Golden retriever sitting beside a white supplement bottle.

12 Best Supplements for Senior Dogs: Vet-Approved & Science-Backed Formulas

12 Best Supplements for Senior Dogs: Vet-Approved & Science-Backed Formulas

As dogs get older, their health needs change. What sufficed for a young, spry pup may no longer apply to an older dog with joint discomfort, digestive issues, or slow metabolism.

However, this is not something to lose sleep over. There are supplements that can make a world of difference in the quality of your senior dog's life.

At Pup Labs, we create supplements that give your dog the happy life they deserve. Our vet-approved, science-backed formulas target vital aspects of your dog's wellbeing, including joint mobility, gut function, dental care, stress relief, immune system, and skin and coat health.

Here are 12 of the best supplements for senior dogs.

1. The Best Glucosamine Joint Supplements for Senior Dogs

Hip and joint health is a top priority for senior dogs, especially those that have already developed symptoms of arthritis or hip dysplasia. Veterinarians widely recommend glucosamine supplements due to their efficacy in supporting joint flexibility, reducing pain, and improving mobility. These are the best joint supplements for your senior dog:

Pup Labs supplement highlighting natural, human-grade ingredients for dogs.

Freedom Joint Drops

Freedom Joint Drops are a perfect option when it comes to advanced joint support for your senior dog. These glucosamine drops contain clinically proven ingredients that work fast, easing pain and restoring movement.

Key Ingredients:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: This is a naturally occurring compound found in synovial fluid within the joints. It lubricates your senior dog's joints, thus reducing pain and stiffness. A 2021 study in the journal Animals found that oral administration of hyaluronic acid improves joint biomarkers and helps in managing osteoarthritis symptoms in dogs. This implies that oral supplementation of hyaluronic acid can improve joint health in senior dogs.
  • Flavonoid Superfoods: We source our flavonoids from a 2,000-year-old plant from the Mediterranean coast. These antioxidants protect your dog's joints against oxidative stress. Another 2024 study by Moritz et al. in Frontiers in Veterinary Science explains that flavonoids have strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. As such, they help in the mitigation of chronic inflammatory processes.
  • MSM: According to Rania Gollakner, BS, DVM, MPH, a veterinarian at VCA Animal Hospitals, MSM is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that reduces discomfort and pain in dog joints. Vets prescribe this dietary supplement ingredient for conditions such as arthritis.
  • Vitamin B12 (MethylCobalamin): We use methylcobalamin because it's the most active coenzyme form of B12. Besides burning fat and improving immunity, B12 also helps boost your dog's energy levels. Veterinarians Sarah M. Schmid, DVM, DACVIM, and M. Katherine Tolbert, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, in the article "Essential to Every Cell: Cobalamin in Health and Disease" explain that B12 is used by every cell in the body, and deficiency in dogs can lead to failure to thrive, weight loss, immunodefiency, and even neurologic manifestations such as seizures. Thus, senior dog joint supplements that contain methylcobalamin are an absolute necessity for overall well-being.
  • Magnesium: According to veterinarian Allison J. Stewart, BVSc (Hons), PhD, DACVIM-LAIM, DACVECC, magnesium is a vital macromineral required for numerous biochemical reactions in a dog's body. Its need becomes more critical as dogs age because of the risk of deficiency associated with poor absorption. Therefore, joint supplements for senior dogs should include magnesium. This is because hypomagnesemia can worsen other conditions in the body.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love Freedom Joint Drops:

  • Eases joint pain and stiffness
  • Supports hip and joint health
  • Aids joint flexibility and strength
  • Stimulates cartilage growth
  • Reduces inflammation for a more active lifestyle

Feeding Guide:

  • For dogs weighing 2–25 lbs: 1/2 dropper daily
  • For dogs weighing 25–50 lbs: 1 dropper daily
  • For dogs over 50 lbs: 2 full droppers daily

Shop our Freedom Joint Drops today.

Pup Labs Freedom Joint Chews promoting healthy hips and joints for dogs.

Freedom Joint Chews

If your dog prefers a chewable format, Freedom Joint Chews are an excellent option. We formulate these delicious chews with a variety of ingredients that support joint health. Also, you can easily add these soft chews to your dog's daily routine.

