Natural Dog Supplements: How to Improve Your Pet’s Health!
Daniel | April 8, 2025
Natural dietary supplements are becoming increasingly popular in pet care.
This is a market driven by marketing, similar to the pharmaceutical industry. The only difference is that the drug market is supervised by various organizations, such as the FDA, which regularly check the composition of the drug, but unfortunately the composition of supplements is not supervised. What does this mean for you? When buying a supplement, you never know what a specific tablet, powder or liquid actually contains, which is why it is important to obtain sources of credibility from manufacturers who supply specific supplements to the market.
Modern owners are looking for natural ways to support their pets’ health instead of relying solely on traditional medications. In this article, we will discuss how natural dog supplements can help, what benefits they can provide, and which supplements are most effective.
Supplements are not magic bullets or insurance policies for a poor diet. Nor are they, as clever marketers claim, the key to your pet’s immortality. We do not recommend giving supplements until your dog's diet is improved, as it is the basis of your dog's health and longevity. Sometimes, however, supplementation is the only way to provide your pet with the amount of active substances that will help it regain health.
Try to get as much of the essential nutrients, vitamins, and amino acids as possible from the products you feed your dog. If a supplement is needed, give it. It is worth noting that not everyone needs supplementation all the time.
Today, you will find a multitude of guides and encyclopedias on the internet, which supplements are worth giving to your dog. However, we want to focus here on the most important and most natural ones, those that have proven biological and biochemical effects due to their effectiveness and action to improve health and extend its life. When giving supplements, be sure to consider: the dog's age, breed, health condition, exposure to other factors (stress, living in the city, changing residence).
Giving the same supplements every day means that your dog's body has plenty of time to adapt and adjust to the same molecules that keep appearing in it. Changing the dose and frequency of dosing optimizes the body's regeneration to supplements, because if you constantly give him a specific supplement, amino acid, it creates a break in the supply of this natural amino acid or vitamin in his body. Supplements are supposed to strengthen the regeneration processes, nutrition processes, and not replace the natural ones. So if you happen to miss a pill one day, don't panic, nothing will happen. Natural supplements for dogs are not medicines, they do not require a rigid schedule.
The purpose of supplementation is to supplement any deficiencies in the daily diet, unfortunately many of us approach this issue to extremes, which can have an adverse effect on the animal's body. Too much is unhealthy, is an old saying that has its meaning here. A good example here would be antioxidants, which play a key role in combating free radicals and the aging and regeneration of cells. Too many synthetic antioxidants in consumed supplements can disrupt the functioning of the innate antioxidant and cleansing mechanisms of the body.
Our DNA, like the DNA of animals, activates the production of endogenous protective antioxidants produced within the body, responding to specific signals. The natural antioxidant stress control system is much more powerful than any dietary supplement. Nature has developed its own biochemical system to create more active antioxidants during periods of high oxidative stress in animals (canines and humans). Cells have an innate ability to produce enzymes. Several natural compounds have been identified that activate antioxidant and detoxification pathways, and here the most important protein will be a protein called "Nrf2". A protein that scientists call the master regulator of the aging process, because it activates many genes related to longevity and, above all, inhibits oxidative stress. Among the natural compounds that trigger the production of Nrf2 in the body will be: curcumin, green tea extract, milk thistle, bacopa extract, DHA docosahexaenoic acid, sulforaphane contained in broccoli and ashwagandha. This group of substances demonstrates effectiveness in triggering antioxidant processes. However, there is only one "king". Glutathione is one of the most important factors in cleansing the body. Veterinary studies show that dogs that do not age properly or have congenital liver disease also have low levels of glutathione. Glutathione is an effective cleansing agent, it binds to various toxins, limiting their harmfulness. It is as if the glutathione molecule catches the toxin and neutralizes it. (We will write a separate article about glutathione and how important it is in your dog's diet, but if you need more knowledge, then check here).
Why is it worth using natural supplements for your dog?
Natural dog supplements offer many health benefits that can support your pet's health on many levels:
- Boosting the immune system: Supplements like echinacea and fish oil can boost immunity, helping pets cope better with illness.
- Improves joint health: Glucosamine and chondroitin are known to support joint health, which is especially important for older pets.
- Healthy skin and coat: Fish oils rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can improve skin and coat condition by reducing itching and inflammation.
- Digestive support: Probiotics can help maintain healthy gut flora, which translates to better digestion and overall health.
Types of Natural Dog Supplements
- Resveratrol - It is a rich source of antioxidants, widely used in Japanese and Chinese medicine for years. Recently, it has started to make a real splash in the dog world, as it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, to be beneficial in the fight against cancer and cardiovascular diseases, to improve the functioning of the nervous system, to increase alertness in dogs, to reduce the risk of a decrease in the functioning of the immune system, to support the functioning of the brain and psyche. It is effective in the fight against depression, with a decrease in cognitive abilities and in early symptoms of dementia.
