Supplements for Homemade Dog Food
Many people are curious about the supplements I give my dog, Rambo. In this blog post, I will share the supplements he currently takes.
My German Shepherd, Rambo, has been on a homemade raw diet since he was two years old. I always strive to prepare the best fresh homemade diet for Rambo, but I must also consider my budget. While the ideal scenario involves feeding our dogs high quality ingredients rich in pastured-raised, organic meats and vegetables, the constraints of budgets sometimes lead us to rely on commercial meats and vegetables. Even the fresh food I use in the homemade dog food recipes I follow is supposed to create a nutritionally complete balanced diet since the meats I feed Rambo are commercial meats that don't have the same nutrient-rich quality.
Why I Supplement for Homemade Dog Food
While organic meat provides dogs with an excellent source of nutrition, commercial meats can fall short in delivering all the necessary vitamins minerals that dogs require for good health. I incorporate different supplements to complement Rambo's homemade food to bridge these nutritional gaps and ensure Rambo thrives on his raw diet with all the essential nutrients. Supplements are essential for raw-fed dogs, especially when we can't feed them organic meats. Dogs who are on commercial raw, homemade cooked meals or any commercial pet food can benefit significantly from the right supplements.
The supplement I give Rambo consists of both supplements for humans and supplements specifically designed for dogs. Solgar, NOW FOODS and Nordic Naturals are the main human supplement brands I use for Rambo. Fera Pets Organics, Bark & Whiskers, and Four Leaf Rovers are some of my favorite brands for dog supplements.
It's important to note that Rambo doesn't take all these supplements daily. Every dog is different. What works for my dog may not work for yours. The appropriate dosage can vary based on a dog's specific needs and health condition; therefore, I'm not including the dosage of the human supplement in this post. Consider consulting with a veterinary nutritionist and naturopathic vet to determine the correct dosage (especially when you give the dog human supplements) and make sure they fit your dog's specific nutritional needs.
Supplements I Give My Dog
The followings are the human supplements I give Rambo:
Zinc is an essential mineral for dogs, contributing to skin health, coat condition, and overall immune function. Since commercial meats may not always provide adequate zinc, this supplement helps bridge any nutritional gaps to support general health and well-being.
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that safeguards against oxidative stress. It can aid in maintaining a healthy immune system and promote skin and coat health. This supplement is valuable for dogs on a commercial meat diet, where natural vitamin E might be limited.
Manganese plays a crucial role in maintaining joint health and bone development. This supplement is particularly beneficial for ensuring that Rambo's diet covers these essential needs, as commercial meats may need to offer more manganese.
Vitamin D3 is vital for calcium absorption and strong bones.
Slippery Elm is known for its soothing properties, especially for the digestive system. It can alleviate discomfort and help manage gastrointestinal issues, making it an essential addition for dogs on a raw diet. It’s an excellent home remedy for diarrhea in dogs.
Qunol Turmeric with 95% Curcuminoids
Turmeric is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, primarily attributed to curcuminoids. This supplement can support joint health, which is particularly valuable for maintaining Rambo's mobility.
Olive leaf extract boasts antimicrobial properties and supports immune function. It can benefit dogs with yeast infections due to its natural antifungal properties. The active compound in olive leaf, oleuropein, has been found to inhibit the growth of yeast and other fungi.
Natural Factors Bioactive Quercetin
Quercetin, a flavonoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, can help reduce allergies and contribute to cardiovascular health in dogs.
NOW FOODS Organic Kelp Pure Powder
Organic kelp is an excellent source of iodine, essential for thyroid function and maintaining healthy skin and coat. Since commercial meats may not provide sufficient iodine, this supplement becomes vital.
The following are supplements specially formulated for dogs:
Bark and Whiskers Adrenal Support
This dietary supplement is designed to support various aspects of a dog's hormonal health. It's especially beneficial to dogs who are spayed and neutered.
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement
This supplement is a must have item. Fish Oil Supplement offers several potential benefits for dogs due to its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, primarily EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These essential fatty acids promote various aspects of a dog's health, including joint health, skin and coat health, heart health, and brain and cognitive function.
Fera Pet Organics Probiotics + Prebiotics
Probiotics and prebiotics foster a balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion and overall well-being. This supplement ensures that Rambo's digestive system stays in optimal condition.
Super Snouts Joint Powder (100% Green Lipped Mussel Powder)
Green-lipped mussel is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility.
Four Leaf Rover Turkey Tail Mushroom
Turkey tail mushroom is a type of medicinal mushroom that is celebrated for its high beta-glucan content, which has immune-boosting properties.
This huamn grade product is 3rd party tested and proven to contain a minimum of 50% beta-glucan.
This human grade supplement is designed to promote and maintain healthy joints. It contains four ingredients: green-lipped mussel, eggshell membrane, organic poria coco mushroom extract and, curcumin.
Animal Essentials Milk Thistle
Milk thistle, scientifically known as Silybum marianum, is a flowering herb that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health issues, both in humans and dogs. Its primary active component, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that is known for its beneficial effects on the liver.
So, all of these supplements are what I use for my dog Rambo. Whether your dog is on a raw diet, homemade cooked meals, or commercial pet food, supplements can significantly enhance their health and nutritional well-being. As we tailor our diets to meet specific needs, it's essential to cater to our dog's dietary requirements. By selecting the right supplements, you can optimize your dog's health and vitality, regardless of the type of food you provide.
Again, what I shared here is my personal experience and knowledge. Please consider consulting with a veterinary nutritionist and naturopathic vet to determine the correct dosage (especially when you give the dog human supplements) and make sure they fit your dog's specific nutritional needs.
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Disclaimer:
Please remember that I'm not a medical professional. The insights shared in this blog post are based on my personal research and the experiences I've gained as a crazy dog mom who is obsessed with my dog's health. In cases where your dog has any medical issues or health concerns, it's vital to consult with a licensed veterinarian or a qualified animal healthcare provider. While I aim to provide informative content based on my personal experiences, it should never be considered a replacement for professional veterinary guidance.
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