What Supplements Should I Give My Dog? Vet-Approved Advice

Jul 25, 2025

What Supplements Should I Give My Dog featured blog image by Holistapet. Shows a woman with a Collie dog sitting between her legs. The woman is holding up two generic supplement bottles.

Your dog deserves the best, and that includes the right supplements to keep their zoomies going strong. Answering the question, "What supplements should I give my dog?" isn't complicated when you know the essentials.

This guide will help you pick smart, simple options for a healthier, happier pup. Take notes and make your choice.

What Supplements Does My Dog Need for Daily Wellness?

A person's hand feeding a German Shepherd a fish oil supplement

Dogs need supplements that support their immune function, digestive system, skin health, and joint mobility every day. For example, essential vitamins like vitamin E and vitamin C help protect cells and promote healthy skin. When combined with a balanced diet, these supplements can work optimally and benefit dogs of all ages.

Nutrients Often Missing From Commercial Dog Food

Many commercial pet foods lack certain vitamins and fatty acids dogs need for full health. For example, vitamin D, vital for bone development, is often scant in the usual dog food. B vitamins, which support energy metabolism, can be insufficient, too. Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce puffiness and support skin and coat health, may not be present in enough amounts in some diets.

How To Spot Gaps in Your Dog's Diet

Dog owners can notice gaps when their canine companions show signs like a dull coat, low energy, or stiff joints. Watch for stomach upset or skin blemishes, too. These red flags may point to missing vitamins or fatty acids in your dog's food. Regular vet check-ins can help identify these gaps early.

What Supplements To Give Dogs at Different Life Stages

Dogs need different supplements as they grow. Here's a helpful guide as they go through different life stages:

Puppies. Pet owners should focus on balanced vitamin supplements for growth and brain development.
Adult Dogs. Go for supplements that support joint health, muscle growth, skin nourishment, and immune function.
Senior Dogs. Choose targeted dog vitamins that support heart health, aid brain function, reduce joint issues, and boost mobility.

Adjusting Supplement Plans as Your Dog Ages

As your canine companion ages, their needs change, and so should their supplements. Older dogs may need more joint support to help ease mobility issues and additional antioxidants like vitamin C to help reduce puffiness. Adjusting supplements accordingly supports your dog's body through the natural aging process, helping them live a healthy life well into their golden years.

Key Benefits of Dog Supplements

Dog supplements offer several benefits that help your furry friend stay active and healthy. These perks include:

Immune Support. Dog vitamins and targeted supplements help strengthen your dog's natural defenses against illnesses and infections.
Mobility. Ease stiffness and prevent further joint cartilage deterioration, aiding movement and flexibility.
Digestion. Promote healthy digestion and soothe the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Coat Health. Enhance skin health and give your pup's coat a shiny, healthy look.
Mood Balance. Help reduce anxious or upset behaviors for a calmer pup.

Most Common Types of Supplements for Dogs

Dog supplements in bottles with no labels (generic dog supplement bottles) in a group

Dog supplements come in different types, each targeting specific needs. The most popular options include:

Multivitamins
Joint Support
Skin & Coat
Digestive & Probiotics
Calming Support

Multivitamins

Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs daily. They help fill nutrient gaps in your pup's diet and support overall health.

For a great option, check out HolistaPet's Multivitamin Soft Chews. They deliver a balanced boost for dogs of all ages to stay energetic and strong. Our rich vitamin blend supports general wellness all day, every day.

Joint Support

Joint supplements help maintain healthy cartilage and reduce joint swelling. They support your pup's mobility and help ease stiffness, especially in aging dogs.

Fun fact: HolistaPet offers both CBD and non-CBD joint-supportive treats and chews to keep pups moving comfortably. You can't go wrong with beneficial ingredients like broad-spectrum CBD, glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric.

Skin & Coat

Supplements for skin and coat help reduce skin irritation and promote a shiny, healthy coat. Ingredients like fatty acids and vitamin E work together to soothe and nourish from the inside out

Did you know: Our Skin, Coat, & Nail Soft Chews support your dog's natural glow and skin comfort. They can benefit from the wonders of fish oil, aloe vera, ascorbic acid, and biotin.

Digestive & Probiotics

Digestive supplements support healthy digestion and help ease tummy upset. Probiotic supplements help balance the gastrointestinal tract by promoting good bacteria.

Pro tip: Our Probiotic Soft Chews offer a natural addition to your dog's wellness routine for optimum gut health. This product features a blend of 9 probiotic strains, a total of 3 billion CFU (colony-forming units).

Calming Support

Calming supplements help ease anxious or upset behaviors in dogs. Ingredients like CBD work to promote calm and relaxation without drowsiness.

