Senior Dog Supplements: A Veterinarian’s Guide

If you’re a longtime dog owner, you may have found yourself asking, “How can I improve my the quality of life of my senior dog?” This is a common question and one we’re passionate about answering. Below is a guide of the top products many vets recommend for older dogs.

First things first…

What Age Does a Dog Become “Senior”?

According to Discover Magazine, dogs become senior at about 7 years of age. However, this timing can vary depending on breed as smaller dog breeds often have longer lifespans than larger dog breeds. Great Danes, for instance, don’t live nearly as long as Chihuahuas (on average). It is also important to keep your dog’s lifestyle in mind. A sedentary, unactive lifestyle may result in your dog showing signs of aging earlier than expected.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Dogs

According to Dr. Julie Buzby, DVM, a practicing integrative veterinarian, “omega-3 supplements can positively impact every cell in your dog’s body. Like humans, dogs cannot produce these fatty acids on their own, and must get them through diet.”

Omega-3s are good for the body because they can help reduce swelling and inflammation. This has a positive effect  on skin, eye, heart, bladder, brain and joint health. If your dog suffers from arthritis or problems with vision or skin, taking omega-3s can be helpful.

It’s important to choose a reputable brand of omega-3 supplements for your dog. Look for one that has good ingredients and is made well. If you choose a liquid form, be sure to keep the bottle refrigerated so that it does not spoil. Spoiled fish oil supplements smell rancid and can even be harmful.

Dr. Buzby also recommends that if your pet is going to have surgery, to stop taking omega-3s a few weeks beforehand as it can cause additional bleeding.

Joint Supplements for Senior Dogs

Many dogs suffer from joint pain or arthritis as they get older, making joint supplements a must-have for senior canines. The two most common and powerful ingredients in joint supplements are glucosamine and chondroitin. Both ingredients promote the production of joint fluid and overall cartilage health. Cartilage is the tissue that lines the joint surfaces and can degrade over time due to normal wear and tear. Some veterinarians recommend starting your dogs on these supplements at a young age to protect their joints early on.

Another common but powerful ingredient is methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM for short. It is a natural compound found in plants and animals. MSM works to improve joint health in several ways. It can reduce inflammation as well as oxidative stress, and promote the production of collage and other connective tissues. Collagen is protein that makes up the structures of joints, and like cartilage, can wear down over time.

Similar to any supplement product for your dog, quality is the name of the game. Its also important to consult your vet before starting your pet on a new supplement regiment. Many pet owners prefer to buy pet-specific supplements rather than human ones to ensure proper dosages.

Pre and Probiotics for Senior Dogs

As a pet owner, it can be heartbreaking to see your furry friend suffer as they age. As dogs get older, their microbiome can become unbalanced, which can lead to inflammation, leaky gut, and chronic disease. But there's hope! Probiotics and prebiotics can help support your senior dog's health and wellbeing.

Your dog's microbiome is made up of bacteria and other microorganisms that live all over their body. The more diverse and healthy their microbiome is, the better off they'll be. But as dogs age, the diversity and number of bacteria and microorganisms change. Harmful bacteria can begin to crowd out the good ones, leading to health issues that can be difficult to manage.

Fortunately, probiotics and prebiotics can make a significant difference in your dog's life. Soil-based probiotics are especially helpful for dogs because they have a protective coating that helps them survive the digestive process. This allows them to get to the colon, where they can work their magic and support your dog's health.

Prebiotics are another important part of your senior dog's diet. They are soluble, indigestible fibers that can reduce inflammation, support gut health, and reduce the risk of disease. Prebiotics feed the beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut, which can help increase the population of these helpful organisms and improve their overall health.

When it comes to choosing the right probiotic and prebiotic supplements for your senior dog, quality matters. Look for products with high concentrations of beneficial bacteria and minimal additives or preservatives.

Antioxidants for Senior Dogs

As our dogs age, their bodies go through changes that can make them more susceptible to diseases and health problems. One of the ways to support your senior dog's health is by ensuring they receive adequate amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds found in many foods that protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.

As dogs age, their bodies produce more free radicals, and without enough antioxidants to neutralize them, these molecules can cause damage to cells and lead to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to various health problems. Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and improve overall health.

The best way to ensure your senior dog gets enough antioxidants is through their diet. Feeding them a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and carrots, can provide an abundance of antioxidants. You can also consider supplementing their diet with antioxidant-rich supplements like vitamins A, C, and E.

It's important to note that not all antioxidants are created equal, and it's essential to choose high-quality supplements that are safe for dogs. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any new supplements to your senior dog's diet to ensure that they are appropriate for their specific needs.

By incorporating antioxidants into your senior dog's diet, you can help support their overall health and potentially reduce the risk of age-related health problems. Seeing your dog suffer from health problems can be heartbreaking, but by taking proactive steps to support their health, you can help ensure they live a happy and healthy life as they age.