Key Ingredients:

  • Turmeric: Curcumin, turmeric's active compound, is a widely recognized potent anti-inflammatory known to improve joint health, digestion, and even reduce arthritis pain. A 2023 study by Kępińska-Pacelik & Biel found that curcumin's most important health benefits are its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant effects.
  • Glucosamine HCL: This is a compound that assists in the healing of bruised cartilage and ensures toxins are not generated within the joint. Glucosamine HCL is the most bioavailable form of this compound. A study in the journal Clinical Interventions in Aging confirms that glucosamine is a building block for cartilage, and it supports repair and lubrication.
  • Rose Hip: Traditionally recognized for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, rose hip has been used to improve mobility in arthritic dogs. Research from Woonona Pet Food and Produce confirms that rose hip can help with stiffness and mobility issues.
  • MSM: We include MSM to provide immediate relief by blocking pain signals to the brain.
  • Vitamin C: The importance of vitamin C for older dogs goes without saying. It assists in fighting free radicals and minimizing joint deterioration.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love Freedom Joint Chews:

  • Relieves joint pain and stiffness
  • Supports hip, joint, and healthy bones
  • Aids flexibility and strength
  • Promotes cartilage development
  • Decreases swelling for an active lifestyle

Feeding Guide:

  • Up to 15 lbs: 1 chew daily
  • 15–45 lbs: 2 chews daily
  • 45–75 lbs: 3 chews daily
  • Over 75 lbs: 4 chews daily

Shop our Freedom Joint Chews today.

2. Probiotics for Dogs & Dog Digestive Supplements

As dogs get older, their digestive health becomes even more important, especially when they begin to experience bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Dog probiotics and digestive supplements support a healthy gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and alleviate digestive discomfort. Here are two top choices for gut health support for your dog.

K9 Belly Bliss from Pup Labs
GUT HEALING MAGIC

K9 Belly Bliss

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K9 Belly Bliss

K9 Belly Bliss is a powerful digestive supplement that supports gut health, reduces inflammation, and helps the body absorb nutrients. It's ideal for senior champs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

Key Ingredients:

  • L-Glutamine: According to Biotics Research, L-glutamine is vital for digestive health as it aids in the regeneration and renewal of cells in the gut. This heals leaky gut syndrome and prevents the entrance of toxins into the bloodstream.
  • N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine (NAG): As noted above, glucosamine ensures toxins are not generated in the body. This N-Acetyl form (NAG) acts like a sponge, sopping up harmful toxins that would otherwise cause damage to the lining of the gut.
  • Reishi Mushroom: Apart from being an immune booster, this type of mushroom helps in balancing the gut bacteria. Its role as a prebiotic is supported by studies in the Journal of Animal Science, noting that it feeds the "good" bacteria in the gut, thus improving the overall microbiome balance.
  • Lion's Mane Mushroom: According to Cho et al. (2022) in the Journal of Animal Science and Technology, Lion's Mane mushroom is a prebiotic that feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut, supporting long-term digestive health and the nervous system.
  • Turkey Tail & Cordyceps: Veterinarian Rania Gollakner from the VCA Animal Hospitals notes that there's anecdotal evidence supporting the efficacy of medicinal mushrooms in dog health. Turkey tail and cordyceps, in particular, are prebiotics that nourish good gut bacteria, further supporting digestion and immunity.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love K9 Belly Bliss:

  • Improves gut health
  • Supports immune function
  • Reduces chronic itching
  • Relieves stubborn allergies

Feeding Guide:

  • <25 lbs: 1/2 scoop daily
  • 25-75 lbs: 1 scoop daily
  • 75 lbs: 2 scoops daily

Shop our K9 Belly Bliss today.

Pup Labs Freedom Joint Chews promoting healthy hips and joints for dogs.

Tummy Essentials Digestive Chews

These tasty, soft chews are packed with ingredients designed to soothe your dog's digestive system and support overall gut health. They're perfect for dogs who need just a little extra help with digestion, especially in their senior years.

