The use of supplements is on the rise, not only for humans but also for our furry companions. While a balanced diet remains fundamental in meeting your pet's nutritional requirements, supplements may play a valuable role in addressing specific deficiencies.
CBD for dogs and supplements with glucosamine, fatty acids, or multivitamins may be beneficial for pets facing the challenges of natural aging or young puppies with increased dietary needs during their developmental stages.
With this in mind, we have curated a selection of our best dog supplements on the market to improve your pet's nutrition and enhance its quality of life.
Best dog supplements: a shortlist
- BATCH — overall best chew for pets with CBD
- CBDPure — best affordable product with CBD for pets
- Real Mushrooms — best pet supplement for stress relief
- NuLeaf — best oil with cannabidiol for pets
- Gussy's Gut — best food supplement for dogs to support digestive health
- Wild Earth — best supplement to support the immune system of dogs
- Ruff Greens — best multivitamin supplement for dogs
- Rusty's Pet Essentials — best dog supplement for joint health
Comparing the top dog supplements
| Product | Price | Average serving | Total amount per package | Main Ingredients | Best for | Vegan |
| BATCH | $59.99* | 1.25 treat | 30 chews | CBD, glucosamine, and chondroitin | Stress and joint support | Yes |
| CBDPure | $24.99 | 1 and a half drops | 60 servings | CBD | Overall wellness | Yes |
| Real Mushrooms | $34.95 | 1 chew | 60 chews | Beta-glucan | Stress | Yes |
| NuLeaf | $49.00* | 2 drops | 150 servings | CBD | Hip and joint support | Yes |
| Gussy's Gut | $37.00* | 2 teaspoons | 50 teaspoons | Multivitamins | Digestion | Yes |
| Wild Earth | $30.00 | 2 chews | 60 chews | Organic mushroom blend, fructooligosaccharide, digestive enzyme blend, and probiotics | Digestion | Yes |
| Ruff Greens | $79.95 | 1 teaspoon | 28 tablespoons | Multivitamins, digestive enzymes, and probiotics | Digestion and joint support | Yes |
| Rusty's Pet Essentials | $34.99* | 2 chews | 170 chews | Glucosamine, chondroitin, and wild salmon oil | Hip and joint support | Yes |
* — prices may vary depending on the package size and number of units.
Top 8 supplements for dogs: detailed reviews
Navigating the dog supplement market can be challenging due to the abundance of brands and the absence of regulation.
Therefore, we have conducted a comprehensive review and compiled products containing science-backed ingredients like glucosamine, fatty acids, and multivitamins. These ingredients may play a role in enhancing the diets of dogs with deficiencies or those requiring additional support.
1. BATCH — best CBD treat for dogs
For those seeking a product to aid with pet stress, Batch Pet Treats may be a good match. Crafted grain-free and with a palatable chicken flavor, it may provide relief in moments of distress, such as fireworks or separation anxiety.
The treats feature CBD and other added ingredients, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, to help support animal wellness. While cannabidiol’s suggested anxiolytic properties may help to soothe anxiety in pets, glucosamine and chondroitin have been associated with pain relief and joint health.
Batch excels in brand transparency, undergoing stringent guidelines on the manufacturing and production of the treats — delivering a quality product with comprehensive testing suitable for both cats and dogs.
The brand recommends 3-5 mg of CBD per every 10 lbs, even though it may vary depending on the pet’s weight:
| Weight | Serving |
| Under 10 lbs (4 kg) | 0.25 treat |
| 11-20 lbs (5–9 kg) | 0.50 treat |
| 21-50 lbs (6–22 kg) | 1.25 treat |
| 51-100 lbs (23–45 kg) | 2 treats |
2. CBDPure — most budget-friendly CBD product for pets
Due to the lack of regulation on the pet market, many brands avoid informing about their manufacturing and testing practices, leaving pets and their owners in the dark. CBDPure refuses to indulge in these unethical practices, delivering full-spectrum CBD oil with full disclosure of ingredients and comprehensive testing.
