Most pet parents will do just about anything to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our pets are an important part of our lives, but every dog is different.
Everything from breed, size, and age can impact your dog’s health. This is why dogs need help getting the right vitamins and minerals to stay healthy.
Find out why dogs need vitamins and what each does to improve your pet’s health.
Do dogs need vitamins
Much like humans, dogs may not have the right genes or eating habits for their longest, healthiest lives. Certain foods and pet treats contain nutrients that can help with things like heart function and your pet’s skin and coat.
However, it’s not always possible to give your dog a balanced diet. Especially one that contains the right amount of vitamins and minerals needed to look and feel their best.
Types of dog vitamins and minerals#
Vitamins for dogs skin and coat
One way to determine your dog’s health level is through their skin. If your pup is experiencing dandruff or dry skin, these could be signs of vitamin deficiency. Here are a few dog vitamins for shedding, healthy coats, and strong nails:
- Biotin
- B vitamins
- Vitamin C
Vitamins for dogs' gut health
Belly rubs shouldn’t only be for upset stomachs. A signal of good pet health is a hearty appetite and regular bowels. These vitamins help support a healthy digestive system with healthy bacteria:
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B12
- Probiotics
- Digestive Enzymes
Vitamins for older dogs and puppies
To ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life you need the right nutrients. Consider these vitamins to boost your pet's heart, brain, and immune function:
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
Vitamins for dogs' joint and bone health
- Chondroitin sulfate
- Vitamin D
- Glucosamine
- Manganese proteinate
15 dog vitamins and minerals
Similar to the nutrients humans need, there are good vitamins for dogs. Here are 15 dog vitamins and minerals your dog needs to live a healthy life.
1. Vitamin A
Just like people, dogs need help keeping their bones strong and their vision clear. One essential nutrient for this job is vitamin A for dogs. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps support bone health, immune function, and vision.
VET TIP
B-complex vitamins are important for the health of your dog. They take your pet’s food and turn it into fuel that gives your dog the energy they need. There are several different types of vitamin B for dogs, each with unique benefits.
2. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
As your pup ages, their heart and nervous center may start to wear. B1, also known as Thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps improve and maintain brain, heart, and nerve function.
3. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Another type of B vitamin is B2, or Riboflavin, which breaks down fats and carbohydrates to produce energy. B2 is an important part of normal cell growth and function and also helps your dog eat and digest food properly.
4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
As your dog gets older, it may not be as active as it used to be. B5, commonly known as Pantothenic Acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. Vitamin B5 can help keep your dog’s liver healthy and improve eyesight.
5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6, or Pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that helps produce hemoglobin and regulate blood glucose. B6 improves eyesight, promotes brain health, and can reduce arthritis symptoms.
6. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
B12 is an essential vitamin that dogs aren’t able to create on their own. So, providing your dog with a healthy diet is so important. The benefits of vitamin B12 for dogs include:
- Nerve and blood cell growth and maintenance
- Burning fat and carbohydrates for energy
- Cognitive function (like perception, memory, and awareness)
7. Biotin (Vitamin H)
You’ve probably heard of biotin as a way to boost hair growth, improve skin, and strengthen nails. This is also true for your pets. This water-soluble vitamin has awesome benefits for your dog’s skin, coat, nails, and eyes.
8. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is a water-soluble essential vitamin that boosts immune support and helps develop and repair body tissues. The benefits of vitamin C for dogs also include healthy teeth, bones, and iron absorption.
9. Chondroitin Sulfate
From daily walks to dog parks, your dogs need their daily exercise. This means their joints need extra love as they age. Chondroitin sulfate is a building block of cartilage. This vitamin helps protect and repair cartilage for strong, healthy bones.
10. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin.” But, the relationship between vitamin D and dogs is a little different than humans. Unlike people, dogs can’t produce this vitamin on their own without the sun. Vitamin D helps your dog balance minerals, like phosphorus and calcium, to develop and maintain healthy muscles and bones.
11. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble, essential nutrient that helps puppies grow into dogs. With powerful antioxidant effects, vitamin E for dogs also fights against free radicals. When your dog gets a cut, vitamin E oil can help protect cell membranes from further damage.
12. Glucosamine
Many dogs, especially large breeds, struggle with joint health issues like hip dysplasia. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce bone weakness in your pup.
13. Manganese Proteinate
Manganese proteinate is a micromineral that utilizes fatty acids and activates enzymes in your pup. The right amount of this mineral can help:
- Boost brain function
- Regulate your dog’s blood sugar levels
- Improve bone growth and formation
14. Vitamin K (K1)
Vitamin K, or phylloquinone, is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps with blood clotting. This is the greatest benefit of vitamin K for dogs. Vitamin K1 ensures your pet heals and recovers from wounds and injuries.
15. Selenium Yeast
Selenium yeast is an essential mineral that has antioxidant properties. This nutrient lowers the oxidative stress that can damage cells within your dog’s body. Selenium yeast can boost your pet’s immune system and aid in thyroid and heart health.
The scoop on dog multivitamins
Packing these nutrients into your pet’s diet may seem overwhelming. But don’t worry, most commercial dog foods typically have the right ingredients to cover all the bases.
However, if you’re looking for a sure-fire way to give your pet the right nutrients, consider supplements for dogs. Daily dog vitamins are one simple and convenient way to boost your pet's health with tasty soft chews.