Key Ingredients:

  • Bacillus Coagulans: According to Liu et al. (2024) in Frontiers in Microbiology, this is a powerful probiotic that supports gut microbiome and digestive health. It increases the production of bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
  • Pumpkin: Traditionally and today, people have been using pumpkins to soothe digestive discomfort and ease constipation. Rich in fiber and nutrients, it supports digestive function and can help with mild constipation or diarrhea.
  • Fructooligosaccharides: According to studies in Frontiers in Nutrition, fructooligosaccharides help nourish the good bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting a healthy balance of microbiota.
  • Oats: These carbs are perfect for both humans and older dogs. They're very rich in soluble fiber that helps in controlling the level of blood glucose by contributing positively to the digestion process.
  • Peanut Butter: This is a delicious addition to make the chews more appealing to picky eaters.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love Tummy Essentials Digestive Chews:

  • Provides digestive support
  • Supports the immune system
  • Promotes solid stool and better digestion
  • Reduces bad breath
  • All-natural ingredients without fillers or additives

Feeding Guide:

  • Up to 50 lbs: 1 chew daily
  • 50–100 lbs: 2 chews daily
  • 100–150 lbs: 4 chews daily

Shop our Tummy Essentials Digestive Chews today.

3. Dental Chews & Bad Breath Remedies for Senior Dogs

Dental health is often the last thought on your mind when it comes to seniors, but it's actually an important part of their overall health. Common complaints with older dogs include bad breath, plaque buildup, and gum disease. Our dental chews and supplements are perfect for keeping your dog's mouth fresh and their teeth strong.

Pup Labs natural dog dental powder ingredients.

ProDenta

ProDenta for dogs targets bad breath, plaque, and tartar buildup for optimal dental health. Packed full of natural ingredients, this supplement will maintain healthy teeth and gums and also freshen up your dog's breath.

Key Ingredients:

  • Spirulina: This is a blue-green alga filled with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Satyaraj et al. (2021) in Frontiers in Nutrition note that spirulina supports dog immunity and reduces inflammation.
  • Pumpkin: Fiber-filled and good for digestion, pumpkin also supports oral health by addressing the gut issues that result in bad breath.
  • Flavonoid Superfoods: As noted by Moritz et al. (2024), flavonoids are powerful antioxidant-rich foods that protect your dog's oral health.
    Peppermint: The strong menthol scent and taste of peppermint freshen breath and reduce tartar buildup.
  • Oregano: This herb contains antibacterial properties that protect your dog's mouth against harmful oral bacteria. According to Tao et al. (2025) in Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers have found that oregano essential oils are potent against a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Why Senior Pet Parents Love ProDenta:

  • Eliminates bad doggy breath
  • Reduces plaque and tartar
  • Supports healthy gums and teeth
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Promotes white teeth and fresh breath

Feeding Guide:

  • Over 50 lbs: 1/2 scoop daily
  • 26–50 lbs: 1 scoop daily
  • Over 50 lbs: 2 scoops daily

Shop our ProDenta today.

Pup Labs Fresh Breath dental chews, fresher breath for dogs.

Fresh Breathies Dental Health Chews

These soft chews are a natural solution to your dog's dental problems, as they freshen breath and support gums while reducing inflammation in the mouth. They also help your dog's teeth remain healthy and strong.

Key Ingredients:

  • Premium Grade Champignon Mushroom Extract: According to Dr. Raikner of VCA Animal Hospitals, medicinal mushrooms contain key nutrients that are beneficial for your dog's gut health. Note that an unhealthy gut is one of the causes of bad breath in older dogs. As such, healing it supports a healthy microbiome and helps with bad breath.
  • Yucca: This is a plant that reduces mouth odors and promotes better digestion. Dickson (2021) explains that it contains saponins that aid in the assimilation and absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract.
  • Spirulina: As noted above, spirulina contains key amino acids and anti-inflammatory properties that promote good digestive and dental health.
  • Parsley & Mint Leaf: These leaves contain chlorophyll (in parsley) and aromatic essential oils (menthol in mint), which act as natural internal deodorizers that help freshen breath.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love Fresh Breathies Dental Health Chews:

  • Eliminates bad breath
  • Good for healthy gums and teeth
  • Promotes overall health and immune function
  • Reduces inflammation in the mouth and dog's body

Feeding Guide:

  • Up to 50 lbs: 1 chew daily
  • 50–100 lbs: 2 chews daily
  • 100–150 lbs: 4 chews daily

Shop our Fresh Breathies Dental Health Chews today.

4. Specialized Formulas: Weight Loss, Skin, Coat, & Ear Supplements

As your dog ages, they may struggle with weight gain, skin problems, or ear infections. The right supplements will provide support for weight management (especially if they're large breed dogs), skin health, and common ear conditions. Here's a look at the best formulas for these needs.