The brand features 3.3 mg of CBD to help support the well-being of cats and dogs. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant suggested to interact with pet’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates various physiological processes in the body, including stress, sleep, and pain. Consequently, CBD may have a positive impact on the action of this system.
It is available for $24.99, even though users can also choose other bottle options.
3. Real Mushrooms — best pet supplement to manage stress
Mushroom Relax Pet Chews offer a unique formula that harnesses the soothing properties of beta-glucan to alleviate pet stress and promote their overall well-being.
Tested by third-party labs and free from grains and fillers, this product is an ideal choice for supporting dogs during periods of distress. This supplement is made with lion's mane and reishi mushrooms, both sourced from Nammex Supply, a reputable company dedicated to providing mushrooms free from heavy metals and microbial contamination.
The treats contain 80 mg of mushrooms and added ingredients like L-Theanine and L-Tryptophan, which may contribute to inducing relaxation and reducing distress in pets. Among the enriched formula, beta-glucan stands out for its potential metabolic and immunological benefits.
The brand recommends that dogs consume 1 chew for every 20–40 pounds (9–18 kg) of body weight daily, or as advised by your veterinarian.
It is available for $34.95 and includes 60 servings per package.
4. NuLeaf Naturals — best CBD oil for pets
NuLeaf Naturals delivers a Pet CBD Oil engineered to alleviate anxiety symptoms in those pets facing heightened stress. The oil does not only help soothe anxiety feelings but may be a good companion to support those aging pets facing mobility issues.
NuLeaf Naturals’ hemp is extracted and cultivated in Colorado under top-notch quality standards. Following eco-friendly agricultural practices and a CO2 extraction process, the oil is enriched with a variety of natural cannabinoids and terpenes. Moreover, the brand undergoes third-party testing of all of its products.
The product boasts 900 mg of full-spectrum hemp extract, but individuals can also choose two other potency options — 300 mg and 1800 mg of CBD per bottle.
It is available for $49.00 and includes a 60-day return policy.
5. Gussy's Gut — best pet supplement to aid with digestion
Gussy's Gut Fermented Organic Superfoods is a supplement that combines 19 fermented foods to support dog's digestion and vitality. Made by in-house experts and freeze-dried to preserve all the nutrients in its organic ingredients, the brand delivers uncompromising quality to the dog food market.
These supplements are handcrafted in small batches and sourced from sustainable farmers. Additionally, they are free from herbicides or pesticides, adhering to high production standards. Even the salt used by the brand is ancient seabed salt from Utah, free from pollutants.
Gussy contains 180 nutrients to boost dog nutrition, including turmeric, broccoli, and dandelion, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Broccoli, in particular, is rich in glucosinolates, flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals, all of which have potential antioxidant properties.
The recommended serving is 1 teaspoon per 10–20 pounds (4–9 kg) of the dog's weight. Owners can sprinkle it on top of raw, kibble, or wet food and add water to hydrate the ingredients. The dosage is estimated based on weight:
| Weight | Serving |
| 10 lbs (4 kg) | ½ teaspoon |
| 20 lbs (9 kg) | 1 teaspoon |
| 40 lbs (18 kg) | 2 teaspoons |
| 60 lbs (27 kg) | 3 teaspoons |
| 80 lbs (36 kg) | 4 teaspoons |
It is available for $37.00 and includes 50 servings per pack.
6. Wild Earth — best supplement to boost the immune system of pets
Wild Earth’s Immunity & Digestion Dog Supplements are designed to support pet immunity through a combination of active ingredients such as mushrooms, enzymes, and probiotics, promoting improved digestion and fiber support for dogs.
With a plant-based formula rooted in cruelty-free and high-quality ingredients, Wild Earth strives to create a sustainable product that benefits both animals and the environment. Their recipe incorporates a blend of mushrooms, including reishi, cordyceps, and chaga, renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties.
