Dog Supplements I Use for Rambo: A Senior German Shepherd’s Health Journey
I always get a lot of questions and comments asking what dog supplements I give Rambo, my 9.5-year-old senior German Shepherd. So, I decided to write this blog post to share the products I use, and the reasons why I choose them.
Transparency First: No Sponsored Promotions
Let me start by saying that I’m not paid by any dog supplement companies to share or promote these supplements. I want to make that clear because I know people are becoming more cautious about recommendations from “influencers”—and rightfully so.
I don’t see myself as an “influencer”, I see myself as just another dog mom trying to navigate the pet supplement space to find products that is support my dog as he ages.
That said, sometimes brands do send me free PR as a token of appreciation because I organically share their products. Some of the links or discount codes I share in this post may also be affiliate links or discount code, meaning I earn a small commission on sales. I truly appreciate when you use my code or link because every little bit helps support my content creation—and hopefully, one day, I can be a full-time dog mom! But most importantly, I want you to know that I would never recommend a product I wouldn’t use for Rambo.
I also want to mention that we just got Rambo’s bloodwork results back yesterday (3/12/25), and everything looks great! 🥹 This is one of the reasons I held off on sharing my supplement list sooner—because I wanted to see if his bloodwork reflected any issues after taking these supplements for a while.
Now that I have confirmation that everything looks good, I feel comfortable sharing what’s been working for him.
💡 Keeping Track of Supplements
One thing that’s really helped me is having a simple tracker of Rambo’s supplements and wellness routine. If you’re like me and prefer to have everything in one place, I put together a Monthly Wellness Tracker to help stay organized.
👉 You can check it out here.
A Reminder Before We Dive Into the Supplement List
What I’m sharing here is not medical advice—I’m just a dog mom obsessed with my senior dog’s health, doing my best to treat him as naturally as possible.
This list is not vet-approved—it’s based on my own research and countless hours of conversations with other pet parents online. My own vet has only recommended fish oil and joint supplement but never mentioned a brand.
It’s also worth noting that Rambo’s current medical issues include:
KCS (dry eye) in his right eye
Hip dysplasia (only in his right hip)
Elbow dysplasia
Osteoarthritis
His only prescribed medication is Optimmune, an eye ointment for his KCS.
I encourage you to do your own research and consult your vet to determine if these supplements are right for your dog. If your dog has any underlying health conditions or is on prescribed medication, please use this as a reference only and speak with your vet or a holistic vet. What works for Rambo may not work for your dog.
💊 My Dog’s Daily Supplements
Now that we’ve got that disclaimer out of the way, here’s the list of supplements I use. I don’t necessarily give them all at the same time or every day (except for his daily essentials)—I supplement as needed.
Since he’s almost 10 years old, here’re the five supplements I give him every day to support his well-being:
1. Omega-3 Supplements
I primarily use Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement. Since Rambo is a large dog (he currently weighs 78 lbs), I always get the 16 fl oz bottle.
I love this fish oil because:
It’s made from wild-caught, small fish like anchovies and sardines.
It comes in a glass bottle—I don’t like buying fish oil in plastic bottle.
It’s third-party purity tested to ensure quality and safety.
I like to alternate with other omega oils for variety:
Native Pet Sockeye Salmon Oil – This fish oil is made from 100% wild-caught sockeye salmon. In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, it’s packed with astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant naturally found in salmon. (use code RAMBO to save)
Fera Pets Algae Oil – A plant-based, full-spectrum omega oil. I personally prefer fish-based sources, but if I have extra budget, I rotate this in for variety. (use code MEETTHECHOWS to save)
2. Anti-Inflammation Support
Rose-Hip Vital
(use code MEETTHECHOWS50 to save 50% + free shipping)
Rose-Hip Vital came highly recommended by a few dog parents in Australia, where it’s widely used for both humans and animals (dogs and horses). Given its natural, whole-food composition and the research-backed benefits of Galactolipids, I decided to try it for Rambo as part of anti-inflammation protocol for his joint care routine.
How Rose-Hip Vital Supports Joint Health
Rich in Galactolipids (GOPO®) – One of the key components in Rose-Hip Vital is GOPO® (galactolipid), a unique anti-inflammatory compound found in rosehips. Studies suggest that GOPO® helps reduce joint inflammation and cartilage breakdown, supporting long-term joint health and mobility.
Supports Collagen Production – Rose-Hip Vital is a natural source of Vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis. Collagen is essential for maintaining healthy cartilage, ligaments, and connective tissues, which are all critical for joint function.