K9 Slim Weight Management for Dogs pouch with natural ingredient list.

K9 Slim

K9 Slim is a weight management supplement that will help your large dog shed extra pounds without the loss of muscle mass or energy. It supports healthy metabolism and joint health.

Key Ingredients:

  • Bioflavonoids: Studies in Frontiers in Veterinary Science have confirmed that flavonoids are powerful compounds that help dogs flush fat-storing toxins and jumpstart their metabolism.
  • Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): According to the article "Antiobesity Mechanisms of Action of Conjugated Linoleic Acid," this compound helps your dog break down fat stores and convert them into clean energy without losing muscle.
  • L-Carnitine: This is another compound that acts as a "taxi driver" for long-chain fatty acids. It transports fat into cells where it's burned off as energy. As such, it promotes fat loss and supports joint health due to its essential fatty acids.
  • Astaxanthin: According to Sztretye et al. (2019), astaxanthin has anti-inflammatory properties, and it significantly enhances immune function and supports joint health.
  • Dandelion Root: This is a gentle detoxifier that assists in digestion, helps in reducing bloating, and supports liver health.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love K9 Slim:

  • Provides nutritional support
  • Improves metabolism
  • Flushes out fat-storing toxins
  • Supports joint health and mobility
  • Naturally reduces inflammation
  • Helps your dog eat less without feeling hungry.

Feeding Guide:

  • Under 50 lbs: 1 scoop daily
  • Over 50 lbs: 2 scoops daily

Shop our K9 Slim today.

Dog beside K9 Soothe Anti-Itch Spray with a list of natural ingredients.

K9 Soothing Spray

K9 Soothe will be a relief for your senior dog who's dealing with itchy skin, hot spots, or other skin conditions. It soothes irritated skin and moisturizes your dog’s coat for comfort and extra shine.

Key Ingredients:

  • BioFlavin Extract: As noted above, flavonoids are strong anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic elements. They target skin issues and allergies, and help heal painful hot spots and flush out the root cause of itching and scratching.
  • Ozonated Coconut Oil: This particular addition assists our BioFlavin Extract by helping with topical absorption. It also offers an antibacterial defense to keep germs and fleas at bay.
  • Rose Water: Often used in cosmetic products, rose water hydrates and rejuvenates your dog's skin and fur, leaving it soft and nourished.
  • Aloe: Since days of old, aloe has been recognized because of its soothing properties. In our senior dog supplements, it helps stop allergic reactions and reduce inflammation.
  • Witch Hazel: Just like aloe, witch hazel has a long-standing reputation in skin health. In older dogs, it reduces dermatitis around hotspots, providing much-needed relief.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love K9 Soothing Spray:

  • Provides relief from hot spots
  • Soothes and moisturizes skin and coat
  • Controls irritation
  • Relieves discomfort
  • Relieves itching

Feeding Guide:

  • Apply 3 sprays per use on the affected area.
  • Use up to 3 times a day as needed.

Shop our K9 Soothing Spray today.

Veterinarian holding a small dog beside a bottle of dog ear cleaner.

K9 EarClear

K9 EarClear is an important addition to your senior dog's supplementation regimen if they're prone to ear infections. This is a gentle and effective formula that cleans and soothes your dog's ears, addressing common conditions, such as wax buildup and infections.

Key Ingredients:

  • Ozonated Olive Oil: This is a natural ingredient that helps dissolve hardened wax deposits and soothes sensitive ear tissue. It's effective at keeping your dog’s ears healthy.
  • Grapefruit Extract: It provides powerful antibacterial and antifungal support that can neutralize the harmful invaders inside your dog's ears, without irritation or side effects.
  • Fennel Extract: This compound has anti-inflammatory agents that reduce irritation and swelling to give relief in chronic inflammation of the ears.
  • Bioflavonoids: As noted in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, these are plant-based antioxidants that shield your dog’s sensitive ear tissues, making it a real challenge for any threatening toxins to survive.
  • MCT Oil: We add this ingredient because it's a high-quality carrier oil that makes sure the healing compounds above spread throughout the ear canal while keeping the moisture level optimum.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love K9 EarClear:

  • Gently removes built-up wax for cleaner, healthier ears
  • Helps prevent and manage ear infections
  • Soothes irritation caused by allergies
  • Relieves itching to keep your dog comfortable
  • Protects against ear mites and keeps them at bay

Feeding Guide:

  • Over 20 lbs: 1 dropper per ear
  • Less than 20 lbs: 1/2 dropper per ear

Shop our K9 EarClear today.