These supplements also feature a probiotic blend aimed at gut health, including Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus probiotic strains. These strains are associated with improvements in the immune system, stress reduction, and relief from diarrhea.
Wild Earth recommends starting with half the suggested dose and gradually increasing it to the recommended daily amount. Owners can choose to split the serving between morning and evening if desired. The daily serving is based on the dog’s weight:
| Weight | Serving |
| Up to 25 lbs (11 kg) | 1 chew |
| 26–75 lbs (12–34 kg) | 2 chews |
| Over 75 lbs (34 kg) | 3 chews |
It is available for $30.00 and includes a 30-day guarantee policy.
7. Ruff Greens — best vitamin supplement for pets
Ruff Greens VitaSmart supplements, crafted in the USA and meticulously monitored in FDA-registered facilities, offer a formula with high-quality ingredients free from harmful substances. Additionally, these supplements hold cGMP certification and do not contain any artificial flavors and colors.
The supplements introduce a highly concentrated blend of fruits, vegetables, and digestive enzymes to aid in dog’s digestion and joint health. Among the list of ingredients, minerals like iron or magnesium stand out for their properties in promoting muscle growth and increasing energy levels.
The brand encourages dog owners to incorporate the supplement into their pet's daily diet based on their preferences, whether given by hand or sprinkled on top of food. The dosage should be considered concerning dog’s weight:
| Weight | Serving |
| Up to 40 lbs (18 kg) | 1 tablespoon |
| Over 40 lbs (18 kg) | 2 tablespoons |
It is available for $79.95 and includes 28 servings for standard dogs.
8. Rusty's Pet Essentials — best supplement to support dog mobility
Rusty's Hip & Joint Support supplements are crafted with a blend of organic ingredients aimed at enhancing the health of dogs, especially those in need of additional support for their hips and joints.
These treats are sourced in the USA and handcrafted in their Florida facilities, guaranteeing the absence of harmful substances or fillers in their formula.
The supplements are specially tailored for elderly dogs and incorporate ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, renowned for their potential to support cartilage formation. Additional active components include organic turmeric and wild salmon oil, which are aimed at boosting canine mobility and alleviating discomfort.
Rusty recommends daily supplement consumption for dogs of all breeds, with dosage determined by the dog's weight:
| Weight | Serving |
| Under 10 lbs (4 kg) | 1 chew |
| 10–30 lbs (4–13 kg) | 2 chews |
| 31–60 lbs (14–27 kg) | 3 chews |
| 61–90 lbs (28–41 kg) | 4 chews |
| Over 90 lbs (41 kg) | 5 chews |
It is available for $34.99 and includes 170 chews per bottle.
How did we choose the best supplements for dogs?
We have compiled some key criteria to consider when it comes to selecting the best dog supplements. Our criteria aim to provide all the essential information to help owners find the perfect product for their canine companion.
| Price | Science-backed ingredients | Lab-tested | Adequate dosage | Manufacturing practices |
| $24.99–$79.95 | High quality ingredients backed by scientific research | Ingredients align with the label and are free from harmful substances | Quantities of ingredients tailored to your dog's breed and size | Full disclosure of production practices and ingredient origins |
- Price. We assessed the quality of various dog supplements and conducted a price comparison.
- Science-backed ingredients. Animal supplements currently exist in a regulatory gray area, with neither the FDA nor the American Veterinary Medical Association providing specific guidelines. Therefore, we have chosen products containing high-quality and science-backed ingredients that may support your dog's health.
- Lab-tested. We chose supplements with ingredients that undergo testing to ensure alignment with label claims, along with additional certification provided by third-party labs.
- Adequate dosage. Different dogs may require varying dosages depending on their health condition, size, breed, and other factors. We've selected brands and products to accommodate the diverse needs of dogs.
- Transparent manufacturing practices. We evaluated brand transparency and certifications to ensure that products adhere to good manufacturing practices and production processes.
