Does my dog need vitamins and supplements?
I’ve been thinking about giving my 5-year-old German Shepherd some supplements to help with his joints since I know his breed is prone to hip problems. Are there any specific supplements I should consider, and is it safe to start giving them to him without talking to the vet first?
What our expert says
As with human vitamins and supplements, there are quite a few available to give to our pets too. If you are thinking about supplements for your dog, make sure you read all the available information, including any medical reasons why your dog shouldn’t take the medication, side effects and research that backs up any claims.
There are a range of supplements aimed at specific medical conditions or ailments which can be purchased online or at your local pet store. Speak to your vet first if you feel your dog is uncomfortable or in distress with a medical condition before buying any products.
When used preventatively, supplements can be beneficial to dog breeds predisposed to health conditions, such as musculoskeletal issues, and hip dysplasia supplements specifically designed to support joints and mobility, can help with this.
Some supplements help relieve stress and anxiety and are recommended by pet behaviourists alongside behavioural modification to support training plans.
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