More and more dog owners are consciously working on their animal’s health. A better choice of food, regular exercise and attention to stress: it is all part of it. At the same time there is growing interest in natural supplements as an addition to daily care. But not every dog needs supplements. In this guide we set out when supplements can make sense, which five themes come up most often, and how CBD oil can fit in.
When is food alone no longer enough?
For most healthy dogs, complete food is enough to provide all the nutrients. Even so, there are situations in which a targeted addition can make sense. Think of older dogs, of large breeds whose build puts more load on the joints, and of dogs that are less comfortable in their own skin because of stress, coat problems or a sensitive digestion. After an illness, an operation or a change in their living environment, extra attention can help too. Not sure whether a supplement suits your dog? Then your vet is the best first port of call.
Five common themes in dog supplements
Most supplements for dogs focus on one of five areas. Below we go through them, with the signals that can be a reason to look into them.
1. Joints and mobility
Joints are one of the most common reasons for supplements in dogs. It mainly comes up with older dogs, large breeds such as labradors and shepherds, and dogs with a history of injuries. Classic ingredients are glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM, often combined with herbs such as devil’s claw or turmeric. These products are usually given over a long period and consistently.
2. Skin and coat
A dull coat, flakes or a lot of scratching can point to sensitive skin or a shortage of essential fatty acids. Supplements for skin and coat often contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin and herbal blends. For dogs that moult a lot or whose coat loses its shine in winter they are a popular choice. You usually only see any difference after six to eight weeks, so patience is needed.
3. Digestion and gut flora
Variable stools, wind or a sensitive stomach are signals that digestion could use some attention. Products in this category often contain probiotics, prebiotic fibres and herbs such as chamomile or peppermint. Especially after a course of antibiotics or with dogs that are quickly troubled by a change of food, this is a logical choice. With persistent complaints, a visit to the vet is important to rule out underlying causes.
4. Stress and behaviour
Thunderstorms, fireworks, moving house or being left alone for the first time: there are plenty of situations that can throw a dog off balance. Calming supplements often contain a mix of passionflower, chamomile, valerian or lemon balm, sometimes supplemented with L-tryptophan. For structural anxiety, behavioural guidance matters at least as much as a supplement.
5. Weight
More and more dogs are overweight, especially if they move less or have a big appetite. Supplements in this category usually contain fibre-rich ingredients that give a feeling of fullness. The real work of course happens at the food bowl and on the lead, but as an addition to a diet plan it can help.
Naturally formulated: the Healthy Dog line from Jacob Hooy
One brand that consistently works with natural ingredients is Jacob Hooy, a Dutch family business with a long history in herbal products. The Healthy Dog range consists of five treats that each fit one of the themes above: Hip & Joint for the joints, Skin & Coat for skin and coat, Belly Support for digestion, Relax Mix for stress, and Weightcare for weight. Because they are treats, your dog usually simply eats them, without any fuss with pills. You will find the full range in our supplements for dogs category.
CBD oil for dogs: when is this an addition?
Besides food supplements, some dog owners use CBD oil as an addition to the routine. CBD is extracted from the hemp plant and interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which dogs have too. Scientific research into CBD in dogs is still in its infancy, so there are no hard conclusions.
In practice the oil is given under the tongue or straight into the mouth. The dose depends on your dog’s weight and the strength of the oil. A usual starting point is to begin low, keep it up for a few days and then build up carefully.
Important to know: CBD is not a medicine and does not replace treatment by a vet. If your dog is on medication, certainly with liver or kidney problems, consult the vet first. CBD can influence the breakdown of certain medicines.
How do you choose the right supplement?
Start with the reason: which theme do you want to address? An older dog with stiff hind legs calls for something different from a young, restless dog. Then look at the composition. Natural herbal blends and recognisable ingredients (such as glucosamine or omega-3) are a good start. Avoid products with unnecessary fillers, artificial colourings or vague claims without any basis. Combining is fine, but consult a vet if in doubt, certainly if your dog is already on medication.
Finally
Supplements can be an addition to caring for your dog, but are never a replacement for good food, enough exercise and attention. Use them purposefully, give them time, and keep observing carefully. At Dutch Balance you will find a growing range of dog supplements, with the Healthy Dog range from Jacob Hooy and CBD oil for animals. Questions about a specific product or a combination? Feel free to send us a message and we will think along with you. Order before 17:00 and your order goes in the post the same day.
