Supplements for older dogs and senior pups

Updated 04/10/2024

Supplements have been around for us humans since the 1940s promoted to help with anti-aging as we travel through our adult years. But what about supplements for older dogs? Are they a thing? Should senior dog supplements be part of your doggo’s diet?

Today, we’ll look at maintaining a healthy diet and life for older doggos to understand how to help them through the aging process. So, what are the best supplements for older dogs, and are they necessary?

What are supplements for older dogs and why would you need them?

An important part of caring for older dogs (or any aging pet) is knowing how to adjust their diet as their bodies change over the years. Their nutritional requirements will change as joints begin to deteriorate, their immune systems become weaker, they are more susceptible to diseases like cancer, and their cognitive function and ability can also begin to decrease. 

To slow these inevitable processes down, supplements or additional vitamins for older dogs can give them an extra boost alongside their daily diet. This can come in the form of dried vitamin powders or crushable pills, oils, or foods rich in vitamins and minerals which can be occasionally given as a treat or snack.

Are there vet-recommended supplements for dogs?

Supplements do not undergo the same medical testing that prescribed drugs do. This means the exact effects, benefits, and side effects are not well known. Your vet may be able to recommend particular food brands or supplements for older dogs that are high in a certain vitamin which could help a geriatric dog. However, these products  can’t be considered a cure for any elderly ailment or aging aches. 

For a professional’s perspective on giving dogs supplements, we spoke to Dr Marc Abraham OBE - multi-award-winning veterinarian, author, broadcaster, and animal welfare campaigner. Here’s what he had to say, over on our community forum:

“There are so many different types of supplements on the market nowadays and for all types of conditions: from joints to skin, digestive to old age, and everything else in between! 

Firstly, I’d say some supplements can be very useful, safe for long term use, noticeably improving the animal’s quality of life, slowing the progression of arthritis, reducing joint pain, and often helpful in delaying the start of prescription medications. 

Secondly, supplements should always be complementary therapies, not alternative treatments”

The best supplements for senior dogs

Remember to always consult your vet first before adding anything new to your dog’s diet. Discuss what you would like to add and why, this can then be built out into a slow, long-term plan to include supplements in your pup’s routine. So, which supplements are considered the best for geriatric dogs?

Vitamin B

As pups age, they begin to slow down. But, some additional Vitamin B in their diets can help to support their overall health. With a low risk of toxicity, this means it’s safer to add to their food than other vitamins. Many dog-safe fruits and vegetables are rich in Vitamin B, so can be used as an occasional snack or treat a few times during the week.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a nutritional requirement for doggos, particularly as their bodies age. Found in many dog-favored fruits like blueberries and raspberries, it helps keep their immune systems strong.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Found in a variety of fish or as an oil form, Omega-3 fatty acids are a great way to keep your dog's fluff and skin healthy and happy. Fatty acids also act as an anti-inflammatory for the skin and joints. They’ve also been proven to aid with cognitive function and increase mental stimulation in older dogs.

Vitamin E (an antioxidant)

Like other vitamins for older dogs, Vitamin E is found in many dog-friendly fruits and veg which are great for side snacks. As an antioxidant, it may boost their blood flow helping them to heal faster, preventing the degeneration of joints, and helping to keep disease away. 

Medium chain triglyceride oils (MCT oils)

MCT oils may help with skin, coat, and brain health. Found as an oil or powder to be added to their food now and again, the American Kennel Club talk about how they can improve older dog’s cognitive health and a dog’s quality of life. 

Probiotics

Older pups can experience issues with digestion and their tummies as they age. However, adding probiotics to their food will not only help to keep things moving normally, but it’ll also allow their need for nutrients to be absorbed into the systems.

When you need to be away from home, a verified pet sitter can help make sure your senior sidekick gets the care and supplements they need. Click below to find out more about how that works.

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.

What about you? Do you know of any safe supplements for older dogs? Or, perhaps you’re a canine carer searching for some experienced wisdom? Head to our Community Forum to share the love and knowledge of dogs with other pet people. Otherwise, why not become part of our global pet-loving community? Check out our different membership plans and see which would suit your lifestyle best.