Why should you consider giving supplements to your dog?
Dogs, like humans, require a balanced diet to maintain a good quality of life. Nevertheless, certain dogs may face increased nutritional requirements due to aging, joint problems, deficiencies, stress, and other particular circumstances. In these cases, supplements may be an optimal choice to nurture and enhance their wellness:
- Nutritional deficiencies. Some animals may not receive adequate nutritional support from conventional feed. Dietary supplements for dogs should be considered to support their health and mitigate any potential deficiencies.
- Mobility. As dogs age, their joint health may suffer, leading to discomfort and mobility difficulties. For this reason, many supplements feature glucosamine and chondroitin in their formulas. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and anticatabolic properties that may help to promote joint health and alleviate pain.
- Digestive problems. Supplements for digestive health frequently feature probiotic strains like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus to alleviate gut discomfort. Some research suggests that the administration of probiotics may support the balance of the intestinal microbiota, alleviate inflammation, and support immune function. However, further research is needed to elucidate its mechanism of action.
- Coat and skin health. Supplements with ingredients such as flaxseed or Omega-3 fatty acids may potentially improve coat and skin health. A limited study from 2001 on the use of flax seeds and sunflower seeds showed temporary improvement in dogs’ skin and hair coat.
- Stress and anxiety. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in the cannabis plant, is suggested to have anxiolytic properties. For this reason, supplementation with CBD may help to soothe dogs in distress, especially during fireworks, vet visits or car trips. Additionally, other alternatives like CBD may also help induce relaxation and enhance dog's well-being.
However, before introducing any supplement into a dog's diet, consulting with a veterinarian is paramount. Neither the FDA nor the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) regulates animal supplements, making it crucial for a veterinarian to determine the correct dosages and find products that will be safe, effective, and of good quality.
Supplements for puppies vs. senior dogs
Senior dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs and require different dosages and ingredients in their supplements:
Supplements for senior dogs
Elderly dogs often contend with age-related conditions such as arthritis, obesity, and digestive issues. Common ingredients for senior dogs include:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint and mobility problems
- Probiotics for digestive health
- Omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat health
- Multivitamins to address potential deficiencies
Supplements for puppies
On the other hand, puppies may benefit from supplements to support their growth, particularly in developing bones and joints. Products for puppies often contain:
- Calcium to support bone and teeth development
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to support brain and vision development
- Probiotics to aid with digestion and immune support
- Multivitamins to mitigate deficiencies
In any case, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best nutritional supplements for dogs based on your pet's specific needs.
Key ingredients in dog’s supplements
The FDA does not screen supplements for dogs, which opens the door for numerous brands to partake in unethical practices and incorporate ingredients that may lack proven benefits. Therefore, it is important to opt for providers that select ingredients with scientific research to enhance wellness in canine companions. Some of the most optimal ones include:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin. Both are found in cartilage and are believed to have promising potential to aid mobility and joint issues.
- Probiotics. Living microorganisms present in cultured milk and fermented food. They are suggested to have a myriad of benefits for both humans and animals. Dogs with digestive disorders may benefit from the consumption of certain probiotic strains.
- Multivitamins. Some vitamins are potent antioxidants that can help fight free radicals and support the immune system of dogs. Moreover, they may also be beneficial to combat certain nutritional gaps.
- Fatty acids. Supplements with unsaturated fatty acids may have some anti-inflammatory effects to support heart, kidney, and skin health.
- Calcium. This ingredient may be beneficial in supporting dogs' bone health.
- L-theanine, L-tryptophan, cannabidiol (CBD). These ingredients show promise to aid stress in dogs. Supplements boasting some of these compounds may support dogs in certain stressful circumstances, like a visit to the veterinarian.
How to choose the right supplements for dogs?