Antioxidant Protection – In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, Rose-Hip Vital is packed with antioxidants that help protect joint cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to joint deterioration over time.
3. Collagen Support
Fera Pets Collagen Plus
(Use code MEETTHECHOWS to save 20%)
Collagen plays a huge role in maintaining joint, tendon, ligament, and connective tissue health, especially for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or mobility issues. After researching different options, I started using Fera Pets Collagen Plus for Rambo because it includes a variety of collagen sources, each offering unique benefits:
Upcycled bovine collagen
Wild-caught marine collagen
Eggshell membrane collagen
UC-II® undenatured chicken collagen
Why UC-II® (Undenatured Type II Collagen) Matters
The benefits of UC-II® for joint health in dogs are backed by scientific studies and clinical trials.
Study: Efficacy & Safety of UC-II® in Arthritic Dogs
This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of UC-II® in arthritic, obese large-breed dogs over a 90-day period.
Key Findings:
✔️ Reduced pain & lameness
Dogs that received 1 mg or 10 mg of UC-II® daily for 90 days showed:
Less overall pain
Less pain during limb manipulation
Less lameness after exercise
The 10 mg dose provided greater improvements than the 1 mg dose.
✔️ Increased activity levels
Dogs on UC-II® became more physically active compared to those that didn’t receive it.
✔️ No adverse effects
Blood tests showed no kidney or liver damage, meaning UC-II® was safe for long-term use.
✔️ Symptoms returned after stopping UC-II®
After 30 days without UC-II®, dogs relapsed, experiencing:
Increased pain
Exercise-associated lameness
Pain during limb manipulation
This suggests that continuous supplementation is needed to maintain benefits.
4. Joint Support
Wuffes Joint Chews
Wuffes Joint Chew is a pretty standard joint support formula containing glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin sulfate, green-lipped mussels, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, wild Alaskan salmon oil and yucca schidigera
I like it because it has high concentrations of active ingredients, so Rambo only needs one chew per day.
5. Longevity Support
ThorneVet Longevity Complex
This Longevity Complex was released last year, and while there are other longevity supplements on the market, I specifically chose this one over brands like Leap Years and Zesty Paws.
Last year, Leap Years actually reached out and offered free products for Rambo to try, but I declined because I wasn’t comfortable with their formulation transparency. There was a lot of conversation on NAD+ in the pet space and I was looking for a longevity supplement for Rambo. I actually contacted ThorneVet to understand how their product differs from Leap Years and Zesty Paw, here is what Dr. Keith Weingardt (a respected holistic vet and formulator for ThorneVet) shared,
“It is hard to compare ThorneVet Longevity Complex with the Leap Years product as they have ingredients listed under proprietary blend. So, we are not able to know which NAD+ precursor they are using in their formulation. At ThorneVet we have exclusive rights to use BioSynth's Nicotinamide Riboside Hydrogen Malate. This version of Vitamin B3 precursor was found to be the easiest and most efficient for the body to convert to NAD+. Zesty Paws uses Niagen which is a version of Nicotinamide Riboside but is not the same one we use at ThorneVet. Ours is a hydrogen malate derivative which further enhances energy production in the cell. The other important distinction between the Leap Years product, Zesty Paws and Longevity Complex from ThorneVet is that in addition to the NAD+ precursor, ThorneVet Longevity Complex includes several compounds which support the longevity pathways. We incorporate a synergistic blend of multiple senolytic/senomorphic ingredients which are potent polyphenol antioxidants acting to promote SIRT1 enzyme activity promoting longevity. The Zesty Paws product only has the NAD+ precursor without any additional support. The Leap Years product has one senolytic support (which they are not transparent about) in addition to the NAD+ precursor present. Our product is more comprehensive in its design with ingredients chosen for optimal bioavailability. We are also transparent about our ingredients and the dosage.”
In other words, to summarize Dr. Keith Weingardt’s message,
ThorneVet uses BioSynth's Nicotinamide Riboside Hydrogen Malate, which converts efficiently to NAD+, a coenzyme linked to longevity.
Zesty Paws uses a different version of Niagen, but without the additional supporting ingredients.
Leap Years has a proprietary blend, which means you don’t know exactly which ingredients are included.
Because of this, I decided to go with ThorneVet Longevity Complex, as it offers a more comprehensive and transparent approach to longevity support.