5. Soothing Chews & Anxiety Supplements for Anxious Seniors

As dogs age, they tend to get increasingly anxious due to changes in the environment or declining health. Our calming chews reduce undue stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation for your senior pup.

Serenity Chews from Pup Labs
100% ALL NATURAL CHEWS

Serenity Calming Chews

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Serenity Calming Chews

We formulate Serenity Calming Chews to reduce anxiety and stress, and help your anxious senior dog relax. These chews contain natural ingredients known for their calming effects.

Key Ingredients:

  • Chamomile Extract: Known for its anti-anxiety properties, chamomile reduces stress and discomfort while helping with a nervous stomach.
  • Hemp Pulp: It helps relax the mind and body, especially during very stressful events such as separation, travel, or behavior modification.
  • Oats: These also contain linoleic acid and are a superfood that helps in regulating blood glucose levels, thus keeping your dog calm.
  • Peanut Butter Flavor: We add peanut butter for its delicious flavor to ensure your dog will love the chews.
  • Honey: Provides antioxidants and increases energy levels to keep your dog happy and relaxed.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love Serenity Calming Chews:

  • Supports appropriate conduct
  • Reduces canine stress and anxiety
  • Delicious all-natural peanut butter flavor
  • Supports gut health
  • Keeps your dog happy and healthy

Feeding Guide:

  • 2–25 lbs: ½ chew per day
  • Under 50 lbs: 1 chew per day
  • Over 50 lbs: 2 chews per day

Shop our Serenity Calming Chews today.

6. Senior Dog Supplement Bundles & Value Packs

At Pup Labs, we offer a number of senior dog supplement bundles that can help treat everything from joint health to gut health and beyond. These value packs ensure that your senior dog gets all the essential nutrients necessary to keep them thriving.

Pup Labs dog chew packages with a 180-day money-back badge.

360 Support Bundle

Our 360 Support Bundle is a value pack that carries a number of key dietary supplements that help address joint issues, bad breath, and digestive health. In this bundle, your dog gets the Freedom Joint Chews, Fresh Breathies Dental Health Chews, and Tummy Essentials Digestive Chews discussed above.

Why Senior Pet Parents Love the 360 Support Bundle:

  • Eliminates bad breath
  • Supports gums and teeth
  • Helps with joint mobility
  • Aids gut and immune function
  • Delay progression of age-related decline
  • Reduces inflammation for healthier intestines, joints, and heart

Feeding Guide:

    • Up to 15 lbs: 1 chew daily
    • 15–45 lbs: 2 chews daily
    • 45–75 lbs: 3 chews a day
    • Over 75 lbs: 4 chews daily

    Shop our 360 Support Bundle today.

    Pup Labs Tummy Essentials and Fresh Breathies dog chews with 180-day money-back badge.

    Gut Health Bundle

    Our Gut Health Bundle is perfect for senior dogs that need extra digestive care. Made with ingredients that support a healthy microbiome and decrease inflammation, this bundle will keep your dog's digestion moving along smoothly and support overall wellness. This bundle contains two supplements, specifically the Tummy Essentials and Fresh Breathies Chews.

    Why Senior Pet Parents Love the Gut Health Bundle:

    • Reduces bad breath
    • Supports gums and teeth
    • Aids gut and immune function
    • Combats age-related decline
    • Reduces inflammation for healthier intestines, joints, and heart

    Feeding Guide:

    • Up to 15 lbs: 1 chew daily
    • 15–45 lbs: 2 chews daily
    • 45–75 lbs: 3 chews daily
    • Over 75 lbs: 4 chews daily

    Shop our Gut Health Bundle today.

    At Pup Labs, we're committed to improving your senior dog's quality of life. We create our supplements with targeted ingredients that are backed and grounded in research and evidence.

    Explore our senior dog supplements today and keep your furry friend happy and healthy as they get older.

    Doctor holding a brown supplement bottle near a basket of fresh fruits.