The pet market is overcrowded with many ingredients, formats, and flavors, introducing some challenges to selecting the right match for their companion. For this reason, we have compiled some key criteria to consider when choosing a supplement:
| Ingredients | Dosage | Third-party testing | Organic vs. synthetic | Format |
| Depending on your dog's needs, you may want to consider supplementation with glucosamine, chondroitin, probiotics, fatty acids, CBD, or vitamins to support various health concerns. | Consider choosing an optimal dosage depending on your dog’s weight. | Opting for formulas that undergo testing is essential to ensure safe ingredient quantities and the absence of toxic substances. | Organic supplements are created without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or genetic engineering (GMOs). In contrast, synthetic supplements are lab-produced. The choice is yours to select the most optimal one for your dog’s needs. | Consider the most suitable format for your dog’s needs. While some animals may enjoy the flavor of treats, other pets may prefer to integrate the supplement with their daily food. |
Potential side effects of dog supplements
Although supplements can be an integrative part of veterinary care, there are many concerns about the safety, efficacy, and quality control of these products. However, most supplements for dogs on the market are generally safe, with few side effects. Some of them encompass:
- Allergies. It is essential to review formulations and ensure that every ingredient matches your dog's dietary requirements. If your dog experiences an allergic reaction following supplement consumption, consulting with a veterinarian is a must.
- Restlessness. Some supplements with CBD or herbal compounds may lead to behavioral changes in some dogs. For this reason, owners should monitor their dogs after introducing a supplement to their diet.
- Interaction with other drugs. If your dog is currently taking medication, it is paramount to exercise caution and consult with a vet about the consumption of certain ingredients and their potential interaction with medication.
- Digestive problems. Some ingredients, like probiotics, may cause mild digestive discomfort in dogs, especially when introduced to their diet.
How to introduce new dog supplements to your dog's diet?
Dogs should take nutritional supplements for pets if they are facing deficiencies or require additional support for specific health conditions. In cases where a balanced diet already provides all essential vitamins and minerals, supplements and multivitamins may not be necessary.
When introducing supplements, it's crucial to do so gradually to minimize any potential discomfort or adverse reactions in pets. This process should be guided by a veterinarian to assess the necessity and select the most suitable supplements for your dog. Owners should thoroughly review product labels to understand the best practices for administration.
Best dog supplements: conclusion
Dietary supplements for dogs can enhance their well-being and address specific nutritional deficiencies. Common ingredients like vitamins, enzymes, or probiotics may aid in supporting their digestive, joint, and coat health.
A balanced diet is the key to a good quality of life for a dog, and pet owners should ensure that their furry friends get all the necessary vitamins and minerals in their diet.
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FAQ
Are supplements safe for all dog breeds?
It depends. Certain nutrition supplements for dogs may raise concerns regarding the safety and quality control of their formulas, particularly in terms of dosage. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult with a veterinarian to select the appropriate product and dosage for your dog.
Can I mix supplements with dog food?
It varies. Some health supplements for dogs should be taken separately from food, while others are best absorbed when mixed with dog food. Moreover, some supplements may have a bitter or unfavorable taste, and mixing them with food can help with the administration.
How often should I give my dog these supplements?
It depends. Some brands recommend daily intake, while others suggest a more sporadic consumption. In any case, it is always important to discuss the dosage with a vet, taking into consideration your dog's health condition, eating habits, activity levels, and more.
Are nutritional supplements for dogs really worth it?
A balanced diet should ideally provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs. However, certain life stages or conditions may necessitate additional support through supplements to meet increased nutrient requirements.
5 resources
- Nutrition Today. Veterinary Pet Supplements and Nutraceuticals.
- Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Review of dietary supplements for the management of osteoarthritis in dogs in studies from 2004 to 2014.
- Animals. Alpha-Lipoic Acid as a Nutritive Supplement for Humans and Animals: An Overview of Its Use in Dog Food.
- Open Veterinary Journal. Glucosamine and chondroitin use in canines for osteoarthritis: A review.
- Archives of Animal Nutrition. Dog food production using curcumin as antioxidant: effects of intake on animal growth, health and feed conservation.
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