Feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out which supplements your dog actually needs? If yes, you’re not alone. Between viral trends and marketing fluff, it’s hard to know what’s safe and worth it.
After years of learning from veterinarians and diving into research, I’ve curated a minimal but powerful routine of supplements that I actually use and love. The following are supplements I rotate for my own pets. I share this as inspiration for you to learn more, not to recommend, as every dog is unique!
1. Omega-3 & Astaxanthin
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential (meaning they MUST get it from their diet) for brain, joint, heart, and skin health. I often prefer krill oil or algae oil over traditional fish oil packaged in plastic bottles because they’re believed to be more bioavailable, and they’re more sustainable. Krill & algae also naturally contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that supports immunity, inflammation and brain health. Side note, I personally supplement with Astaxanthin for immune support – it’s amazing!
🛑 Avoid oils in plastic or clear bottles. Oxidation can destroy their benefit before they reach your dog’s bowl
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2. Digestive Enzymes
I truly believe MANY dogs are not getting enough digestive enzymes in their diet, which can help your dog break down proteins, fats, carbs, and fiber. Especially dogs with gut issues, diarrhea, indigestion… Digestive enzymes can help dogs DIGEST their food & absorb nutrients – especially for dogs eating a dry kibble diet (ie highly processed food)
🛑 Avoid excessive filler or inactive ingredients
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3. Whole Food “Multivitamins”
Most “pet multivitamins” are synthetic blends of “vitamins” and fillers. I truly believe if I am feeding a complete and balanced whole food diet, with variety, that my dogs don’t need a “multivitamin.” But, many pet parents feed kibble (no shame at all) which I is often low in important vitamins/minerals (I have been researching this, and magnesium, for example, is low in many popular kibbles).
Instead of synthetic vitamins, I personally go for whole-food-based options that use real fruits, vegetables, and organ meats to provide naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. This also makes me feel better about the risk toxicity that could happen with synthetic options.
🛑 Avoid excessive synthetics & cheap fillers
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4. Hemp or *C.B.D*
I will never claim something is a “fix all” but if I HAD to, this may be it (or close to). Supports calm behavior, eases stress during triggers (like travel or fireworks), and can support healthy inflammation, gut health, pain, and sleep. Truly the only brand I really love is this one.
🛑 Avoid anything that doesn’t show lab results/COI
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5. Hip & Joint support
I start this in my younger dogs to help prevent issues. Muscle loss is often overlooked in senior dogs or those recovering from injury. I use a muscle support supplements made from fertilized egg yolk concentrate for my 15 year old chocolate lab, Bentley.
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6. Mushrooms
Pet safe mushrooms are, in my opinion, one of the most underrated supplements for dogs. The right ones (fruiting body, not mycelium on grain) contain beta-glucans and other compounds that can support:
- Immune function
- Liver health
- Brain aging
- Cellular repair
I personally use a variety includes turkey tail, reishi, chaga, shiitake, maitake, and ashwagandha. These can be especially helpful for dogs with chronic inflammation, aging dogs, or those with cancer-prone breeds.
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7. Daily Fiber from Real Food
Fiber helps regulate stool, supports the gut microbiome, and can reduce anal gland issues.
Here’s what I rotate:
- Steamed green veggies (like broccoli or spinch)
- Chia (soaked) or ground flax seeds
- A sprinkle of psyllium husk
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Final Thoughts
I don’t believe in throwing 10 powders & pills in the bowl every day. I believe in using supplements intentionally—based on my dog’s needs, lifestyle, and what ACTUALLY works.
Shop ALL supplements I like, click here
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References
- Dr. Karen Becker, DVM & Rodney Habib. The Forever Dog.
- National Institutes of Health. “Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes in Dogs.” NIH.gov
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. “Hemp Oil Study in Dogs.” vet.cornell.edu
- University of Florida Veterinary School. “Muscle Preservation in Dogs Using Fortetropin.”
- CBD Dog Health. “Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms in Dogs.” cbddoghealth.com
- PubMed. “Beta-glucans and Immunomodulation.” pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Disclaimer:
Like all my content, this is NOT intended to replace your veterinarian’s recommendations. This is not intended to treat, prescribe, recommend or cure. This is for informational purposes to share with your veterinarian. Everything I share is based on my personal experience with my dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian, a professional and/or qualified dog trainer before making changes to your dog’s diet, health routine, or behavior plan. Some links may include affiliate links.
