Dog Vitamins: Shiny Coat, Bright Eyes, Lots of Energy, Overall Good Health

Sometimes, try as we might, our dog's diet simply does not provide him with enough vitamins. There is, however, a possibility of overdosing vitamins in your dog and can be particularly toxic. Excess vitamin A in the system can cause bone and joint pain, brittle bones and dry skin. Too much vitamin D can cause the dog to develop very dense bones as well as soft tissue or joint calcification. Typically, it is only necessary to supplement with vitamins unless a vitamin deficiency is diagnosed by a veterinarian. Check with your vet for guidance on giving your dog the appropriate vitamins that are just right for his needs.

If you do decide to give your dog vitamins and your veterinarian has given you the go-ahead, there are some things that you should keep in mind. First, you should always keep the vitamins, just as all other medications, out of the reach of children. Store the vitamins at room temperature. Protect them from heat, light and moisture.

Daily Formula Vitamins

Daily formula vitamins are designed to supplement a dog's vitamin and mineral needs. This formula is for everyday use. This type of vitamin is a good supplement for dogs whose owners feed occasional table scraps, doggie bags from restaurants or homemade food. By adding a daily formula vitamin to your dog's daily diet you can make sure that your dog is getting all the important vitamins and minerals that he needs to fill his daily nutritional requirements. Many dog vitamins offer added ingredients that aid in digestion and can reduce odors. Read the ingredients list to make sure that your dog's vitamins are nutritionally balanced.

Immune Boost Vitamins

Dogs are constantly exposed to germs and bacteria that can attack their immune system. Immune boost vitamins support a dog's immune system to fight airborne germs. Many also provide anti oxidants which provide long term health benefits to your dog. When a dog is exposed to other dogs, through play or just passing interaction, they can contract communicable diseases that the other dogs may be carrying, whether they exhibit symptoms or not. Immune boost vitamins help the dog's body fight off diseases and things that can make him sick. Your vet can tell you if this type of vitamin is right for your dog, particularly if your dog has a compromised immune system.

Joint Formula Vitamins

Certain breeds of dogs can be susceptible to certain hip and joint problems. Additionally, as dogs age, they can be more prone to joint problems. Adding joint formula vitamins to your dog's diet can help promote and maintain healthy joints. Many formulas offer ingredients such as glucosamine, which helps rebuild cartilage, chondroitin which helps protect and nourish cartilage and MSM which helps relieve pain and stiffness.

Talking with your vet will help you determine if a formula like this would be good for your dog.