What Do Pets Really Need?
As dog owners, we want to give our dogs the best—more play, more snuggles, and of course, better nutrition for our furry friend. That’s why many of us find ourselves wondering: “Should my dog be taking a multivitamin?”
You’ve likely seen shelves of pet supplements filled with colorful labels promising “complete wellness,” “immune boost,” or “essential nutrients.” But does your dog really need a multivitamin?
Let’s unpack the facts and help you make a decision that is not based on not marketing hype.
Why Do Humans Take Multivitamins?
Most human multivitamins are designed to help cover gaps in a suboptimal diet—think skipping vegetables, eating on the go, or relying heavily on processed foods.
These supplements usually contain a mix of:
- Essential vitamins and nutrients: Must be consumed through food or supplements.
- Non-essential nutrients: The body can produce these on its own when needed.
Since human diets are often lacking in essential nutrients, a multivitamin can serve as a backup plan.
But What About Dogs?
Here’s the key difference:
Most commercial pet foods are formulated to be “complete and balanced,” based on guidelines from AAFCO or NRC.
That means your dog’s basic nutritional needs are met through their regular meals—especially if you’re feeding a balanced diet.
So, is a multivitamin necessary? Let’s look closer.
The Problem with Pet Multivitamins
Pet multivitamins often contain “a little bit of everything” in one scoop or chew—a “kitchen sink” formula.
But here’s the issue:
- The doses are usually too low to make a real impact.
- They’re not tailored to your dog’s age, breed, or health status.
- Many contain fillers—non-nutritive ingredients that can irritate sensitive dogs.
What Are Fillers?
Fillers are added to bind, bulk, or flavor a supplement. Examples include:
- Maltodextrin
- Soy
- Cellulose
- Artificial preservatives or flavors
Some dogs are sensitive or allergic to these ingredients, which can lead to itching, digestive upset, or inflammation—the exact things you’re trying to prevent.
Can You Supplement Your Way Out of a Poor Diet?
Short answer: No.
Nutrition is the pillar of health.
Supplements support the foundation—but they can’t replace it.
A fresh, whole-food diet offers bioavailable nutrients—ones your dog’s body can absorb and use naturally. Ultra-processed kibble, on the other hand, often relies on synthetic replacements, which may be poorly absorbed or even cause digestive stress.
So What Do Dogs Really Need?
If your dog is eating a fresh, balanced, species-appropriate diet with the right balance of nutrients, they shouldn't need a multivitamin. But some targeted supplements may be beneficial depending on your dog’s age, lifestyle, or specific health concerns, especially in adult dogs.
Signs Your Dog May Benefit from Supplements
It is essential to consult a veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog's healthy skin and coat. Watching how your dog looks and acts is the first thing you can do. When your dog’s coat looks less shiny, their energy drops, or they have trouble moving, it may be connected to what they eat.
If you see new problems like a dull coat, flaky skin, or digestive system upset, it might mean your dog’s diet needs some support. These small changes matter, and you should discuss them with a veterinarian.
Consider these signs that might point to a need for supplements:
- Dry, flaky, or itchy skin and a less-than-shiny coat.
- Dog's joints issues, such as stiffness or difficulty getting up.
- Digestive system problems, such as bloating and occasional diarrhea.
- A weakened immune function response or frequent illness.
- Anxious behaviors or noticeable cognitive decline in senior dogs.
- Heart, kidney, or liver disease.
Life Stages and Situations That May Require Extra Nutritional Support
A dog's nutritional needs change as it gets older and experiences different life stages. At every life stage, these changes mean a dog will need different things from their food.
Puppies require DHA from fish or algae oil to support their brain and nervous system development. It has been shown that puppies that were supplemented with DHA learned better than those that were not supplemented.
Seniors can also benefit from increased doses of fish or algae oil, as higher doses are needed for the inflammation of arthritis. They may also need joint supplements. Seniors are less efficient at digestion and absorption of nutrients so additonal B vitamins and high quality protein are sometimes needed.
Situational Supplements: What Else Might Your Dog Need?
More is not always better, especially when it comes to dog supplements. If you give your dog vitamins on top of a nutritionally balanced diet, they do not need, balanced dog food can help prevent this, as it can lead to over-supplementation. That can be far more risky than a minor shortage in nutrients. The body needs the right balance. Messing with this balance can cause serious health conditions.
Some vitamins, like vitamin D, A, E, and K, are fat-soluble and stay in the body. They can build up over time and reach toxic levels. Dr. Melody R. Conklin from Zoetis Petcare says taking too many vitamins can bring "life-threatening toxic effects." Source: Zoetis Petcare For example, too much calcium or vitamin D might hurt your dog's kidneys or cause skeletal problems. This is a bigger risk for puppies as they grow.
