Which Vitamins Should I Give My Dog?

The price of keeping a pet dog throughout it's life can often be staggering. A recent survey in the UK suggests that over the course of it's lifetime some breeds may cost an average over $90,000. Despite this expense many see their dogs as companions or even children more than pets. It is therefore understandable that owners want the very best of health for their animals to help ensure a long and fulfilling life. Vital to this need is undoubtedly which vitamins are most needed and in foods they can be found in a safe form for canines. Never give your dog multivitamins designed for humans that contain iron or zinc. These minerals/metals are required by canines. However, supplements designed for humans contain potentially lethal doses.

First up is perhaps the vitamin most regularly daily taken vitamin by humans: Vitamin C.

Vitamin C is vital for the growth and reproduction of cells and helps greatly in ensuring your dog has a long and healthy life and does not prematurely age.

Most widely taken by humans via citrus fruits a more suitable, palatable and efficient source for your dog is liver; especially beef and calf liver. Cooking any source of vitamin C denatures it ignificantly.Therefore, the most effective and efficient method is to serve these foodstuffs raw.

Next on the vital vitamin list is vitamin B. This vitamin is essential in controlling the condition of a dog's liver, coat, skin and eyes. Poor coat condition and skin conditions are often a result of a deficiency of this essential nutrient.

Added to this a dog's central nervous system is heavily dependant on vitamin B. Luckily meats such as turkey, liver and tuna are high in this vitamin. However, overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and the same problems associated with humans excessive strain on the heart, shortage of breath and premature death. Supplement designed specifically for dogs are available to counteract this risk.

Finally vitamin B2. This is vital to the immune system of any dog and can therefore help prevent and deal with disease that otherwise may end up costing a great deal in veterinary bills or in the worst case scenario death. As with vitamin B, B2 is found often in a dog's regular diet as well as grains and cereal found in dried dog food. Certain dog food producers often fortify their product with certain vitamins and minerals including others not listed here and give a recommended daily allowance RDA as a percentage on the packaging. Should you feel that your dog's diet could be improved by supplements it is advisable to compare the %RDA of the food to the supplement as with some vitamins overdosing on a regular basis can be harmful. Finally, remember: NO IRON or ZINC supplements.