- Fish Oil - Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin, coat and brain. Regular use of fish oil can also support heart and joint health. When it comes to dogs, science is clear: fish oil improves skin, behavior and the health of their brain and heart, and also reduces inflammation and epilepsy. Puppies become even smarter, no, read: more polite. Without fatty acids, dogs' cells would simply disintegrate. It is worth noting that due to the high temperatures used in processing pet food, most of the essential fatty acids are destroyed. So if you are hoping that when you buy a pack of dog food that says it has a good balance of omega-3 or omega-6 acids, don't fool yourself into thinking that there is any of these acids left in the food after you open it. Note that cod liver oil - not the oil from its body - may have a high content of vitamin A and D, but it does not contain a lot of omega-3 acids. Some recipes call for cod liver oil as a source of fat-soluble vitamins. We do not recommend feeding cod liver oil to your dog's food unless it is an ingredient in a specific recipe or your dog has been tested for low levels of vitamins A and D.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin - These ingredients are often used together to support joint health. They help regenerate joint cartilage and may relieve pain associated with arthritis.
- Probiotics - Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system. They can help maintain a healthy gut flora, which is crucial for proper digestion and overall health. There are a variety of probiotic products available on the market today, look for one that contains a blend of different probiotic strains with a high number of CFUs. Verified by an independent institution for their longevity and effectiveness. We recommend rotating different brands and different probiotics. Soil bacteria and other strains of probiotic bacteria have different properties that help diversify the gut flora. Remember, fermented vegetables and regular kefir are great sources of probiotics, but many dogs do not tolerate them due to their sour and rather strong taste. If your dog does not mind these products, you can give them in the diet if you have no other choice but to give probiotics to nourish and diversify the microbiome.
- Echinacea - Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties. It can help pets fight infections and shorten the length of time they are sick.
- Curcumin - Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. This compound affects biochemical pathways associated with neurodegenerative disorders such as cognitive impairment, decreased energy, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. It is also a powerful antioxidant, hormonal and neurochemical modulator, helps metabolize fats, and fights cancer. Turmeric contains large amounts of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
How to safely use natural supplements for your dog?
Supplements should always be used in consultation with your veterinarian. Here are some tips:
- Dosage: Follow the recommended doses and do not exceed them without the advice of a specialist.
- Observation: Monitor your pet's behavior and health after introducing a new supplement. Watch for any allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
- Product quality: Choose supplements from reputable manufacturers to ensure they are safe and effective.
Benefits of specific supplements
- Fish oil
- Skin and Coat Health: Omega-3 fatty acids support skin health by reducing inflammation and improving coat quality.
- Heart health: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and may support heart health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin
- Joint Health: Helps regenerate joint cartilage, which is especially important for older pets or those with joint problems.
- Pain Relief: May reduce the pain associated with arthritis, improving your pet's quality of life.
- Probiotics
- Digestion: Probiotics support healthy gut flora, which translates into better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Immunity: A healthy digestive system affects the body's overall immunity, helping to fight infections.
- Echinacea
- Immune System: Echinacea supports the immune system, helping pets better cope with infections and diseases.
- Reduces the duration of illness: Regular use of echinacea can reduce the duration of illness, improving your pet's overall health.
- Curcumin
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Supports overall health: The antioxidant effects of curcumin support cellular health by protecting them from damage.
Herbs to support your pet's health
Herbs are a natural and effective way to support pet health. Here are some herbs that can benefit your pet:
- Dandelion
- Detoxification: Dandelion supports liver and kidney health by helping to remove toxins from the body.
- Digestive Health: Aids digestion and may help relieve stomach discomfort.
- Milfoil
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Yarrow has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve inflammation.
- Digestive support: Can be used for indigestion and stomach problems.
- Chamomile
- Calming Effect: Chamomile has a calming effect and can help relieve stress and anxiety in animals.
- Digestive Support: It may also aid digestion and relieve stomach discomfort.
- Milk thistle
- Liver Health: Milk thistle supports liver health by helping to regenerate and detoxify the liver.
- Antioxidants: Contains powerful antioxidants that support overall body health.
- Nettle
- Urinary Support: Nettle may support urinary tract health and act as a natural diuretic.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Nettles are rich in vitamins and minerals that support the overall health of animals.
How to choose the right herbs?
As with supplements, choosing the right herbs should be consulted with your veterinarian. It is important to use herbs in the right doses and observe your pet's reactions.
- Consultation with a veterinarian
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new herbs into your pet's diet. Your veterinarian will help determine which herbs are most appropriate for your pet's health and needs. - Product quality
Choose herbs from trusted suppliers to ensure they are free from contaminants and pesticides. Organic and certified products are the best choice. - Form and dosage
Herbs come in a variety of forms, including dried leaves, powder, tinctures, and capsules. Choose the form that is easiest for your pet to administer and follow the dosage recommendations. - Health monitoring
Monitor your pet's behavior and health after introducing new herbs to their diet. If you notice any adverse effects, consult your veterinarian and adjust the dosage or herbs.
Summary
Natural dog supplements and herbs can be a valuable addition to your pet’s diet, supporting their health on many levels. Fish oil, glucosamine, probiotics, echinacea, curcumin, and herbs like dandelion, yarrow, chamomile, milk thistle, and nettle can all provide many health benefits. Remember, however, to always consult your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or herbs to your pet’s diet. With the right supplements and herbs, you can ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life. Natural dog supplements should be included in the diet if necessary.
