Natural Supplements for Dogs [Top 10 for Joint Care, Digestion, and More]

Before you brush off natural supplements for dogs as some New Age nonsense, you'll want to hear us out. The research is in, and the anecdotal evidence speaks for itself. Dogs nationwide are overcoming jitters, tension, aches, and other discomforts thanks to these natural compounds. We took a look at the top 10 natural supplements for dogs to see what all the hype is about.

 

Supplements can give your pet the extra pep they need to get through the day — whether that's more energy, joint support, or general nutrition. We've selected some quality supplements worth trying, and this article will go in-depth to explain each one.

 

 

What are Natural Supplements for Dogs?

A supplement is an additional, beneficial substance that supports your dog's health. When we describe a supplement as "natural," we mean that the substance comes from a natural source and isn't synthesized in a lab. These supplements harness potent natural ingredients that fight inflammation, strengthen immunity, boost mental function, and more!

 

 

 

 

What are the Best Natural Supplements for Dogs?

Several beneficial supplements can give your pet a health boost. However, we know that not everyone has the time to weigh the pros and cons of every dog supplement on the market. So, we've done the homework for you and chosen the best substances to support your pet's health. 

 

L-Theanine

L-theanine naturally occurs in green and black tea leaves and some varieties of mushrooms. Research has explored the substance's potential calming effects. Many dog owners are using l-theanine to settle their pet's nerves.

 

So, what is l-theanine exactly? Although it's classified as an amino acid, l-theanine doesn't build any proteins (the typical role of amino acids). L-theanine may increase GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms brain activity. 

 

If your dog suffers from phobias or nervousness caused by fireworks or car rides, l-theanine could help them chill out and enjoy the ride. The compound is well-tolerated by most dogs, and you can find it in HolistaPet's all-natural dog treats.

 

Chamomile 

Most people are probably familiar with chamomile tea. But did you know the herb is loaded with benefits for people and dogs alike? Chamomile plays an incredible supporting role when it comes to battling your dog's worries.

 

Chamomile flowers are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. The herb has a long medicinal history — ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek cultures used the herb to treat everything from ulcers to gout. Chamomile's potent soothing qualities made it an impressive treatment for many ailments over the years. Many still turn to chamomile for relief today.

 

So, what does it do for your dog? Like in people, chamomile may have a calming effect on your dog's nerves. Your dog's skittishness is no match for this herb's soothing properties! Since the plant also fights swelling, chamomile can help your dog's gastrointestinal issues as well. Stress often causes digestive trouble, so it's a blessing that this powerhouse plant may address both problems. 

 

Hemp Powder

Considering hemp powder's spectacular nutritional value, it's no surprise this ingredient made our list. Hemp powder is more than an ultra-nourishing additive — it provides profound relaxation benefits as well.    

 

Hemp powder is made by crushing pressed hemp seeds into fine dust. The powder retains all the nutritional value of the hemp seeds: rich amounts of omega fatty acids, fiber, and protein. The hemp seed is a complete protein that supplies all nine amino acids. It also has the perfect ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 acid fatty acids.

 

Hemp powder is like a natural multi-vitamin that boosts several aspects of your dog's wellbeing at once. Fatty acids help support your dog's skin/coat, promote joint mobility, and fight moodiness. Fiber aids digestion and protein supplies the energy your dog needs to keep playing all day long. 

 

Turmeric

Turmeric is another fantastic supplement that can give your dog's system some extra TLC. Renowned for its calming qualities, some pet owners use this natural ingredient to help their dog's joint discomfort. 

 

 People use turmeric all the time as a spice in Indian and Thai cuisines. The plant comes from the ginger family, and it imparts an earthy flavor into any food you mix it in. The real magic is the curcumin that turmeric contains. Curcumin is a compound with known calming qualities.

 

These soothing qualities spell relief for your dog. Turmeric's ability to quell swelling may help it soothe your dog's aching joints. The plant's antioxidant content may also boost your dog's immunity. 

 

 

 

 

Boswellia

Right up there with turmeric is Boswellia, another plant consumed for its soothing properties. If your dog struggles with soreness, Boswellia may provide some relief.  

 

Boswellia is an herbal extract from the Boswellia serrata tree, which is native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East. Also known as Indian Frankincense, the plant has a long history as a medicinal substance. According to Indian Aryuvedic texts, the resin from the tree bark was used to remedy a host of ailments. 

 

Fortunately, the same benefits people experienced from consuming Boswellia centuries ago extend to our canine friends today. A Swiss study examined its effects in dogs with stiff gaits. 

 

Flaxseed

Flaxseeds are one of the best supplements you can give to your dog. These nutritious little seeds contain so many beneficial acids it's almost unbelievable! The abundance of fatty acids in flaxseeds may support your dog's coat and immune system.

