Dogs have nutritional requirements akin to humans. They require a balanced diet that incorporates vitamins, protein, carbs, and other essential nutrients. Most dog food contains these nutrients in the required amounts. But some pets still might experience signs of deficiency. Dogs fed on home-made food usually have a vitamin deficiency, which can be solved by supplements that provide vitamins for dogs.
Vitamins are vital for your pets’ growth and immune system. If your dog is often getting sick or lacks energy, it might be due to vitamin deficiency and may sometimes require medical attention. A weak immune system is a sign of nutrient deficiency.
Take note if your dog exhibits the following signs:
- Abnormal Feces: The parameters to judge the excrement are colour, consistency, and content. If there is an abnormality in any of these, your pet may require attention.
- Quality of Coat and Fur: A dog’s coat is an indicator of its health. If there is an abnormal shedding of fur or change in its quality, your dog might have a vitamin deficiency.
- Lack of Energy: Dogs are energetic and active beings by nature. They have boundless energy to play-fetch all day. But if your pet appears depressed and shows no interest in activities, it may be due to the lack of nutrition.
If your dog exhibits any of these signs, you might have to look first into its diet. Ensure that your dog receives all the required nutrition.
The Essential Vitamins and Nutrients Include:
- Choline: Necessary for a healthy brain and liver function.
- Vitamin A: Responsible for your dog’s growth, immunity, and reproductive health.
- B Vitamins (Vitamin B Complex): Collectively, they are in charge of hormone regulation, nervous system, and cell generation
- Vitamin C: Eliminates free radicals. Slows cell aging.
- Vitamin D: Ensures the absorption of calcium. Obtained naturally through sun exposure, but in some cases, supplements are required.
- Vitamin E: Powerful antioxidant that aids cell regeneration. Indispensable for your pets’ metabolic system as well.
- Vitamin K: Essential for blood coagulation in bleeding cases and also bone formation.
- Carbohydrates: Powers the body. It is converted to glucose to provide energy for the body.
- Proteins: Significant part of a dog’s diet or any animal in general. Regulates all functions and is a requirement for overall health.
Things To Note While Feeding Your Dog With Supplements
- Although supplements are good, too much of anything is unhealthy.
- Supplements must be given in moderation, and after due consideration about your pet’s diet.
- Choose the appropriate dosage for your dog. It varies depending on the size, breed, and age of the dog.
- Choose supplements that are made exclusively for pets. Their contents are different from the ones that cater to humans.
- Ensure that the supplements do not have any harmful additives.\If your dog has a pre-existing medical condition, consult with the veterinarian regarding supplementation.
Conclusion
Pets, especially dogs, mean the world to their owners. They deserve not just a happy life but a healthy one too. It is the owners’ responsibility to ensure that their pets receive the required attention, care, and nutrition. The requirement of minerals and vitamins for dogs vary significantly from humans. You might think they are well-fed, but one can’t be sure. So always lookout for any signs of weakness and address them immediately to prevent long-term damage.