What are the best vitamins for your dog’s health?

To ensure vital organ function, healthy skin, and proper growth and development of dogs, they need specific vitamins. These vitamins also play a significant role in their mood and immune system.

There are different types of vitamins that provide various positive effects:

• Vitamin A: Essential for a dog’s growth, skin, coat, and vision.
• Vitamin C: Crucial for the immune system, bone development, and maintenance.
• Vitamin K: Plays a significant role in the circulatory system.
• Vitamin B: This group includes B1, B2, B3, B12, and others, vital for the immune system, nutrient absorption, skin, coat, and overall health.
• Vitamin D: Important for bone health and nutrient assimilation.
• Vitamin E: A natural antioxidant crucial for organ tissue formation and maintenance.

How to offer them without being spat out:

Administering pills or medications to dogs can be challenging, but there are several methods to try:

• Mix with food: Mixing the vitamins with your dog’s wet food is the easiest way to give them their medication. Feed each dog separately if you have more than one.
• The yes-but-no game: Hide the pill in a highly enticing treat. Take it away and give your dog a treat without the pill. Then, take the piece with the pill and play a game of bringing it close and withdrawing it repeatedly, as if you’re hypnotizing your dog before finally placing it in their mouth and letting them eat it.
• Empty capsules: If your dog detects the smell or taste of the pill even when mixed or hidden in other food, they may reject it. You can purchase empty gel capsules from any pharmacy and fill one with a bitter-tasting pill to prevent rejection.
• Directly placing the pill in the mouth: If you know where to place your hands, it will be easier to open your dog’s mouth. One hand should hold the upper jaw while the other pulls the lower jaw. Then, place a treat in the dog’s mouth. Let them eat it, then repeat, gradually introducing the pill.

What can vitamin deficiency cause?

A lack of vitamin supplements can lead to diseases or health issues that may have cruel consequences if not addressed in time. However, it’s crucial not to overdo vitamins and provide small proportions periodically (consult your trusted veterinarian).

Some of the diseases that may result from vitamin deficiency include:

• Arthritis and skeletal problems
• Oral diseases
• Hair loss
• Lack of energy
• Digestive issues

It’s highly recommended to visit your trusted veterinarian for a proper diagnosis of your dog’s problems and to receive a prescribed regimen of vitamins or supplements with the recommended frequency from the veterinarian.