What Are the Best Supplements for Senior Dogs?
Does seeing your furball with grey hairs, a fat belly and a lethargic face give you an overwhelming feeling and also make you scared thinking about the separation? From bringing a pup home to seeing them getting old in the blink of an eye is a feeling that cannot be described in words. We get it, and we know you hate to see your beloved companion growing up so fast and entering in their final years. Although you cannot stop the natural aging process, you can take steps to improve their quality of life by providing them with adequate nutrition and keeping them active even in their elderly years.
In this blog, we will learn about some of the best supplements that your dog needs to thrive in their advanced age. But before getting on to the supplements, let’s first have a look at when a dog is considered senior and what their nutritional requirements are during this time.
When is a dog considered senior?
The onset of seniority or old age begins from 8 years onwards; as in general, canines have a life expectancy of about 10-12 years. Seniority of a dog also depends on breed and size; for instance, smaller breeds such as Dachshund, Beagles, etc., have a longer lifespan compared to larger breeds like Saint Bernard, Great Danes, etc. However, veterinarians consider a dog senior when they have reached 75% of their expected life expectancy.
What are the best supplements for senior dogs?
As dogs age, their nutritional needs change and they require various modifications in their diet to stay active and healthy in their golden years. Senior dogs need a diet rich in protein and low in fat and calories to maintain lean body mass. Make sure you select the supplements that are old-age friendly and fulfill all nutritional requirements and keep your pooch in good trim. Take a look at some essential supplements that your dog needs as they age to stay healthy:
↪ Glucosamine & Chondroitin:
Joint problems are one of the primary concerns of aging dogs; hence, taking care of their joint health is the key to enhancing vitality and maintaining overall well-being. Glucosamine and chondroitin aid in supporting cartilage health, alleviating joint stiffness, easing movement and promoting healthy joints and bones.
↪ Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful supplements, extracted from fish oil that promote heart health, improve brain functionality, reduce joint pain and inflammation and lower blood pressure. Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids help support eye health and enhance skin & coat health.
↪ Pre & Probiotics:
Elderly dogs often suffer from digestive issues, affecting their overall health and vitality. Packed with beneficial bacteria, pre & probiotics are excellent supplements that support gut health, maintain healthy digestion, relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and promote a balanced intestinal flora.
↪ Antioxidants:
A healthyimmune system allows a dog to fight various illnesses, but as dogs enter their senior years; their immunity starts to dip, making them prone to diseases. Antioxidants, including Vitamin E, C and Selenium, play a major role in protecting the damage caused by free radicals and boosting immune health, promoting wellness and longevity in aging dogs.
↪ B Vitamins:
The B Vitamins, including B1, B6 & B12, promote a healthy nervous system, support energy production, enhance activity levels and maintain alertness. These vitamins are a game changer in your dog’s senior years as they keep them fit, happy, healthy and thriving.
Final Words
Taking care of your beloved companion in their golden years is a challenging yet beautiful journey that requires thoughtful care, a nutritious diet, additional supplementation and unconditional love. Giving your dog the above-mentioned supplements along with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise keeps them healthy and thriving in their final years. However, it is important to seek veterinary help as and when required to give your senior dog the best possible care and enhance their quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the common health issues in senior dogs?
Ans. The most common health issues that senior dogs experience in their elderly years are digestive problems, arthritis, cognitive dysfunction, heart and kidney disease, dental issues, etc.
Q2. What is the best senior dog supplement?
Ans. A senior dog needs various supplements as they age for joint support, healthy digestion, coat health, etc. Consult a veterinarian for tailored recommendations according to your canine’s requirements.
Q3. What is the best senior dog supplement for healthy joints?
Ans. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two essential supplements that help maintain healthy joints by repairing cartilage, reducing joint stiffness and inflammation and improving mobility.
Q4. Should I give my senior dog dietary supplements?
Ans. Yes, dietary supplements are essential for senior dogs as they help fulfill the nutritional requirements their diet falls short of. Therefore, you should give your senior dog dietary supplements under vet supervision.
Q5. Where can I buy senior dog supplements at affordable prices?
Ans. Senior dog supplements are available both online and offline. However, if you are looking for an affordable and quality-assured platform, visit BudgetVetCare. This virtual store is a one-stop-solution for your senior dog’s joint supplements and dietary supplements as they offer premium supplements at pocket-friendly prices.
