Many owners of dogs believe that all that is necessary to maintain a healthy dog is a good dog food and exercise. While it is certainly true that commercial dog foods have greatly improved digestibility and nutritional value when compared to pet foods of years past, dog vitamin supplements are an important component of your dog’s health. Like humans, dogs can live a longer, happier life as a result of the health benefits that vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provide.

Vitamins are even more important to dogs than humans as they don’t have the luxury of differentiating the types of foods consumed. More veterinarians and dog lovers than ever recognize that the key to pet health is a strong, healthy immune system and the prevention of premature aging and illness. Dog vitamins are an incredibly powerful tool that can help your dog live a happier, healthier life.

Dog vitamins have a host of benefits when it comes to your pet’s health. Antioxidant rich  vitamin supplements fight cancer-causing free radicals, while at the same time bolstering  certain bodily systems that tend to deteriorate with age. Some of the signs of deterioration that come with age include weak bones and cartilage, poor eyesight, and a sluggish immune  system. Dog vitamin supplements will help to counter act these problems.

Dog vitamins have been shown to increase a dog’s lifespan.  In fact, research shows that starting a vitamin regimen early in your dog’s life will yield the greatest benefits.  Dogs who began supplementation with vitamins while they were puppies showed better health and resistance to illness across the lifespan.

It is important that your dog’s individual needs are taken into account when choosing a dog vitamin supplement.Dog that are older need different nutrients than younger ones and active dogs have different needs than inactive dogs.  Discuss your dog’s needs with your vet, and make sure you research the effects on your dog’s health of each individual component of the supplement that you choose.  Choose supplements that contain all natural ingredients, and avoid fillers and artificial ingredients.  

A good supplement will include, at a minimum, vitamin A to fight free radicals; B complex vitamins for a healthy immune system, improved liver function, red blood cell production, antibody formation, and healthy eyes, mouth, skin, and coat; and vitamin C for improved immune function.Other helpful nutrients include chondroitin, Omega fatty acids and glucosamine.These help maintain a healthy, shiny coat, rebuild cartilage and keep your dog’s skin healthy.

In most instances, pet owner notice obvious improvements in their dog’s health and behavior within mere weeks of starting them on a dog vitamin regimen. The most obvious effects are increased energy, stamina and a healthier coat. But, the most important benefits can’t be observed right away. These include counteracting the effects of old age and prolonging your dog’s life. This allows your pet to live as long and comfortable a life as possible. You’ll be able to enjoy your dog’s company longer, while saving money on the trips to the vet that you won’t have to take.

Take control of your dog’s health and starth him on a regimen that includes a quality dog vitamin supplement. Even though this is an additional expense right now, it will pay off for you in the long run by reducing unnecessary trips to the vet. Most importantly, you will be able to enjoy your beloved pets companionship for the maximum possible time.