Do You Need to Include Supplements in Your Dog’s Diet?

A happy pet is one that is well taken cared of. Love and proper nutrition will keep your dog healthy and strong. But is this enough? Will your dog need supplements in its diet? What are recommended supplements that you can add?

Supplements are not needed if you feed your dog a well-balanced diet; this is the key to keeping your dog fit and healthy. If you have chosen a pelletized dry formulation from well-known brands, your dog does not need supplements. It is because these reputable companies spend a lot on research and development for various breeds of dogs, added to the fact that these companies are aware of habit and traits that these dogs have, as well as the activities that they were bred to do. This type of food for dogs is probably the best way to ensure a healthy balance in your pet’s diet since this was specifically designed for them.

If you have chosen to feed your dog some low-quality feed, then your veterinarian may recommend addition of a little protein, as well as vitamins D and A — which can be taken from hardboiled eggs. He may tell you to add eggs in your dog’s food maybe two times a week, depending on his observation of your dog. These vitamins aid in maintaining your pet’s good skeletal structure and eyesight.

There may be times that you want to add some variety in what your pet eats. Perhaps, you want to make a meal out of pork trimmings mixed with raw egg or you want to cook some soup or a stew. Just be aware that your pet does not have the same diet required by humans. Your dog will definitely eat it with gusto but the meal may not be balanced for your pet. You can try adding a bit of whole grains, some nuts, liver, or some green vegetables — for an added boost of vitamin B. This will benefit your dog’s muscles and skin. If your dog is healthy and kept clean all the time, you are actually helping it from acquiring ticks and fleas, which will also undermine your dog’s well-being. Rich sources of Vitamin E may be taken from bran, vegetable oil, and wheat germ. Beware of feeding your dog with grapes for there have been cases of renal failure reported from dogs that have eaten it. Popcorn and chocolates are also not recommended because they are detrimental to your dog’s health.