If you’re a dog owner, you may already be familiar with some of the many canine dietary supplements available. Supplements are one of the most popular and trusted ways to support your dog’s overall health, and owners use them to address a number of different issues, including arthritis, dull coats and itchy skin, and anxiety. In fact, many types of supplements are recommended by veterinarians. For over two decades, SeaPet has been a reliable source of high-quality nutritional supplements for dogs. Our products include omega-3-rich fish oils, joint supplements, and CBD oils. Every one of our products is formulated especially for dogs and is processed in a manner that preserves vital nutrients. If you want to learn more about the perks of supplementing your dog’s diet with affordable premium-quality supplements, keep reading.
How do dietary supplements promote my dog’s overall good health?
Today’s dog food doesn’t typically supply all of the nutrients that your furry friend needs, so many owners turn to natural supplements to fill in any nutritional gaps. Owners choose to use supplements for all types of reasons, from pumping up the shine on their dog’s coat to easing canine anxiety and arthritis symptoms. Supplements are a safe way to support good canine health, a fact supported by numerous studies. But just like you would for your own supplements, it’s important to look for high-quality products when you’re buying for your canine companion. After all, you want to make sure you’re setting your dog up for success.
Are there supplements that help with dog anxiety?
If your dog exhibits symptoms of canine anxiety, there are many different things you might try to relieve their stress, like white noise machines or prescription antianxiety medications. Many owners are turning to CBD, an extract that’s noted for its natural antianxiety qualities. In fact, many pet parents are turning away from traditional medical therapies for their pets. One report showed that over two-thirds of dog owners have tried alternative treatments. Nutraceuticals like CBD are one of the most popular choices for dog anxiety.
How is CBD oil produced?
Cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), are extracted from hemp or cannabis. Once the CBD is extracted, it’s blended with a neutral, food-grade oil. Cannabinoids interact with the central nervous system’s receptors to help it maintain a healthy, balanced state. CBD doesn’t contain any tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. That’s the cannabinoid that’s known for giving marijuana its “buzz”. CBD is unique among the hundreds of cannabinoids present in cannabis — it’s inert, so humans and canines alike can enjoy its many benefits without feeling any psychoactive effects.
Are there natural alternatives to dog arthritis drugs?
Yes! There are several different supplements that owners who want to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis give to their dogs, including shark cartilage powder and omega-3 fish oils.
Shark cartilage powder is a non-toxic, all-natural substance that’s rich in three chemical compounds that are found in healthy joint cartilage: chondroitin sulfate, angiogenesis-inhibiting proteins, and glucosamine. These compounds are said to promote cartilage elasticity, water retention, and the body’s own ability to heal articular cartilage. These qualities support healthy joint tissues, which helps to provide shock absorption and ensure sufficient cushioning between joints.
Omega-3 fish oils contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are a natural source of EPA and DHA, two compounds that are beneficial for dogs of all ages. EPA acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps to manage blood flow, while DHA boosts the immune system. Though these fatty acids are vital to your dog’s health, dogs don’t produce enough omega-3s on their own and modern pet foods don’t include enough omega-3s to make up the balance.
Are natural dietary supplements safe for my dog?
The answer is a resounding “Yes!” However, it’s important to note that just because they’re natural doesn’t mean you can be lax about dosage. In general, you always want to start with the smallest suggested dose for your dog’s weight class and titrate gradually. Some supplements like shark cartilage and omega-3 fish oils have a “loading period”, where a higher dose is given initially to help build up a solid baseline before reducing the dose to a maintenance level.
You’ll also want to speak with your vet before choosing a canine diet supplement to ensure that it won’t interfere with any medications or trigger any allergic reactions. And of course, for any medication – even natural supplements! – it’s important to read the package directions, speak with your vet, and above all, pay attention to your pet’s reactions.
Do dietary supplements like omega-3 fish oil, shark cartilage powder, or CBD for dogs have side effects?
Since all of these substances are completely natural, they’re nearly nontoxic. However, you still need to exercise care. Before you add any supplements to your dog’s diet, make sure to consult with your vet to be sure it’s appropriate for your furry friend’s current situation. If your dog experiences any adverse effects, discontinue use and ask your vet for guidance. Here are some of the most common side effects for each:
- CBD: Since scientific studies on CBD are in progress, the side effects of CBD on dogs are largely anecdotal. Large amounts of CBD in dogs can lead to minor side effects just like those experienced by humans: decreased saliva production and sleepiness, to name two. If this happens, vets typically recommend reducing your dog’s dose.
- Shark Cartilage: If your dog has a shellfish allergy or is pregnant or nursing, avoid shark cartilage. Higher doses of shark cartilage are thought to cause fatigue, and again, a reduction in the amount of shark cartilage frequently resolves any issues.
- Omega-3 Fish Oil: Because of fish oil’s source, the #1 side effect reported by pet owner is – you guessed it – fishy breath. Some owners also find that their dogs experience loose stools or diarrhea after larger amounts.
Where can I buy dietary supplements for dogs?
For over twenty years, SeaPet has been a trusted resource for the best canine dietary supplements. Just like you, we’re pet owners, too. We offer a wide range of CBD oils, shark cartilage powder, and omega-3 fish oils, and we’d be happy to talk you through the supplements that could benefit your pet (of course, always consult with your vet!). When you’re looking for a reliable source that always offers the best in pet nutrition, turn to SeaPet.
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/pets-dog-corgi-cute-4415649/
