We are big fans of supplements in this house. As much as we try, unfortunately, we humans can’t get all the vitamins and minerals we need from today’s food sources, and the same goes for our dogs. That’s why supplements are so important – they help fill in the gaps to make sure our pups are getting what they need.
There are many different types of dog supplements on the market, and it can be hard to know which ones are best for your pet. For this blog post we reached out to our Instagram buddy @normantheblue.
Norman is a blue Velcro Dane living in Ontario, Canada. We have been a follower of Norman for quite some time (and after you see his account, you will too!). Norman’s mom, Cassie, makes the most amazing and beautiful-looking supplement treats for Norman, so reaching out to her to share this with you guys was a no-brainer.
Now, let’s discuss seven different types of all-natural dog supplements that can help keep your pup healthy!
Note: Norman is fed a raw diet. His diet is balanced by his mom Cassie. If you feed a commercial dog food, it is likely to be already balanced. Because some nutrients cannot be overfed, please be mindful when adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.
The supplements ae mixed with either melted coconut oil or bone broth before being added to the mold.
Below are the natural dog supplements Cassie is feeding Norman, in her own words, including a list of benefits and what she feeds them for.
On a daily/weekly basis:
Green Lipped Mussels
Green Lipped Mussels: an all-natural joint support, vitamins & minerals, and omegas. We use this natural joint supplement as a preventative. GLM is a source of chondroitin sulfate, a naturally occurring component of connective tissue and joint structure in animals. They also boast anti-inflammatory properties which provide pain relief for dogs and cats suffering from elbow or hip dysplasia. They are recognized as a source of complex proteins, concentrated glycosaminoglycans, amino acids, omega 3 (ETA), omega 6, nucleic acids, selenium, and chelated minerals (zinc, copper and manganese).
Green-lipped mussels are native to New Zealand and get their name from the green edges on their shells. Chondroitin sulfate, a GAG found in green lipped mussels strengthens dog’s joint capsules allowing them to hold more water. ETA (eicosatetraenoic acid), a compound found only in green-lipped mussels, binds to an enzyme that causes inflammation!
Sea Kelp
Sea Kelp: his daily “vitamin”. The trace minerals in sea kelp are essential for proper immune and thyroid function. It is great for skin/coat health, clearer eyes, and immune response. It contains over 60 vital minerals, amino acids, and vitamins. It also helps in improving digestion, building and faster healing.
Sea Kelp also helps with itchy skin, to maintain glandular health, helps with digestion, and can help reduce tarter buildup! Please also note that kelp also has iodine. If you feed commercial dog food it is likely that iodine is factored in already. Over supplementing with iodine can lead to hypothyroidism.
Curcumin
Curcumin: as a superfood. It offers a wide-range of health benefits including: anti-inflammatory properties, improved digestion and it also supports a healthy immune system response. It is a natural detox, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, helps promote heart, liver and digestive health and is a natural pain relief (and so much more). We use this power house a few times a week.
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Earth MD Flea & Tick
Earth MD Flea & Tick prevention: this one I don’t mention too often [], but it’s super important to us. We prefer to take a natural approach in regards to everything with Norman, and this is no exception. It freezes great into molds and you feed it once per day for 7 days straight, every other month.
Earth MD is a supplement made from organic ingredients that helps detoxify the body and improve overall health. It can be beneficial for dogs with allergies or other sensitivities, as well as those who suffer from chronic health problems.
MSM, Glucosamine HCL, and Chondroitin Sulfate
Joint supplement: a unique blend of minerals to reduce inflammation & pain associated with joint disease including hip or elbow dysplasia and arthritis.
MSM is a natural sulfur compound that helps reduce pain and inflammation, making it a great choice for dogs with joint problems. Additionally, MSM promotes healing of skin, bones, muscles and connective tissue, making it a good choice for overall canine health.
If your pup is prone to joint pain, glucosamine HCL can be a vital building block for producing cartilage and keeping their joints healthy. Glucosamine can reduce joint swelling and inflammation and increase mobility, especially when combined with Chondroitin.
Chondroitin sulfate is a natural substance that acts like a sponge to draw water into the canine joint cartilage. Supplementing with chondroitin can help protect your pup’s joints from wear and tear.
Duck Eggs
Duck egg: although not a supplement, we like to feed these & quail eggs a few times a week. They are an excellent source of protein & calcium. We prefer to blend the duck eggs because Norman won’t eat the shell frozen and is quite messy (there are videos lol) & they look pretty!
Duck eggs are a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A and B12. They can be beneficial for dogs with skin allergies or problems, coat problems, or poor digestion.
Goat Milk
Goat milk: a source of probiotics, helps promote a healthy digestive system, and gut flora, strengthens the immune system & reduces allergies.
Goat milk is also high in calcium, protein, vitamin B6, and other nutrients that are beneficial for dogs.
How amazing is Norman’s mom?!! Dog moms like this fill my heart with joy.
Supplementing your dog’s diet with natural ingredients is a great way to improve their health and well-being. Have you tried any of these supplements for your dog? Send us a message and let us know!
