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Some call a dog man’s best friend, but if you’re an actual pet parent, you know they’re bona fide family members. 

Besides being a much cuter alternative to a fancy alarm system, they provide companionship and the type of love some of us don’t even experience with other humans.

Having a dog has been scientifically shown to reduce stress and slow cognitive decline, giving owners all the more reason to provide their four-legged pals with the best care. While that can come in the way of the top food and treats, the best dog supplements offer another way to support their well-being.

Like supplements for humans, supplements for dogs can fill nutritional gaps, improve digestion, joint health and mobility — all the things that lead to a happier pet.

Not all supplements are created equal, so this isn’t the type of product to practice your blind buying skills on.

For tips on what to look for and avoid, jump to our FAQ below, or keep scrolling to see our tight roundup of the top supplements for your furry friend. Note: It’s important to speak with your veterinarian before adding anything new to your dog’s routine.

Changes in lifestyle, medication, or stress levels can negatively impact a dog’s stool quality. To keep things moving in the right direction, many vets recommend Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora, which supports intestinal balance with a single-strain probiotic.

Its powder form is easy to administer, dissolving into wet food without a trace. Most pet owners report that animals enjoy the liver flavor, though some say the serving size may be too much for smaller dogs, even if spread over two feedings. While it may not be a solution for pets with serious digestive issues (see your vet to rule out worms and other potential causes), many dogs experience relief and healthier bowel movements with this added to their routine.

Made from Kentucky-grown organic hemp, this full-spectrum CBD offers natural stress relief for dogs, as well as cats. Containing 33 milligrams of hemp flower, dogs literally lap up this liquid formulated in a delicious vegan corndog flavor. While it’s also a great option for dogs with mobility issues, many pet owners like to give it to their fur babies before fireworks or travel. “We use this during the summer months,” one pet owner wrote in their review. “A lot of fireworks, even on July 5th, have my German shepherds jumping and hearts pounding through their chests. [This] keeps them calm enough but not knocked out.”

Pet experts often recommend Omega-3s for dogs with itchy and inflamed skin. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 is high quality, rich in EPA and DHA, and promotes a healthier inflammatory response. It’s simple, effective and can even help improve the look of your pet’s coat. Highly rated by pet owners who purchased the supplement through Amazon, this fish oil supplement for dogs has been called everything from “magic in a bottle” to simply “magic” for easing allergy symptoms.

If you’re looking for a simple supplement to support nutritional gaps and overall health, this multi-vitamin supplement from Greenies is a great option. It has a variety of actives, including glucosamine for joint health, omega-3 fatty acids and L-carnitine, all of which work together to help your dog feel its best. The chewy texture and chicken flavor make them think they’re enjoying a treat, plus the formula has a yeast culture to promote better digestive health. Highly rated by customers on Chewy, it earns high marks for effectiveness, long-term benefits and ease of use.

While a whole diet should provide adequate nutrients for your pet, that doesn’t always happen. Vet recommendations will vary depending on your dog’s unique needs, but the supplements most commonly recommended are as follows:

When selecting a dog supplement, avoid known toxins and unnecessary preservatives. Things to watch for include:

Vets don’t typically recommend supplements if your dog is eating a whole and balanced diet. However, if it’s experiencing certain health conditions, such as dry skin or arthritis, a supplement may be recommended. If you’re concerned about the health of your pet, it’s important to take them to a medical professional instead of trying to treat the problem yourself. While it may seem cost-effective in the short term, there could be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

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