Every good owner of a four-legged friend cares not only that his pet is always fed and happy, but also about his health. A tired appearance, passivity, prolonged shedding, loss of shine in the coat, strength of teeth and bones indicate vitamin deficiency in a dog. To avoid it, you need to take an additional complex of vitamins. But how to choose the right product from all the variety of products offered so as not to harm your pet? The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared material about what vitamins for dogs are, their main types and characteristics, as well as a rating of the best products and their manufacturers.
Vitamin menu for dogs
It's time to talk about vitamin and mineral complexes for dogs.
Oddly enough, there is no single classification of vitamin supplements for dogs, but for ease of understanding, all supplements can be divided into several groups:
- Vitamin and mineral preparations of general action
- Vitamin and mineral preparations with corrective action
- Vitamin and mineral preparations of enhanced action.
Each group is designed to prevent and solve a specific type of problem.
General action vitamins are general strengthening vitamin-mineral complexes, which include substances essential for the active life of a dog: vitamins A, E, C, D, B vitamins, as well as potassium, phosphorus, calcium and other useful micro- and macroelements.
The competently and carefully selected composition of the multivitamin complex has a beneficial effect on all systems and organs of the dog, strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of infectious diseases. In addition, manufacturers delight pets with a variety of flavors of vitamin supplements: it can be liver, cheese, beef, salmon and other flavors.
A group of corrective vitamins for dogs was created to prevent diseases, improve the health of the body, and prevent or eliminate existing health problems. This also determines their composition: the drug may contain an increased content of specific substances necessary to achieve certain goals, or additional ingredients may be introduced that actively act directly on the problem area of the animal’s body.
Corrective vitamin supplements are nothing more than preparations for coat and skin, strengthening the musculoskeletal system, improving vision, reducing shedding time, etc. This category also includes vitamins for aging animals, for puppies and dogs of large and small breeds, which help maintain the animal’s vital activity at the proper level.
Enhanced action vitamins are designed for the most active dogs: training, working and fighting dogs. The same group is recommended for exhausted and weakened pets who have suffered injuries or infectious diseases, as well as during the recovery period after surgery.
These medications are based on a unique ratio of active beneficial substances that help strengthen the immune system, build muscle mass and increase the dog’s endurance level. This is a kind of “energy cocktail” that effectively restores the strength so necessary for an inquisitive and active dog.
For ease of use, vitamins for dogs are available in various dosage forms: paste, capsules, tablets, oil solutions, injections. Feed additives from well-known foreign companies such as “Canina” (Germany), “Beaphar” (Netherlands), as well as Russian preparations, “Tetravit”, “Omega” and many others are very popular.
Good vitamins for older dogs
Supplements for pets in old age support the health of the animal. They contain large quantities of organic substances, a whole complex of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the breed, such drugs are prescribed to dogs after 10 years of life.
The compositions of additives can be either multi-component or contain only 2-3 main substances.
Canina Calcium Citrat
The drug contains a lot of calcium, which is very important for the health of an aging animal, seafood, cocoa butter, algae, and plant extracts. Canina Calcium Citrat is well absorbed in the body, strengthens the pet’s teeth, muscles and bones, and is actively used to prevent the development of osteoporosis. The drug is presented in the form of a powder that needs to be added to your dog’s food or water. Standard dosage: 1 tsp. per day for 2–3 months. Contraindications to use include severe diseases of the urinary system.
Price:
- 1056 rubles for 400 g.
Advantages:
- good absorption of vitamins;
- completely natural composition;
- facilitates shedding;
- convenient release form;
- a full range of essential microelements.
Flaws:
- difficult to find in stores;
- possible side effects;
- high price.
Excel Multi Vitamin Senior 8 in1
The multivitamin complex supports the immune system of an aging animal, protects its heart and blood vessels. Many users note that dogs’ gastrointestinal tract function significantly improves, the unpleasant odor from the mouth disappears, and stool becomes regular. One tablet of the supplement contains the entire necessary set of vitamins and microelements, fatty acids. The standard dosage of the drug is 1 tablet per day for a month. The dose can be changed as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Price:
- 400 rubles.
Advantages:
- natural composition;
- no allergies;
- pleasant taste;
- noticeable effectiveness - the dog is playful, active;
- good tolerance.
