How do I know if my dog needs supplements?

Watching your pup bound through the park or curl up for a nap, you probably don’t spend much time wondering about supplements. But as they age, or if their routine shifts, little changes might start to nudge that question into your head. It’s not about fixing something broken—more about noticing when their body might need a little extra support.​

Take their coat, for example. A shiny, thick coat is usually a sign they’re getting what they need from their food. But if you’ve started noticing dry, flaky skin or more shedding than usual, even with a consistent diet, it could be a hint. Maybe their food is missing a key nutrient, or their body isn’t absorbing something as well as it used to. That’s when supplements might come into play, but it’s rarely the first step—often, a chat with your vet about their diet is smarter.​

Joint stiffness is another clue, especially in older dogs. If your once-energetic pup now hesitates to jump on the couch or takes a little longer to stand up after a nap, it’s easy to think a glucosamine supplement could help. But those aches might also mean arthritis or another issue that needs proper diagnosis. Rushing to supplements without checking in with a professional might miss the real problem, and in some places, giving certain supplements without veterinary guidance isn’t just unwise—it could run against local regulations.​

Energy levels tell a story too. Dogs have off days, but if your dog seems persistently lethargic, even after adjusting their exercise, it’s worth paying attention. The same goes for appetite—picky eating might not just be stubbornness. A sudden disinterest in food could signal a nutrient gap, though it’s important to rule out other health issues first. Supplements aren’t a replacement for a balanced diet, but they can fill in gaps when life (or biology) makes that necessary.​

Special circumstances often call for extra care. Puppies growing like weeds, senior dogs with slowing metabolisms, or dogs on homemade diets might need targeted support. Even dogs recovering from illness or surgery can benefit, but only if a vet signs off. Every dog’s needs are different, and what works for one might upset another’s stomach or interact with medication. That’s why skirting professional advice isn’t just risky for their health—it might not align with local laws that prioritize animal welfare through regulated care.​

It’s tempting to grab a bottle off the shelf when you see a “for dogs” label, but not all supplements are created equal. Some might be unnecessary, others could be harmful in the wrong doses. Your vet knows your dog’s medical history, their diet, and any conditions they’re managing. They can point you toward products that meet safety standards and actually address your pup’s specific needs—no guesswork, no wasted money, and no risk of breaking rules that keep pets healthy.​

At the end of the day, you know your dog best. Those little changes in their behavior, their coat, their energy—they’re your first clue. But turning that clue into action means teaming up with a professional. Supplements can be a great tool, but only when they’re needed. And when they are, doing it right ensures your pup stays happy, healthy, and ready for all the adventures ahead.