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The Spruce Pets / Lecia Landis
More than one-third of homes with dogs use supplements, with joint and mobility issues cited as the most common reason. There are supplements for seniors, for skin and health, for urinary issues, to calm your pet, and overall multivitamins.
“Dogs are like humans in that they have unique diets, lifestyles, and living conditions. This means they also have unique requirements in terms of if and when they require supplements, and which ones,” says veterinarian Liam Gamble who works with ADM, an international company that supplies ingredients to pet food companies. “For some dogs, supplements may play an important role in supporting the dog’s health and well-being, whereas the benefits may not be quite so overt in other dogs.”
If your vet suggests supplements, here are some choices to consider. We researched dozens of supplements, looking at their ingredients, certification, and the conditions they were targeted to help with. Our favorite overall choice is Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin Bites. They address eight health benefits including joint, heart, and skin health and have no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
Best Overall
Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin Bites
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Amazon
Addresses eight health benefits
Active ingredients include glucosamine, chondroitin, cod liver oil, vitamins, and good bacteria
No corn, wheat, or soy
No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Satisfaction guaranteed
National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal
Expensive, particularly for big dogs
These soft chews cover pretty much everything that keeps your dog healthy. They support hip and joint function, heart health, skin health, gut function, your pup’s immune system, antioxidant activity, liver health, and overall performance. There are loads of active ingredients including glucosamine, cod liver oil, chondroitin, a vitamin blend, digestive enzymes, and “good” bacteria for gut health.
The chews come in four flavors and some pet owners who buy them say their dogs respond to them like they are incredibly tasty treats. You give 1 to 3 treats daily, depending on your dog’s weight. You can split the amount in half if you want to give them morning and evening.
The multivitamin supplements are made in the United States without any corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Price at time of publish: $29 for 90 chews
Volume / Quantity: 90 chews | Flavors: Chicken, beef, bison, peanut butter | Dose: 1-3 chews/daily, depending on dog’s weight
Best Probiotic
Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Canine Probiotic Supplement
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Amazon
Powder or chewable tablet
Easy to use
Liver flavor is tempting for most dogs
Benefits beyond diarrhea prevention are hard to quantify without more research into probiotics
Probiotics have the “good” bacteria that work to keep your dog’s gut health in shape. They might be able to help with digestive issues like diarrhea, gas, and bloating. If your vet suggests probiotics to help what’s going on with your dog’s gut, Fortiflora from Purina Pro Plan comes in single-use packets or as chewable tablets. Just sprinkle the powder over your dog’s food once a day at mealtime.
Very popular with veterinarians, Fortiflora is specifically for dogs with diarrhea and is meant to be administered with your vet’s supervision. It also has live microorganisms and antioxidants which may help reduce gas and support overall better digestive health. It also is available in caplet form.
Price at time of publish: $30 for 30 doses
Volume / Quantity: 30 doses | Flavors: Liver | Dose: One packet or tablet daily
Best Omega-3
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement
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Amazon
Gel cap or liquid form
Sustainably created
Tested by a third party
Not for small dogs
Omega-3 fatty acids can play an important role in everything from coat and skin health to heart and joint health. The nutrients are found in fish oil supplements, which can be available in several forms, including liquid and gel caps. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Supplement contains both EPA and DHA, two essential fatty acids. Formulated from wild-caught anchovies and sardines, it’s made using sustainable and ethical practices. It’s tested by a third party for purity.
Dribble the oil directly on your pet’s food or you can feed it to them directly if they’re willing. The supplements are also available as gel caps. Some dogs will eat them directly and others might need something like peanut butter as an encouragement.
Price at time of publish: $17 for 8 ounces
Volume / Quantity: 8 ounces | Flavors: Unflavored | Dose: Once daily based on dog’s weight
Best for Joint Health
Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement for Dogs
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Chewy
Veterinarian recommended
Several versions
Has glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane for joint health
No flavor, so not always appealing
As dogs age, they can get achy, having a hard time going up or down stairs, or even sitting or standing. A glucosamine supplement might be able to help with that stiffness or prevent it from happening so quickly. Nutramax Cosequin is a popular choice with veterinarians. In addition to glucosamine, it contains chondroitin and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) to keep cartilage healthy.