Flaws:
- No.
Viyo Reinforces Dog Senior
The vitamin-mineral complex for older dogs compensates for the deficiency of all major prebiotics and microelements, primarily calcium, phosphorus and sodium. The supplement is enriched with fatty acids and collagen. Prebiotics improve the condition of the dog's colon microflora and promote normal digestion. Multivitamins contain magnesium and iron. The supplement comes in a convenient drink form in sachets. Standard dosage: 15–30 ml per day for three weeks.
Price:
- 400 rubles for 7 sachets.
Advantages:
- natural composition;
- smells like meat;
- good tolerance;
- convenient release form.
Flaws:
- No.
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Wolmar Winsome Pro Bio Booster Ca Mini
Perhaps this is the leader of our list. An ideally selected and balanced multivitamin complex from Swiss pharmacists. It has a prolonged action, one package is enough for several courses.
The composition includes not only a full set of vitamins and a calcium complex, but also all essential amino acids. The latter circumstance makes this drug mandatory for all dogs whose diet, for some reason, is deficient in protein.
The supplement is suitable for small dogs of all ages, and is safe for “feeding” pregnant bitches. In addition, the drug contains probiotics, which allows it to be used as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for puppies and adult animals suffering from frequent digestive problems. In addition, the product has other advantages:
- Due to the presence of probiotics, the drug relieves the craving for coprophagia (eating feces).
- Suitable for use from one month of age.
- Since it contains a separate calcium complex, it prevents the development of rickets and osteoporosis.
- The product improves appetite in animals.
The only downside to this multivitamin supplement is its cost. In addition, the complex is not available in every pet store or veterinary pharmacy.
For pregnant and lactating women
Unitabs MamaCare with B9
Unitabs produces vitamins for different breeds of dogs and cats. The line also includes the MamaCare vitamin complex with B9, designed specifically for pregnant and lactating bitches.
In addition to the vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the female and the full intrauterine development of her puppies, the complex contains brewer's yeast, fiber, meat and bone meal, fish oil, and milk powder.
Tablets are introduced into the food or given into the mouth at the rate of 1 piece per 10 kg of body weight 1 time per day. The minimum course is 1 month.
The average price of a package of 100 tablets is 450 rubles.
Unitabs MamaCare with B9
Advantages:
- maintains the health of the animal during pregnancy and lactation;
- contains all necessary vitamins and microelements;
- ensure the full development of the offspring.
Flaws:
- some reviews noted such a side effect as vomiting.
Which vitamins are best for dogs: how to choose
photo from website: ysatik.com
Useful vitamins and microelements are needed not only by people, but also by four-legged friends: special supplements are necessary for the full development of a growing puppy and maintaining the activity of adult dogs. Every day your pets experience severe stress and are exposed to negative environmental influences. Unique complexes developed by leading veterinarians and capable of becoming an additional source of energy for a playful and cheerful animal will help cope with the deficiency of nutrients. In our article you will find a rating of the most popular and effective vitamins for dogs.
Daily content of nutrients in the diet
Experts say that adequate and regular feeding is not enough to keep your pet alert and healthy. High energy costs must be replenished, but the owner cannot always feed the dog with meat products: the menu of some of the smaller brothers is subject to a strict diet.
This is interesting
Why meat? It contains the optimal amount of essential substances and microelements responsible for the proper development of the dog’s body: fatty acids, vitamins of various groups and other catalysts. However, heat treatment leads to the disappearance of useful biologically active components. The conclusion is disappointing: a boiled or fried chicken leg loses its value.
What should a caring owner do? Is it really possible to serve meat without pre-processing it? You cannot feed your pet raw legs and steaks: this will introduce pathogenic bacteria or parasites into the dog’s body.
photo from website: zoolandiya.org
Owners who constantly pamper their pets with soups and cereals think that a diet that is as close as possible to the owner’s menu can become a source of vitamins and essential amino acids. However, this is just a common misconception. The only advantage of such nutrition is maintaining the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. The penetration of beneficial substances into the dog’s body is again hampered by the processing of dishes: the content of vitamins in a daily serving of stew or oatmeal will be minimal.
Another option is dry food. Super-premium granules really solve the problem of replenishing vitality: they contain special complexes of vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet created according to a unique formula sounds tempting, but who can guarantee that the dog’s body fully accepts the individual components of an elite product? Often the animal refuses expensive food. In some cases, its regular use causes allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset.
