At Thrive Dog Kitchen, I’m noticing a growing trend: more dog parents are adding supplements to their dogs' diets simply because they've heard they're "good for health." With that comes confusion for the dog parents as to which supplements to buy, where to buy them, and much more. While I absolutely share your commitment to helping your dog live their best life, I need to have an honest conversation about supplements. Yes, I use them regularly with my dog, Jessie, but I believe in adding them for a specific purpose.
Start with the Foundations
Before we dive into specific supplements, let's be crystal clear: the foundation of your dog's health isn't found in a powder or pill – it's in their food bowl. As your fresh feeding partner, I always recommend starting with diet optimisation before considering any supplements.
The Supplement Trend Trap
Just because something is natural doesn't automatically mean it's beneficial. We're seeing pet parents adding:
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Multiple supplements "for general health"
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Probiotics without clear necessity
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Trending supplements based on influencer recommendations
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Powdered “superfood” products as a shortcut to whole food nutrition
While I absolutely understand the appeal of convenient solutions (it’s why I created our whole food blends!), and these additions might seem harmless, but unnecessary supplementation can:
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Miss out on the complex nutrients found in fresh, whole ingredients
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Waste your money on isolated nutrients when complete nutrition is more effective
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Potentially interfere with nutrient absorption
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Mask underlying issues that need addressing
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Create an unnecessary reliance on supplements
When Supplements Make Sense
During nutrition consultations I will recommend supplements only for specific purposes. I also guide my clients in how they can find nutrients their dog needs from whole foods. As an example, here are six supplements I regularly use with Jessie, and more importantly why.
Bone Broth: Real Food Support
This isn't a supplement in the traditional sense – it's actual food! Bone broth is a powerhouse of collagen, glucosamine, and minerals. I recommend it when:
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Supporting joint health through natural compounds
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Enhancing digestive health
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Providing easy-to-absorb nutrients during recovery post surgery or a bout of digestive upset
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Strengthening the immune system for year-round wellness
Pro tip: Keep some frozen in ice cube trays
Antinol Rapid: Targeted Joint Support
Looking after your dog’s joints is crucial throughout their life and especially during their retirement years. With so many joint supplements on the market I have found only one that has effectively worked for Jessie, Antinol Rapid. I specifically recommend this for:
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Active dogs with demonstrated joint stress
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Aging dogs needing mobility support
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Athletes requiring extra joint protection
Note: It can be used with puppies as a pro-active measure, though that comes at a financial expense.
Golden Paste (Turmeric): Natural Anti-inflammatory
Adding golden paste is beneficial for:
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Dogs with specific inflammatory conditions
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Active dogs needing recovery support
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Situations where natural anti-inflammatory support is indicated
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Boosting overall immune function
Slippery Elm: Digestive First Aid
For dogs transitioning between different diets or those with sensitive tummies, slippery elm gently protects their digestive system. I recommend this for:
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Specific digestive issues
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During food transitions
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Temporary gut support
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When stress might upset their stomachs (e.g. fireworks, new visitors or thunderstorms)
Psyllium Husk: Fiber Support
Just like humans need fibre, so do dogs. While the addition of fresh fruits and vegetables can meet their daily fibre requirements, there are times when fibre supplementation is required. I find it useful during:
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Supporting healthy digestion
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Maintaining regular bowel movements
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Adding bulk to fresh food diets.
Nux Vomica: Occasional Digestive Aid
This is a go-to homeopathic remedy for Jessie and myself. Reserved for:
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Specific digestive upsets, including nausea
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Temporary stomach issues
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Post-indiscretion support
Note: For all homeopathic supplements I recommend working with a qualified animal homeopath first.
Remember, while these supplements have benefitted Jessie over the years, every dog is unique and may require a different protocol of supplementation or none at all.
Our Ethical Approach to Supplements
At Thrive Dog Kitchen, I take an unusual stance for a business that sells whole food supplements: I'll actually talk you out of buying them if I don't think your dog needs them. Why? Because part of my mission is to optimise your dog's health through fresh, whole foods first. Supplements should be the supporting actors, not the stars of the show.
Before Adding Any Supplement, Ask:
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Have I optimised my dog's diet first?
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What specific issue am I trying to address?
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Is there a whole food alternative?
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Has this supplement been recommended by a professional who knows my dog's specific situation?
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Has this supplement been third-party tested?
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Am I adding this because of a trend, or because of a genuine need?
Making Informed Decisions
If you're unsure about whether your dog needs supplements, I’m here to help. My approach includes:
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Reviewing your dog's current diet
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Understanding their lifestyle and specific health needs
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Identifying any genuine gaps that might benefit from supplementation
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Recommending whole food solutions first
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Suggesting supplements only when truly beneficial
Your Next Steps
Rather than jumping on the supplement bandwagon, start with the basics:
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Before adding a supplement into your dog’s diet, ask yourself why
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Do your research to make the most informed decision
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Book a consultation to review your dog's current diet
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Learn about our fresh food blends that provide comprehensive nutrition
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Get personalised advice about whether supplements would benefit your specific dog
Remember: Just because a supplement is popular or "natural" doesn't mean it's necessary. Let's work together to make informed decisions about your dog's nutrition.
Want to learn more about whether your dog might benefit from supplements? I’m here to have an honest conversation about what's best for your furry family member – even if that means talking you out of a purchase!