Vitamins and medication have a place in dog care not only when health problems have already arisen, but they also work as an effective form of prevention. Give your pet a happy, long life and find the right dietary supplements. 

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Choosing vitamins and medication for dogs

The purpose of dietary supplements is to give the animal what it genuinely lacks at that moment. This means vitamins and medication aren't always needed. And when they are, choosing the right one is essential for it to actually serve its purpose. So how do you choose?

1. By issue

Genetic predisposition, the season, the dog's breed, its age and current condition ⁠–⁠⁠ these are all factors you can use as a starting point when choosing.

• Older dogs, puppies of large breeds, or pets that are put under extra strain will appreciate joint supplements that support a dog's musculoskeletal system. 
• If your canine friend suffers from poor digestion, frequent diarrhoea or vomiting, look for vitamins that support digestion in dogs. Various probiotics that restore the gut microflora are particularly popular. 
• Supplements to support skin and coat in dogs are also available — reach for these if your pet's coat is dull, thinning, or if skin problems such as dryness appear. These supplements often come in the form of oils with essential fatty acids. 
• If your four-legged companion struggles with car journeys, New Year's fireworks or other stressful situations, get them calming supplements for dogs.
• For bad breath or excessive tartar build-up, supplements for healthy teeth and gums can help.
• Alongside enough exercise in the fresh air, you can boost your pet's immunity, for example after a course of antibiotics or a mentally demanding period, with immune-support vitamins. 
• For reduced kidney function, problems with the urogenital system, or as prevention against urinary stones, you can add dietary supplements for kidneys and urinary stones. 

Also available are supplements for puppies, as well as a special type for owners who feed their pets a BARF diet. 

2. By form

You can also choose based on form. Most commonly you'll come across tablets, although your dog will probably refuse them. A popular way to give them is therefore combined with a favourite treat. It's a little easier with oils. These can be dripped straight onto kibble or dog treats. However, to keep track of the dosage, avoid dripping it into water. With regular dog food you can also mix in powders and pastes, another popular form of nutritional supplement.

3. By composition

Although vitamins and medication often already state their purpose in the name, it's worth checking that the composition actually matches. Each problem calls for different substances, whether that's collagen for cartilage, milk thistle for proper liver function, or sea algae for dental health. 

If you're not sure what to choose, it's always best to ask your vet, who knows your dog and can best judge what's missing from their diet.