 

Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish your dog's skin and coat. Omega-3s also fight irritation and subsequently support your dog's mobility.

 

But that's not even the best part — flaxseeds contain lignans and alpha-linolenic acid. Both compounds improve immune functioning by counteracting inflammatory responses. A healthy immune system means fewer infections and more sunny days for your furry friend!

 

Related: Why Flaxseed is Extremely Important for Dogs [Detailed Nutrition Guide]

 

CBD

Time to introduce our favorite: cannabidiol (CBD). CBD for dogs has become increasingly popular for its calming and balancing properties. Although it's derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is a non-intoxicating compound that won't get your dog loopy or high. 

 

All mammals, including dogs, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body. The ECS influences several other systems, including the digestive and nervous systems, by helping cells communicate. CBD gives your ECS a boost and keeps it running up to speed!

 

Since CBD has such a holistic effect, it can provide several benefits for your dog. If you have a skittish dog that could use a chill pill, CBD helps with that. CBD can also help your dog get around by soothing their sore limbs. Dogs prone to spazzing out or losing control of their muscles may benefit from CBD. The compound is well-tolerated by most dogs, so it doesn't hurt to try it out and see how it can help your dog.

 

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a supplement that is nothing if not unique. This substance exists in your dog's synovial fluid and cartilage, which cushions the animal's joints. 

 

Although your dog produces glucosamine naturally, production decreases with age. Dogs with a short supply of this substance are more prone to joint and hip issues. 

 

Glucosamine supplements may help restore your dog's levels and keep their moving parts lubricated when their body won't do it. Commercial glucosamine is obtained from shellfish or plant sources. 

 

Probiotics

You may have heard of probiotics in yogurt. Probiotics are live bacteria that support your dog's digestive functions. A diverse ecosystem of bacteria lives in your dog's gut: some organisms assist the digestive system, and some don't. When there aren't enough beneficial bacteria in the gut, it throws the system out of balance and causes gas, diarrhea, and indigestion.

 

Stress, infection, diet, medication, parasites, and old age are all reasons your dog may develop a wacky ecosystem in its gut. Probiotics can restore balance and resolve your pet's tummy aches. A typical supplement may include bacteria strains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus casei, or Bifidobacterium breve.

 

Alaskan Salmon Oil

You can find Alaskan Salmon oil at many large pet stores. True to its name, the oil comes from salmon, which are naturally high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Pet owners use this oil to support their dog's skin/coat health and heart function.

 

 

 

 

How to Give Natural Supplements to Dogs

Giving supplements to your dog is a breeze — just follow the product's directions carefully. Some supplements may cause adverse reactions if combined with other medications or improperly dosed, so read the label closely! Remember, the vet is just one call away if you're ever unsure about administering a supplement.

 

You can try each supplement on this list by itself, or they can be included in a meal or treat. The good news is that HolistaPet's CBD dog treats contain ALL these potent ingredients so that you can get every benefit in one biscuit. All ingredients in our tasty treats are organic, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO — not a single artificial color or preservative to be found!

 

HolistaPet Heart & Immune Care

Holistapet CBD Dog Treats + Heart & Immune Care are nutritious and delicious! These treats were formulated with your dog's cardiovascular and immune systems in mind. Blueberries provide antioxidants and promote heart health, while flaxseed supports immunity and skin/coat. Plus, the treats include hemp seed powder for an extra omega-3 and protein boost. To top it all off, full-spectrum CBD soothes your pet's jitters.

 

HolistaPet Joint & Mobility Care

HolistaPet CBD Dog Treats + Joint & Mobility Care can help dogs with sore limbs get back on their paws. Two of the most potent calming ingredients — Boswellia and turmeric — are included in these dog biscuits to soothe swollen joints. The omega acids supplied by the hemp seed powder also support joint mobility, while CBD eases soreness. 

 

HolistaPet Stress & Anxiety Relief

HolistaPet CBD Dog Treats + Stress & Anxiety Relief are just the thing for squirrelly dogs. If you've got a dog with nervous tendencies, these treats can be an immense help. The formula includes l-theanine and chamomile to detangle your dog's nerves. CBD puts your pup at ease and helps them move to a more relaxed state. 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, raw food and special diets just don't cut it. If you want to give your pet something extra, these natural supplements for dogs can answer your call. No matter what your dog is going through, they can get some benefit from a supplement. At the very least, supplements provide extra nutrition. At best, they compensate for a lack of substance in the body and counter destructive processes.

 

In both scenarios, they improve the quality of life for your dog. They're safe to give to your pet, so why not try one and see how it can help? 

 

Read Next: Tryptophan for Dogs: Top 6 Benefits & More