supplements aid in our doggies health:

Vitamin B: this vitamin complex contains a myriad of nutritious vitamins. It converts glucose into energy, strengthens nerves, regulates healthy enzymes for dogs whose diet contains lots of meat, keeps the hair shiny, protects red blood cells, keeps a dog's skin well toned.

Vitamin C: this supplement helps in pregnancy with regulating lactating symptoms, helps to prevent kidney stones, fights off diseases, maintains urine acidity, reduces stress, and helps puppies grow into strong adult dogs.

Vitamin A: gives dogs healthy eyesight and many other health benefits.

Vitamin D: helps the body absorb calcium in building bones and keeping them strong.

Vitamin E: helps produce more red blood cells.

Vitamin K: protects the body from forming blood clots and skin scabs.

Can you over supplement your dog with vitamins and supplements? Yes, you can! Calcium, copper, iron, and zinc are minerals that are found in the right quantities in what we feed them. By feeding your dog additional amounts of these minerals, over time it can cause a toxic build-up and create serious health problems. It is highly advisable to keep your veterinarian informed about what you are feeding your dog, especially if it is additional vitamins and supplements without their expertise.