Nowadays pet owners are shifting towards homemade dog food. A balanced diet becomes a top priority. While fresh dog food offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to understand that some fresh dog meals might lack essential nutrients in commercial pet food. It's here that supplements come into play by covering nutritional shortfalls and guaranteeing maximum wellness to your dog.
Supplements supplement a balanced diet and offer specific benefits for dogs of any age and health status. Let's discuss the use of supplements in homemade dog food and how to use them in your pet's diet properly
Why are Supplements Necessary for Dogs?
Supplements are crucial for dogs as they help them focus on bridging nutritional gaps in their diet, enhancing general health, and fighting particular health issues. Puppies require something different from adult dogs because their bodies are developing, and older dogs tend to have medical issues that supplements can relieve. Generally, supplements assist in the prevention or reduction of certain diseases.
Key Benefits of Supplements in Dogs
Nutrient Gaps in Homemade Dog Food
Dogs prefer foods with higher protein as they serve as a primary building block for their muscles, skin, and other tissues, providing them with essential energy for daily activities, especially for active dogs, and also contributing to overall health and wellbeing. Some homemade dog food diets may not provide all essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin D. Supplements help to fill the nutrient gaps in homemade dog food.
Digestive Support
Dogs often experience digestive issues that affect their quality of life and keep them unhealthy. Every dog is unique, and their nutritional requirements vary based on age, breed, weight, activity level, and existing health conditions. Enhance the diet with pre-biotics which will help support your dog’s body and keep them healthy for years. Supplements help to fulfil the nutritional requirements.
Joint and Bone Health
Supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in your homemade dog food help reduce inflammation, support cartilage repair, and improve mobility in dogs, especially senior pets or those with arthritis.
Healthy Skin & Coat
Healthy Skin & Coat depends on the types of nutrients homemade dog food contains. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals help to care for your pet's skin and coat. Nutrients containing Protein, Linoleic acid, EPA and DHA, Zinc, Biotin and other B vitamins. Aside from ensuring your pet is getting these important nutrients in their diet, proper grooming can also help keep your pet's skin and coat in good shape.
Important Supplements for Homemade Dog Food
Calcium & Phosphorus
A proper ratio of calcium & phosphorus is very important for your pet’s bone health. While wet dog food and commercial kibble are often fortified with these minerals, homemade dog food may fall short, especially if bones are not included in the diet. You can get calcium from Crushed eggshells, Bone meal powder, Dairy products & more.
Omega-3 & Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Food such as Fish oil (salmon oil, krill oil), Flaxseed oil, and Chia seeds contain Omega-3 and Omega-6 which is very essential for your pet’s skin health, shiny coat, joint function, and cognitive health.
Probiotics & Digestive Enzymes
While switching from commercial dog food to homemade dog food one should ensure that your pet dog's stomach is healthy. Probiotics and digestive enzymes such as Probiotic supplements (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium strains) help support gut health
Vitamin D
Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus levels and promotes strong bones and a healthy immune system. Supplementation is very important while feeding homemade dog food as dogs cannot synthesize enough Vitamin D from sunlight.
Zinc & Iron
Fresh dog food such as red meat, shellfish, spinach and more helps to improve zinc & iron in your pet’s body. Zinc supports skin and coat health, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
Signs Your Dog May Need Supplements
If you notice any of these signs, supplementation may be necessary:
Dull coat and dry skin – This could mean a lack of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Excessive shedding – This may indicate a deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals.
Joint stiffness or difficulty moving – Glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health.
Low energy or weakness – A lack of iron, B12, or other nutrients could be the cause.
Digestive issues like diarrhoea or constipation – Probiotics and digestive enzymes can help.
Slow healing of wounds – This may suggest a zinc or Vitamin C deficiency.
Frequent infections or weak immunity – This could mean your dog needs immune-boosting supplements like antioxidants or probiotics.
If your dog shows any of these signs, consult your vet to determine the right supplements for their diet.
Providing your dog with homemade dog food has many benefits, including better ingredient control and improved digestion. However, ensuring a balanced diet is crucial to avoid nutritional gaps. Proper supplementation plays a key role in making sure your furry friend receives all the essential vitamins and minerals for long-term health and well-being.
By incorporating key supplements like Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and essential vitamins, pet owners can support their dog's immune system, skin, coat, and overall vitality. Always consult a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to determine the best supplements for your dog's specific needs.
At Skylish, we are committed to providing high-quality fresh homemade dog food packed with all the necessary nutrients. Choose Skylish for well-balanced, delicious, and nutritious meals that keep your pet happy and healthy. Order today!