The tablets can be given to any adult dog, but we always suggest you check with your vet before starting a new supplement. The dosage is based on weight and should be given once daily. Nutramax suggests an initial dose for about 4 to 6 weeks, and then lowering the amount for a maintenance dose after that. The brand offers several other versions including a mini size for small pets.
Price at time of publish: $37 for 132 tablets
Volume / Quantity: 132 tablets | Flavors: Unflavored | Dose: Once a day
Best Calming
VetriScience Composure Calming Chews for Dogs
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Amazon
Can work within 30 minutes
Several flavors
Can give as needed or daily
NASC seal
Doesn’t work with all dogs
Whether it’s thunderstorms, car rides, or fireworks, there are things that make some dogs very stressed. Calming chews work to decrease anxiety without prescription medication. A favorite of veterinarians, Composure has natural ingredients including colostrum, l-theanine, and thiamine, which may have properties that encourage relaxation in dogs. In one study, the calming effects started to work within 30 minutes and lasted for about four hours.
Composure is a chew that is available in four flavors or in an unflavored variety. It can be given as needed—when you know storms or coming, for example—or you can give it every day. There’s a longer-lasting version that can last up to 8 hours as well as a clinical strength formula sold only at vet clinics
Price at time of publish: $19 for 60 chews
Volume / Quantity: 60 chews | Flavors: Bacon, Chicken, Chicken Liver, Peanut Butter, Unflavored | Dose: Once daily or as needed
Best Budget Multivitamin
Pet Naturals Daily Multivitamin for Dogs
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Amazon
No wheat, corn, or artificial ingredients
More affordable than many others
NASC seal
Some dogs don’t love veggie flavor
These cute bone-shaped multivitamin chews are filled with 25 nutrients. There are B vitamins for cognitive function, metabolism, and energy, antioxidants for skin, coat, and the immune system, and essential minerals for heart, bone, and overall health. There’s no wheat, corn, or artificial ingredients. The chews are made in Vermont with domestic and imported ingredients.
The multivitamins are reasonably priced and come in either a 30-count resealable bag or a 150-count bottle. The treats have a vegetable flavor which some dogs love and some have to be persuaded to love. Like all Pet Naturals supplements, the Daily Multi has the NASC seal. Dosage is 1/2 chew for dogs under 25 pounds, one chew for dogs 25 to 75 pounds, and two for dogs over 75 pounds.
Price at time of publish: $7 for 30 chews
Volume / Quantity: 30 chews | Flavors: Vegetable | Dose: 1/2 to 2 chews daily, depending on weight
Best Food Topper
Solid Gold Bone Broth
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Chewy
Human-grade ingredients
Can be served as-is or warmed up
Resealable pouch
Lasts 7 days refrigerated after opening
Can spill
Must be refrigerated when open
Dog food toppers are broths, stews, or sprinkles that you can put on your dog’s dry food to make it tastier and more nutritious. Solid Gold’s bone broth comes in three flavors and is made with just a few human-grade ingredients including vegetables. Bone broth is high in collagen which might help decrease inflammation. It also has turmeric which may have similar benefits.
You can pour about 1/4 cup (for a 25-pound dog) directly from the pouch, or really make your dog happy by warming it up first. The smell alone will attract your pup, particularly picky eaters. The pouch can stay on a shelf until opened, then it lasts about a week in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen if you don’t need them often. The twist-off top can be resealed, but might leak if they aren’t kept upright.
Price at time of publish: $5
Volume / Quantity: 8 ounces | Flavors: Beef, chicken, turkey | Dose: 1/4 cup per 25 pounds of dog’s weight
Best for Seniors
Zesty Paws Senior Advanced 11-in-1 Bites
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Amazon
Promotes 11 different functions
No artificial flavors or preservatives
For dogs of all sizes
Can be expensive, particularly for large dogs
These small heart-shaped soft chews contain ingredients designed to promote healthy aging. They address 11 functions including hips and joints, skin health, gut health, immunity, heart, brain, liver, eye health, and urinary and kidney health. Because older dogs can have arthritis, they have chondroitin and glucosamine to target joint stiffness. There’s also cod liver fish oil and vitamin E for skin health, and cranberry extract, psyllium husk, and vitamins A and C for gut, immune, and bladder health.
