Remember what it was like to learn about vitamins for the first time? If you were like us, you likely took a long journey to acceptance. First, they were simply a reason to eat your veggies. “They’re full of vitamins,” your parents might have said. “When you eat them, you become big and strong.” Slowly, you came to see the wisdom in your parents’ words. Fast forward to now, and you’re scouring chemist aisles to meet your daily requirements of Vitamin C. Of course, now that you’re a pet parent, you may have begun to wonder about your dog’s dietary health needs. We have as well, which is why we set out to answer the question: “which vitamins does my dog need?”
Which vitamins does my dog need to remain healthy?
Protein helps our dogs’ muscles to repair and grow. Carbs give them fuel to run, play “fetch”, and be the furbabies we love. However, as with humans, dogs require vitamins to keep their bones, muscles, and organs running. For this reason, it’s crucial that we feature the following vitamins in their diets. While the needs of dogs and humans aren’t identical, you may recognise a few of the vitamin names on this list.
Vitamin A
A core component in carrots, Vitamin A nurtures strong vision in humans and dogs alike. Beyond improving eyesight, Vitamin A also bolster’s your pooch’s immune system and growth rate. Should you have a pregnant dog on your hands, Vitamin A will also support the growth of their puppy-to-be.
Vitamin B
This vitamin is really an enclave for a series of sub-vitamins, including B6, B12, and Niacin. Together, they serve an array of functions, including:
- breakdown of carbs for energy
- healthy enzyme function
- proper function of the nervous system and red blood cells
- immune system maintenance
- protein synthesis
For a source that provides access to multiple strands of Vitamin B, we suggest offal (namely, liver).
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent source of antioxidants – which, we know, has become something of a buzzword in recent times. There’s a reason we keep hearing it, though: they cull inflammation and keep your doggo feeling young. Since your dog creates Vitamin C in their livers, they’ll only need a little extra. By adding a small amount of broccoli to their diets, they’ll be set.
Vitamin D
Even though this one is served up by sunshine, we still felt we should include it on our list. A non-dietary vitamin, it allows your furry friend to retain robust bones and muscles.
Vitamins E & K
These two bad boys are fat-soluble, meaning the body absorbs them in a manner akin to fats. With Vitamins E & K, your pup will better be able to maintain healthy eyes, muscles, and *cough, cough* reproductive systems. Their blood will also keep its capacity to clot, which is crucial if they suffer a cut.
Which Vitamins Does My Dog Need in Supplement Form?
As is the case with humans, dogs best ingest vitamins through their food. To keep pooch is on top of their vitamin needs, ensure they enjoy a balanced diet of meats, dog-friendly veggies, and the right carbs.
Are you looking for a diet that gives your furbaby the right balance of vitamins? Check out Mad Paws Dinner Bowl today!