Additional Mobility and Anti-Inflammation Support
Rambo was diagnosed with hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis over 8 months ago, and started showing signs of limping. During his last visit for X-rays on his elbows, the vet (not our regular vet,) recommended Librela and also mentioned the possibility of surgery. However, after careful consideration, I decided not to use Librela. I’m just not comfortable with it yet, as this drug doesn’t come without its controversies.
I decided to take a more holistic approach with additional supplements to his routine, based on my own research and the experiences of other pet parents.
I’m incredibly grateful to say that, as of now, Rambo no longer shows any obvious signs of limping. If you follow us on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, you can see just how active, happy and goofy he is — without needing pain medication (yet). While I’m not opposed to medications, I’m mindful that long-term use of NSAIDs can be taxing on the liver, so I try to hold off on them for as long as possible. This approach is a personal preference, and it’s important to note that every dog is different. Please know that I would never let him suffer in pain.
ElleVet CBD
ElleVet Hemp Oil for Dogs is the first thing I’d recommend trying based on my personal experience. It is clinically tested and, to my knowledge, the only CBD in the pet space backed by clinical studies.
It may seem more expensive than other brands, but if you look at the actual amount of CBD per liter, it’s actually more cost-effective.
In the past month alone, at least five different pet CBD companies have reached out, offering free products for Rambo to try and paid collaborations. However, I declined because they lacked the same potency and testing as Ellevet.
Their customer support is phenomenal—if you get the oil, you can call them for dosage guidance tailored to your dog. They do provide a basic guideline with the product, but when Rambo had an arthritis flare-up, I called them, and they helped me determine the right dosage. The dosage can also be customized and used as a calming aid for stressful events such as vet visits or fireworks.
💡 Tip: If your dog is a picky eater, the ElleVet Hemp CBD + CBDA Soft Gels or ElleVet Hemp CBD + CBDA Soft Chews might be a better option since the oil has a strong smell. You can also put the oil in an empty gelatin capsule (included with your order) and wrap it in food. For me, sometimes I use the capsule, and other times I just drizzle it on top of the food. To be honest, Rambo doesn’t mind the taste—I just feel bad that his whole bowl of food smells like CBD oil.
Antinol
Antinol is a joint and anti-inflammatory supplement that combines green-lipped mussel extract and krill oil, both of which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, DHA, and ETA, a unique compound found in green-lipped mussels. These ingredients work together to support joint health, mobility, and overall inflammation reduction.
Why I Like Antinol
Clinically Researched – Antinol has been studied for its benefits in reducing inflammation and supporting joint function in dogs.
Natural Alternative to NSAIDs – Unlike prescription NSAIDs, Antinol is a natural supplement that helps manage inflammation without the same risk of long-term liver or kidney stress.
High Potency – The green-lipped mussel extract used in Antinol is lipid-stabilized, meaning it retains its full potency and effectiveness compared to lower-quality mussel powders.
Safe for Long-Term Use – Since it’s a natural supplement, it can be used long-term without the same concerns as NSAIDs.
💡 I even made a YouTube video comparing Antinol to Meloxicam (a prescription NSAID for pain relief). In this video, I dive into a recent study comparing two joint supplements- Antinol and 4CYTE -to the common pain medication meloxicam for dogs with osteoarthritis. discussing how it fits into my approach for managing Rambo’s joint health. If you're looking for a natural anti-inflammatory option, this might be something to consider.
Boswellia
Boswellia serrata is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory herb known for its ability to support joint comfort and reduce pain. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to help with inflammation-related conditions, particularly in the joints.
The one is use is NaturVet S.O.D. & Boswellia Extra Joint Support Dog Supplement. This formula also contains Superoxide Dismutase (S.O.D.), a potent antioxidant enzyme that helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which are key contributors to joint degeneration and inflammation.
Final Thoughts
I wrote this blog post in March 2025, and as with everything in my dog care journey, things may change. My supplement choices and recommendations are based on what I know today, but I’m always learning, researching, and adjusting to what’s best for Rambo. If I find something better down the road, I won’t hesitate to switch things up.
Please note that this supplement routine is not vet-approved—it’s based on my personal research, experiences, and the advice shared by other pet parents. Every dog is different, so it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet before adding any new supplements to your dog’s routine, especially if they have existing health issues or are on medication.
I’m committed to continuously learning about new products and approaches to support Rambo’s health. As his needs evolve, so will his supplement regimen. My ultimate goal is to keep him feeling his best for as long as possible—and to share the journey with all of you.
I hope this post provides some helpful insight into what I’m using for Rambo and why. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, feel free to reach out! I’d love to hear from you. 😊
