Why Do Dogs Need Dietary Supplements?

Dogs are mammals just like humans so they have complex and advanced body systems that have similar requirements. The nutrients which are called essential are those which the body does not naturally produce so these are the ones that must be added to the regular diet in the form of supplements. These are special substances that are required in minute amounts by the body for specific functions that may greatly affect the health of the animal if found to be deficient. Here is a list of some important supplements that every dog needs as a part of its daily diet in order to remain fit.

Joint Supplements

Arthritis is an extremely painful ailment of the joints that is well known in humans. Dogs are also susceptible to it as their age increases with time. As time goes by, the soft material in between the spaces of the joints is worn out by constant wear and tear that takes place through movement and use. This is a natural process but if the useful compounds needed to maintain joint health are not provided, this wear and tear goes into an extreme state resulting in a lot of pain and eventual wastage of limb if not treated correctly. Active ingredients include glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM that save your dog from such suffering simply by existing in the form of dietary supplements. Glucosamine helps hydrate healthy joints by increasing the production of molecules that bind and hold water in the cartilage. Cartilage acts as a shock absorbing cushion.

Omega-3 Fatty acids

The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are known as good fats because these are the essential fats which the body does not produce naturally hence they are required in the dietary supplement list. They have a wide range of functions within the body including the creation of cell membranes, nervous system and maintenance of healthy eyes. Omega-6 fatty acids are actually found within the diet of dogs because dog food is usually manufactured from leftovers. Most dog supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids are marketed as skin and coat supplements because these fatty acids help maintain healthy skin and retention of proper moisture to avoid dry flaky skin and other such problems.

Pre- and probiotic supplements

Bacteria are usually synonymous with infectious diseases but as we all know there are good bacteria present within the body, particularly within a dog’s digestive system that aid in its proper functioning. Pre- and probiotic supplements contain such helpful bacteria that fight off the harmful bacteria and are a great addition to a dog’s regular diet. Lactobacillus and Bifido bacteria are two such useful bacteria that not only serve to keep the digestive system healthy but also aid in boosting the immune system, prevention of allergies and stomach problems like diarrhea.  Most of these supplements also contain great fiber content which is very helpful in peristalsis and proper digestion.

Digestive Enzymes

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the natural reactions occurring within the body and have specialized functions especially in the creation of particular products for special purposes. Enzymes are very specific in nature and can only function correctly in optimum temperature and pH conditions. The enzyme production within the dog’s body may slow down with age and the ones that could have been a part of its diet are destroyed in the extreme processing conditions that the enzymes are unable to withstand. The best sources of enzymes are unprocessed fruits, vegetables and other such natural products. The enzymes are extracted from such sources to manufacture supplements for a dog’s dietary requirements. Important enzymes include proteases, which break down proteins, amylases, which turn starch and other complex carbohydrates into simple monosaccharides, lipases, which turn fats into fatty acids and glycerol and cellulases that break down the complex cellulose fibers found in plant sources.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants, as the name clearly indicates, are those compounds which act against oxidizing agents because the addition of oxygen can often lead to break down of sensitive natural systems that are crucial to the proper working of the body. In particular, antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, which may be produced within the body as a result of certain reactions, which start to work against the balance of the body wreaking havoc if not contained. Antioxidants comprise of several classes of compounds including vitamins, flavonoids, carotenoids and minerals. Antioxidants have a widespread action within the body that helps to balance things out and create a stronger healthier body.

Therefore, the significance of dietary supplements must not be ignored as they boost your dog’s health, prevent diseases and help maintain its strong immunity system. Always ask a certified vet before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet. Make sure you purchase the highest quality supplements for your dog and keep the dosage as prescribed by the vet otherwise there could be adverse side effects. Dietary supplements for dogs may easily be purchased from online pet stores like www.lovemypets.com where a wide range is available according to age, gender and size that determine your dog’s requirements.