Healthy nutrition is essential for a long and happy dog's life - but it's not just proteins and carbohydrates that are important, vitamins are too! They support the metabolism, strengthen the immune system and contribute to healthy skin and coat. But which vitamins are particularly important and how can you recognize a deficiency? In the following, we will tell you which vitamins dogs really need and how you can provide your pet with the best possible supply.
From: Alena Thielert
Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for numerous vital functions in the body. The fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and the water-soluble B vitamins are particularly important for dogs. Unlike humans, dogs can produce vitamin C themselves, which is why it is not an essential nutrient. However, all other vitamins must be obtained from food. Each vitamin fulfills a specific role and contributes in its own way to the health and well-being of your furry friend.
Vitamin A is essential for vision, fertility, skin and mucous membrane health and bone metabolism. Dogs can convert the precursor of vitamin A, known as beta-carotene, from plant sources into active vitamin A. Particularly rich in beta-carotene are carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach. A lack of vitamin A can lead to the following health problems in dogs:
However, an oversupply of vitamin A can also have side effects. Overdosing with synthetic vitamin supplements can lead to skeletal changes, stiffness and loss of appetite in dogs.
The B vitamins are particularly important for nerve regeneration as well as for the metabolism, mucous membranes and skin. The group of B vitamins comprises eight types, all of which fulfill different functions in the dog's body.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine): plays a central role in energy metabolism and ensures smooth communication between nerve cells, which is essential for a functioning nervous system.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): is involved in energy production and promotes skin health. It also supports the breakdown of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, which contributes to better utilization of nutrients.
Vitamin B3 (niacin): supports digestion and contributes to skin health. It is also important for cell metabolism and the function of the nervous system.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid): promotes the formation of fatty acids and neurotransmitters and is therefore important for energy production. It also contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): is necessary for the breakdown of amino acids and the formation of red blood cells. It also supports the immune system.
Vitamin B7 (biotin): promotes healthy skin, coat and claws and is also important for fat metabolism and energy production.
Vitamin B9 (folic acid): is essential for cell division and growth. It plays a crucial role during pregnancy.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): contributes to the formation of red blood cells and supports the function of the nervous system. It is also important for energy metabolism.
When it comes to B vitamins, it can be useful to give your dog a combination supplement, as the individual B vitamins work together like cogs and complement each other in their effect. However, before you rely on a vitamin B complex for dogs, you can also get the vitamins you need from natural sources. Potatoes, whole grains, legumes and nuts are rich in B vitamins and support a balanced diet.
A B vitamin deficiency can manifest itself in the following symptoms:
Vitamin D is crucial for bone formation, the immune system and the general well-being of your four-legged friend. Unlike humans, dogs cannot produce vitamin D3 themselves through sunlight and are therefore dependent on dietary intake. High-quality sources such as algae oil can help to cover the requirement. A lack of vitamin D can have serious consequences, including osteomalacia in adult dogs and rickets in puppies and young dogs.
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and protects your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also strengthens the immune system, supports muscle function and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Natural sources of vitamin E are vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. A deficiency rarely occurs.
Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting as well as bone and protein metabolism. An adequate supply is particularly important for pregnant and nursing bitches and puppies. The vitamin comes in two forms: Vitamin K1 is mainly found in broccoli, lentils and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, while vitamin K2 can be produced in the dog's intestines. A deficiency can cause a tendency to bleed and other health problems.
A high-quality complete food is usually designed to meet your dog's daily requirements and provide it with all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins. At
If you want to cook for your four-legged friend yourself, food supplements can be useful. We recommend our VISH OIL, which provides your furry friend with all the essential omega-3 fatty acids, and our ALL-IN VELUXE, which provides your dog with important minerals and vitamins.
An additional need for vitamins may exist in old, sick or particularly active dogs. Supplementation may also be necessary during recovery, during growth or in pregnant and lactating bitches. Please consult your vet in such cases.
Before you feed your dog vitamins, you should always consult your vet. They can also help you choose the right dosage and dosage form. There is a wide range of vitamin supplements for dogs. Vitamin pastes or liquid vitamins in drop form are easy to administer and can either be mixed into the food or administered directly. Vitamin tablets are also an option for your four-legged friend. They can be added to food or given as a treat. Powder, on the other hand, can be mixed very well into the food.
A vitamin deficiency can manifest itself through various symptoms, which can vary depending on the vitamin concerned. Common signs are:
Water-soluble vitamins are excreted in the urine, which is why a vitamin deficiency can occur more quickly. Fat-soluble vitamins, on the other hand, remain stored in the body for longer, which means a deficiency occurs less frequently - although there is a risk of overdose. If you suspect a vitamin deficiency, please have it checked by a vet - only your vet can make a diagnosis.
While a lack of vitamins can cause health problems, an oversupply is also not without its problems. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) in particular can lead to hypervitaminosis, as the body cannot simply excrete them via the urine. Excess amounts are deposited in fatty tissue or the liver and can cause long-term damage to health.
Vitamins are essential for your dog's health. A high-quality complete food usually provides most four-legged friends with all the important nutrients they need. However, sick and older dogs often have an increased need, so it can be useful to pay specific attention to their vitamin intake. If you are unsure whether your dog needs additional vitamins, ask your vet for advice.
Alena Thielert