The good news is you can keep your dog healthy and avoid these problems. Do not give dog supplements your pet does not need. Talk to your vet before you add anything to your dog's bowl. This helps support healthy life, avoid trouble, and make sure you are doing what is best for your dog.
Gut Health
Probiotics – balance gut bacteria and restore the population of good bacteria, support immunity, ease diarrhea
- Probiotics – balance gut bacteria, support immunity, ease diarrhea
- Prebiotics – feed beneficial microbes (e.g., chicory root, inulin)
- Slippery Elm or Marshmallow Root – soothe inflamed GI lining
Helpful for dogs with IBD, food sensitivities, or past antibiotic use.
Skin Allergies
Relieve itching, inflammation, and seasonal irritation.
- Fish Oil (EPA/DHA) – essential fatty acids reduce inflammation and enhance skin and coat health.They are also important in healthy immune system function.
- Quercetin – natural antihistamine and antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory diet
May require higher dosing during allergy seasons—ask your vet.
Cognitive Health (Senior dogs)
Support aging brains in their golden years and reduce symptoms of doggy dementia.
- Fish Oil (especially DHA) – promotes memory and cellular health
- Phosphatidylserine – supports cognitive function and focus
- SAMe – improves mood and brain performance
- B Vitamins – essential for neurological function
Best used preventatively starting in middle age.
Heart Health
- Especially helpful for breeds predisposed to cardiac conditions.
- Taurine + L-Carnitine – support heart muscle and function
- CoQ10 – boosts energy production in heart cells
- Hawthorn – herbal medicine for circulation and heart strength
Talk to your vet if your dog has a murmur or breed risk (e.g., Dobermans, Cavaliers).
Joint Health (Including Arthritis)
- Maintain mobility and manage arthritis pain naturally.
- Green-Lipped Mussel – packed with natural anti-inflammatories
- Turmeric (with black pepper) – potent anti-inflammatory
- Glucosamine + Chondroitin – support cartilage and lubrication
Green-lipped mussel is often better tolerated and more complete than glucosamine alone.
Seizure Support
Not a replacement for medication, but may reduce frequency.
- Fish Oil – shown to reduce seizure activity in some dogs
- MCT Oil – supports brain energy metabolism
- CBD (vet-approved) – emerging evidence for seizure control
Use under veterinary supervision—dosing and product quality matter.
Behavioral Health
Calm anxious dogs, reduce reactivity, and ease separation issues.
- L-Theanine – promotes relaxation without drowsiness
- CBD (broad-spectrum, pet-safe) – calms the nervous system
- Tryptophan or 5-HTP – supports serotonin and mood balance
- Ashwagandha – an adaptogen for chronic stress
- Chamomile or Passionflower – gentle herbal sedatives
Use for general anxiety or specific triggers like thunderstorms, vet visits, or travel.
What About Digestive Enzymes?
Unless your dog has a diagnosed pancreatic disorder (like EPI), supplemental enzymes are not necessary.
Why?
- Healthy dogs produce their own enzymes naturally.
- There's no solid evidence that they help unless a medical condition is present.
- Overuse might reduce the body’s natural production over time.
Stick to probiotics for general digestive support.
Bottom Line: Do Dogs Need Multivitamins?
In most cases: No.
Your dog’s best source of nutrition is real, fresh food that’s balanced and tailored to their needs.
Supplements should be targeted, purposeful, and used to support—not replace—great nutrition.
Here’s what your dog may actually benefit from:
✅ A fresh, nutrient-rich diet
✅ Omega-3s (from fish oil)
✅ Probiotics for gut health
✅ Targeted animal supplements based on age, breed, or pet's health conditions
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Risks of Over-Supplementation in Dogs
Consuming excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K) can be detrimental to your pet's health, as these vitamins are stored in the body and can lead to toxicity. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and Vitamin B, are easily eliminated.
Fillers, Additives, and Potential Allergens in Pet Supplements
When you pick a supplement, it's not only about the main ingredients. Many of these products contain fillers, ingredients added solely for taste, and substances that may cause allergies.
The best thing you can do is read over the whole ingredient list. Look out for:
- Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
- Possible allergy triggers such as wheat, corn, and soy.
- Human supplements can contain xylitol which is toxic to dogs.
- Fillers that are not necessary, such as cellulose or maltodextrin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can multivitamins be harmful if my dog doesn’t need then?
Yes, giving too many dog vitamin supplements, particularly fat-soluble vitamins, like A and D, can be problematic.
What should I do if I suspect my dog has a vitamin deficiency?
Your veterinarian can run diagnostic tests to determine if your pet is absorbing essential nutrients. The proper nutritional supplements can than be strategically added to your pet's regimen.