Like all Zesty Paws supplements, they have no artificial flavors or preservatives. They come in either chicken or beef flavor and can be given to adult dogs of any size. Give one chew for dogs up to 25 pounds, three chews for dogs more than 75 pounds, and two for any pups that tip the scales in between. Dogs seem to really love these chews, so they can be given as a standalone treat or at mealtime. They have the NASC seal.
Price at time of publish: $35 for 90 chews
Volume / Quantity: 90 chews | Flavors: Chicken, beef | Dose: 1-3 chews/daily depending on dog’s weight
Best for Dental Care
VetriScience Perio Support Teeth Cleaning Dental Powder
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Amazon
May reduce tartar and plaque
Easy to use
NASC seal
Powder flavor receives mixed reactions from some dogs
Even if you brush your dog’s teeth regularly, it’s hard to get rid of all the plaque and tartar that can quickly build up. Perio Support is a powdered supplement you sprinkle on your dog’s meals for dental health and hygiene. The company says a clinical trial found that regular use reduces plaque by 20% and tartar by 18%.
Ingredients include natural zeolites, which are minerals that prevent plaque prevention, probiotics to discourage plaque-causing bacteria, and cranberry that supports healthy gum tissue. The powder is designed to be used between professional teeth cleanings and can be used for dogs and cats. Dosage ranges from 1/4 teaspoon per meal for pets up to 15 pounds and 2 teaspoons for pets over 150 pounds. Although the powder is supposed to be unflavored, some pet owners said it made picky eaters more interested in their meals and others said their pets wouldn’t touch it.
Price at time of publish: $21
Volume / Quantity: 4.2 ounces | Flavors: Flavorless | Dose: 1/4 to 2 teaspoons per meal, depending on dog’s weight
Best for Urinary Issues
PetHonesty Bladder Health Cranberry Soft Chews
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Chewy
No corn, wheat, soy
No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors
Natural ingredients
NASC seal
Some dogs aren’t fond of the taste
Cranberry-based supplements are often suggested for kidney health and urinary tract issues. These Pet Honesty chews are targeted toward bladder health and normal bladder control, as well as a healthy immune system. Ingredients are natural and include cranberry, as well as D-Mannose, a natural sugar found in some fruits, and marshmallow root and echinacea.
Dogs take 1 to 3 chews daily, depending on their weight. They’re chicken flavored and can be given as a treat or with a meal. There’s no corn, wheat, or soy and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Price at time of publish: $29
Volume / Quantity: 90 chews | Flavors: Chicken | Dose: 1 to 3 chews daily, depending on weight
Best for Heart
Fera Pet Organics Cardiac Support Supplement
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Amazon
No additives, fillers, or preservatives
No corn, wheat, soy, gluten, or dairy
NASC seal
Capsules, not chewable
These Fera Pet capsules are targeted to help heart function by increasing energy, supporting cardiac function, and the health of the circulatory system. It is designed to promote normal blood pressure and blood circulation. The active ingredients include taurine, which supports heart and brain health, as well as L-carnitine, a substance that helps the body transform fat into energy. The capsules also include coenzyme Q10, organic hawthorn berry, and vitamin E.
These are capsules, which some dogs will swallow easily swathed in peanut butter or cheese. But they can be difficult to give to suspicious or picky eaters. You can also open the capsules and sprinkle the salmon-flavored insides on your pet’s food.
Price at time of publish: $27 for 60 capsules
Volume / Quantity: 60 capsules | Flavors: Salmon | Dose: 1-4 capsules/day, depending on weight
Final Verdict
Our top overall pick is Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multivitamin Bites. These tasty soft chews address eight health benefits including hip and joint, heart, and skin health. If you’re looking for a probiotic, Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Probiotic Supplement is a popular vet-recommended choice that comes in pill or tablet form.