What should those owners do who want to find the best option and choose an effective and tasty supplement for their four-legged pet? There are many special treats on the market that are high in vitamins and minerals necessary for strong bones, thick fur and developed muscles. Some of them are designed to eliminate or prevent various diseases.
What vitamins should I give my dog when feeding it naturally?
It will be easy for the owner to get lost in the long list: modern pharmacology includes more than 30 types of important substances. However, trying to provide your pet with everything at once will not lead to the desired result. This will only complicate the learning process. Combinations of some substances are completely contraindicated: one of them can suppress the action of the other and cause numerous side effects. It is necessary to determine the required dosage and make the intake of biologically active substances as balanced as possible.
photo from the site: www.sportobzor.ru
Vitamins of group A
Why is retinol needed? It affects reproductive function, ensures visual acuity and maintains good condition of the skin. The development of a strong backbone depends on it. Children who suffer from a lack of this vitamin are given grated carrots: it contains carotene, which is responsible for the formation of useful molecules. However, you should not put your animal on a vegetable diet. The known component will not bring any benefit: it is absorbed only in the human body.
What to give your dog? You can offer your pet sea fish, after first clearing it of fins and bones that could cause your dog to choke. The most common way is to add fish oil or special oil to your daily diet.
photo from website: okeydoc.ru
Vitamin B1
It is he who ensures the full functioning of the central nervous system and participates in metabolic processes. Thiamine is given for diseases associated with muscle damage. It is often prescribed to dogs suffering from digestive disorders. Its deficiency leads to weight loss, loss of appetite, cramps, and general weakness.
Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract reduce the absorption of this vitamin. B1 should be given to animals that have suffered severe nervous tension, physical exhaustion, or in case of excessive saturation of the diet with carbohydrates. It must be added to food during pregnancy and lactation.
Foods containing thiamine: vegetables, grains and fresh fruits.
photo from the site: la-kry.ru
Vitamin B2
Metabolic processes depend on it. The lack of this substance is accompanied by a sharp deterioration in the pet's condition: the hair on the back thins, weight decreases and visual acuity decreases, inflammatory processes occur that affect the mucous membranes.
Sources of riboflavin: its high content is in milk, fish, brewer's yeast and meat by-products - liver, kidneys, heart.
photo from the site: ru.depositphotos.com
Vitamin B3
Pantothenic acid regulates the functioning of the enzyme system. An excess of this substance in a dog’s body leads to dysfunction of the endocrine glands, hair loss and nervous disorders.
Pantothenic acid is best absorbed in combination with vitamins C and B12. It is found in yeast, bran, and nuts.
photo from website: belriem.org
Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine is necessary for dogs with a weakened nervous system. It also helps with increased physical activity. The active component is responsible for the proper metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids. Foods rich in pyridoxine: meat, cereals, liver, cheeses and fish.
photo from website: lediveka.ru
Vitamin B9 Folic acid is an important participant in metabolic processes. It also affects the stimulation of the sex glands. A lack of nutrients leads to the development of anemia, weight loss, and slow growth. Vegetables, fruits, buckwheat, and fish should be added to the diet of puppies and adult dogs.
photo from website: belusowa.ru
Vitamin C Ascorbic acid increases immunity, and it is better to give it in winter and spring. You can offer your pet fruits and vegetables. Add finely chopped greens to wet food or treat your dog to liver.
photo from the site: med-diet.ru
Vitamin D Lack of calciferol leads to rickets. That is why products containing it should always be on the menu of a growing puppy. Give your baby fish oil or oil-based vitamin D.
photo from website: belusowa.ru
Vitamin E Tocopherol is responsible for the full development of muscles and maintaining reproductive function. Its content is high in oils, cereals, yolks and cereals.
photo from website: belusowa.ru
Vitamin PP The second name of this substance is nicotinic acid. It helps cope with dermatitis and diseases associated with skin lesions. Veterinarians often prescribe it as a supplement for inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Sources: cheese, meat, yeast, fish, organ meats and legumes.
All of the listed vitamins for a dog must be supplied to its body through a natural diet. However, heat treatment destroys beneficial substances, and owners have to look for equally effective substitutes. We will try to understand the wide range of supplements for wool, bones, cartilage and general strengthening of the body.