For top-quality options, check out HolistaPet's calming CBD collection. We offer a variety that includes treats, oils, and capsules designed to keep your pup feeling calm, relaxed, and content. We use only broad-spectrum CBD, meaning no THC.

Natural vs. Synthetic: What's Best for Your Dog?

Natural supplements use plant-based ingredients that often provide gentle, well-tolerated benefits. Synthetic formulas offer precise dosing and consistent quality but may include additives. Choosing between them depends on your pet's needs and any sensitivities they might have.

How To Choose the Right Supplement for Your Dog

Choosing the right supplement starts with understanding your dog's unique needs. Look for products that match their age, diet, and health conditions. Always check labels for quality ingredients and avoid supplements with unnecessary fillers or additives.

Read Labels and Look for Third-Party Testing

Always read supplement labels carefully to know exactly what's inside. Third-party testing ensures products meet quality control standards and are free from contaminants. This extra step gives pet owners confidence in choosing safe, effective products.

Talk to Your Vet About Your Dog's Health Needs

Your veterinarian knows your pup's health best and can recommend supplements tailored to their needs. Discuss any current health issues and dietary gaps before starting new supplements, so you can support your dog safely and effectively.

HolistaPet's Line of Dog Supplements

HolistaPet offers clean, non-GMO, and vet-approved supplements made in the USA. Our formulas use quality ingredients designed to support your pup's health at every stage. Pet parents can trust us for reliable options that fit any wellness routine.

Explore Our Best-Selling Supplements

Holistapet Dog Supplements AD Product image of 3 Holistapet supplements

Check out our most popular picks, including our Multivitamin Soft Chews to support daily wellness and Joint Support Soft Chews to promote mobility. We also offer Skin, Coat, & Nail Soft Chews for better skin, Dental Sticks for fresher breath, and Probiotic Soft Chews for smoother digestion.

Explore Our Top-Rated Calming Support Options

Our calming line includes CBD Dog Treats for Anxiety, CBD Calming Chews, Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil, and Melatonin for Dogs. These products help soothe nervous behaviors and promote relaxation. They're perfect for pups needing extra calm during stressful moments.

Signs That Your Dog May Benefit From Supplements

Supplements can make a big difference when your pup shows certain health signs. These clues help you know when it's time to add extra support:

Lack of Energy. Your dog seems tired or less playful than usual.
Joint Stiffness. Movement feels slow or uncomfortable, especially after rest.
Skin Issues. You see dryness, redness, or rashes.
Poor Digestion. You observe stomach upset or irregular bowel movements.
Nervous Behavior. They show signs of anxiety or restlessness.

Can You Combine Different Supplements?

You can combine supplements safely, but it's important to avoid overloading your dog. Start with one product at a time and watch for any reactions. Mixing joint, digestive, and calming supplements often works well when balanced properly. Always consult your vet to guarantee safety.

How Long Do Dog Supplements Take to Work?

Most dog supplements start showing effects within four to six weeks. Some benefits, like improved digestion or mood balance, may appear sooner. Regular use helps your pup reach the desired benefits safely and effectively.

FAQ – Giving Dogs Supplements

Many pet parents have questions about adding supplements to their dog's routine. These common questions cover safety, effectiveness, and when to use supplements. Understanding the basics helps you make confident choices for your dog's health. Let's proceed.

Should I give my dog supplements even if they're healthy?

Yes, supplements can support overall wellness even in healthy dogs. These products help fill small gaps in their diet and maintain immune function, joint health, and skin quality. Think of supplements as an extra boost to keep your pooch thriving.

What's the best supplement for dogs with itchy skin?

Supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E help soothe skin irritation and reduce redness. Fatty acids support a healthy coat and help calm skin discomfort. Our Skin, Coat, & Nail Soft Chews are specifically designed to provide this targeted support naturally.

Do dogs need probiotics?

Yes, probiotics support healthy digestion by balancing the gastrointestinal tract. They help reduce digestive upset and promote nutrient absorption. Our Probiotic Soft Chews offer a natural addition to your dog's wellness routine for better gut health.

Are CBD supplements safe to combine with vitamins?

CBD supplements generally combine well with vitamins and other supplements. They offer calming support without interfering with nutrient absorption. Always introduce new products slowly and consult your vet to hit the right balance.

How often should I give supplements to my dog?

Most supplements work best when given daily, following the recommended dose on the label. Consistency helps your dog absorb nutrients and experience the full benefits. Always adjust based on your veterinarian's advice and your pup's specific needs.

Final Thoughts: Support Your Dog's Health With the Right Supplements

Choosing the right supplements helps your pup stay active, happy, and healthy. Focus on quality ingredients and products that fit your buddy's age and lifestyle.

HolistaPet makes supplementing simple with trusted, vet-approved options for every stage of life. Your best friend's journey to vitality and longevity starts here.