What to Look for in Dog Supplements
Certification
It’s a good idea to look for a brand that has the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval, Baker told The Spruce Pets. To be able to display the NASC seal, companies must meet several requirements including having strong quality control, a system to monitor products, submit to random testing, and meet strict labeling guidelines.
“Also choose one that has research data behind their product where the manufacturer is willing to send a certificate of analysis (COA) for each product,” Baker says.
Ingredients
It can be hard to easily recognize all the ingredients in dog supplements without doing some research. But check to see if the label notes that there are no fillers or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Also, look for information on where ingredients were sourced. For example, Zesty Paws supplements have very clear packaging. They note that they have no artificial flavors or preservatives or synthetic colors. The products are made in the United States with U.S. and globally sourced ingredients.
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Do all dogs need supplements?
Start by asking your vet. Some conditions could benefit from supplements, while some dogs are fine without them. “I think healthy dogs that eat a high-quality balanced diet do not necessarily need any supplements,” says veterinarian Kathy Baker, DVM, of Lucy’s Veterinary Care in Smyrna, Georgia. “For normal healthy animals who are eating a commercially prepared and tested diet I don’t think they need vitamins/minerals. Legally that is supposed to be in the food in appropriate quantities.”
But if your pet is dealing with specific conditions like allergies or stiffness, your vet might suggest adding supplements to your dog’s diet. “Definitely consult with your veterinarian,” says Baker.
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Can dogs take human supplements?
“Sometimes, yes, but definitely ask your vet,” says Baker. “Human and animal dosing based on weight sometimes might be the same, but not always.” In addition, human supplements might have added sweeteners, flavoring, or other ingredients that might not necessarily be safe for your pet. Before you share your fish oil or other supplement, check the label thoroughly and check in with your veterinarian. They can tell you if the ingredients are okay and what a safe dosage would be.
“Pet supplements are different from human supplements in terms of composition and dose. Companies are dedicated to developing products that meet specific species requirements, and are convenient for administration,” says Gamble. “Human dietary supplements and pet supplements are formulated to deliver a safe and efficacious dosage for the intended species. A safe dose for humans could be much higher than a safe dose for dogs and cats.”
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Do joint supplements work for dogs?
Joint supplements often have a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which are naturally occurring substances that can ease inflammation and stop cartilage breakdown. Cartilage is a tissue that acts as a cushion between joints. When it degrades, that can lead to pain and swelling.
There’s lots of research about whether supplements protect joints, keeping pain from becoming worse and cartilage from breaking down, but there’s no definitive answer. Because most joint supplements don’t cause side effects and some studies show that they can help, many veterinarians think it can be a good idea to give them to dogs. See what your vet thinks for your particular dog. “I personally believe they work, although there is a ton of debate about it,” says Baker.
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When should I start giving my dog joint supplements?
Sometimes pet owners will wait until they notice their dog is stiff or achy before they consider joint supplements. By then, it’s too late to walk back any damage. “I think if there is already severe osteoarthritis, they won’t help much,” says Baker. “But if the pet has a predisposition to osteoarthritis—like elbow dysplasia or a torn ACL—I think they can be helpful.”
Starting supplements before that happens would be better. “Most pet owners will consider starting a joint supplement at the point where osteoarthritis is diagnosed by the veterinarian, after noticing symptoms of ‘slowing down’ or ‘getting old,’” says Gamble. “However, the degree of cartilage degeneration may already be quite progressed, therefore there is a rationale for beginning supplementation to protect the joint from day-to-day wear and tear before arthritic changes have occurred.”
Why Trust The Spruce Pets
This article was researched and written by Mary Jo DiLonardo who has covered animals and pets for several decades. Mary Jo has fostered more than 60 dogs and puppies. She is always searching for the healthiest and most effective products to use with them. Mary Jo has researched, tested, and written about a wide variety of dog products for The Spruce Pets, including dog poop bags, collars, specialized dog foods, and even hair dryers for dog grooming.
To find the best dog supplements, we tested a range of products on our own pets. We also consulted with veterinarians about what to look for when shopping, asked dog owners about their favorite products, and sifted through loads of online product reviews.
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