Vitamins for dogs for immunity: which ones are better?
In autumn, winter and spring, the immune system of our four-legged friends needs increased protection. There are special products that, when added to the diet, will help your pet resist the cold while maintaining cheerfulness and activity.
photo from website: shop.aku.org
- Aminovit is a domestic product containing a complex of beneficial vitamins and amino acids. Available in the form of a reddish liquid. Indications for use include anemia and hypovitaminosis.
Important
This solution must be administered intramuscularly. If you are unable to administer the injections yourself, contact your nearest veterinary clinic.
photo from the site: dogsecrets.ru
- Gamavit is a herbal immunomodulator produced in the form of a solution that can be administered intramuscularly or diluted with water for subsequent drinking. Doctors often prescribe it to reduce the effects of intoxication. The drug is used for preventive and therapeutic purposes in infectious and parasitic diseases. It not only helps to increase the protective functions of the animal’s body, but also helps the dog cope with stress.
photo from the site: www.helvet.ru
- Elvestin is a drug with immunomodulatory properties. It normalizes metabolism and has an anti-inflammatory effect. The solution is dripped onto the tongue or mixed with food, added to water.
Vitamins for dogs for joints: reviews
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- Phytomins Veda - the authors of reviews on special sites call this supplement one of the best. To the delight of many animal lovers, dietary supplements have an affordable price. It comes in the form of round tablets that can be mixed with your usual dry food. Regular use helps strengthen tendons and joints.
photo from website: zoospa.by
- Kanvit Chondro is an effective vitamin for cartilage in dogs. A unique complex containing glucosamine sulfate and collagen hydrolysate has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps pets who have suffered joint injuries recover.
photo from website: zoo1.ru
- Hokamix Gelenk+ is a product consisting of medicinal herbs and active ingredients that affect the functioning of tendons and cartilage. The drug helps get rid of lameness, restores mobility and strengthens the ligamentous apparatus. The product helps prevent diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
The best dog vitamins for fur: reviews
photo from website: irecommend.ru
- Sanal BonBons - reviews from grateful customers have become the best confirmation of the effectiveness of this supplement. The drops contain algae and sheep fat. These components make the coat smooth and shiny, eliminate dandruff and strengthen the animal's immunity.
photo from website: zoo1.ru
- Excel Brevers is a vitamin complex, the regular use of which makes the hair thick and shiny. Copper, zinc and fish oil included in the unique formula return the coat to a beautiful and well-groomed appearance. Many owners crush the tablets before adding them to their dog's food.
photo from website: www.lintbells.com
- Yumega Boost is a drug that stimulates hair growth and improves skin condition. Contains yeast, fatty acids, lecithin, vitamins C and E. The product was developed specifically for pets participating in exhibitions. The complex of active substances helps restore the coat.
Bone vitamins for dogs: reviews
photo from website: irecommend.ru
The “multivitamin” bone is a special supplement that normalizes metabolic processes in the dog’s body. The high content of calcium, phosphorus and microelements helps strengthen bones and improve the pet's immunity. The B vitamins included in the composition affect the condition of the coat and skin.
Reviews from owners on special websites are contradictory. They all praise the bone for its effectiveness, noting the positive effect of the complex on the dog’s body. However, there are also owners who doubt the taste of the dietary supplement: the animals spat out the tablets or refused to chew them.
Selecting vitamin and mineral supplements is a complex process. Your dog may not like the look, size, or smell of a particular treat. However, it is necessary to enrich your pet’s diet with useful substances. Consult a veterinarian or talk to your friends who have been successfully feeding their dog harmless and effective tablets for a long time. By eliminating rejected options, you are sure to find a product that is ideal for your pet.
Farmavit Active
Another high-quality and well-proven multivitamin complex. The composition includes 11 vitamins and fish meal, due to which animals eat the prescribed portion of the drug without the slightest coercion. In addition, enzymes are used in production to improve the digestion process of dogs.
Unlike the previous one, this complex is approved for small breed animals of any age, and is suitable for elderly and pregnant dogs. As in the previous case, the product does not cause allergic reactions. The average dosage is one tablet per dog, in a course. It is better to consult your veterinarian about the duration of the latter.