    Choosing the Right Supplements for Your Older Dog: A Buyer's Guide

    1. Always Begin with a Veterinary Consultation

    A good rule of thumb is to consult with your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog's diet. They'll be able to recommend the best products based on your dog's particular needs and current health status. Here are reasons to consult a vet first:

    • Tailor the Supplement to Individual Needs: Not every dog has the same health concerns
    • Identify Specific Deficiencies or Issues: Knowing exactly what your dog is facing will be a big help in your selection
    • Prevent Hazardous Interactions: This will ensure that the supplements you choose don’t interact negatively with any prescription medications or alternative treatments
    • Avoid Harmful Ingredients: Look for supplements that don't contain detrimental additives, fillers, or artificial preservatives

    2. Scrutinize Quality, Certification, and Ingredients

    Choose supplements from reputable companies with clear ingredient and dosage labels. Make sure active ingredients are supported with scientific research for senior dog health. Ensure you do the following:

    • Demand Clear Ingredient and Dosage Labels: Confirm that the manufacturer clearly lists each active ingredient and potency, for example, the milligrams of glucosamine. Avoid products that hide ingredients.
    • Prioritize Key Active Ingredients:
      • For Joint Health: Glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, MSM, green-lipped mussel, and omega-3 fatty acids (in fish oil)
      • For Cognitive Health: Omega-3 fatty acids, essential amino acids, especially DHA, antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E, and MCT oil
      • For General Immune Health: Focus on probiotics and B-vitamin complex.
    • Avoid Unnecessary Fillers and Artificial Additives: Watch out for common fillers like corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors and flavors
      Demand Manufacturing Excellence:
      • cGMP Compliance: Ensures identity, strength, quality, and purity in the product through strict policies regarding raw ingredient sourcing, manufacturing, and packaging.
      • HACCP Food Safety Management: This system helps identify potential hazards within the manufacturing process and prevents those risks from affecting the end product.
      • FDA & State Regulations: Reputable manufacturers take the initiative to make sure their supplement products follow FDA guidelines and relevant state regulations.
      • NASC Quality Seal: The NASC seal indicates that the manufacturing company was audited and met stringent standards regarding quality control, auditing of facilities, and reporting of adverse events.
    • Avoid Misleading Claims: Misleading or illegal medicinal claims, such as those suggesting the product can “cure,” “treat,” or “prevent” disease, are prohibited by law and can classify the product as an unapproved drug.

    3. Consider the Form and Palatability of the Supplement

    The best supplement for your senior dog is the one they can actually take. Many dogs are picky eaters, so choosing a supplement that suits your dog's preferences is crucial. Consider the following when selecting:

    Choose the Right Delivery Method:

    • Soft Chews: Many senior dogs enjoy chews. These tend to be the most palatable option. They're soft and usually tasty; hence, excellent for picky eaters.
    • Powders: You can easily mix powders into your dog's food. They’re excellent when your dog won't take a supplement in chew form.
    • Liquids/Drops: Great for dogs with dental disease or ones that may have a problem chewing. You can also easily add drops to your pet's diet.

    Be Patient and Monitor Response

    Most therapeutic supplements, such as glucosamine for joints, take time to exhibit a positive effect. Allow 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use before evaluating effectiveness and changing your dog's diet.

    Keep track of your dog's progress. For instance, if you’re giving it a joint supplement, monitor mobility and comfort levels over time.

    Take into Consideration the Cost/Dosage Frequency

    Compare the cost per day and required "loading dose" (the higher dose usually administered at the beginning) vs. the long-term maintenance dose to find the most economical and sustainable option for the size of your dog.

    FAQs

    What is the Best Supplement for Older Dogs?

    Veterinary teams note that the best supplement for older canines depends on your dog's specific needs. For general joint health, a product containing glucosamine, MSM, green-lipped mussel, omega fatty acids, and turmeric can help. Look for probiotics and digestive enzymes in support of gut health. If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, consider a calming chew with natural ingredients such as chamomile and hemp pulp.

    Do Dogs Need Vitamin Supplements as They Age?

    Yes! Nutritional needs change as dogs get older. As such, vitamin supplements may be helpful as they support joint health, cognitive function, and immune system health.

    Which Supplements Give an Older Dog More Energy?

    Look for supplements that support metabolism and muscle health. B12, especially methylcobalamin, will help increase energy and also promote gut health. L-carnitine will help your dog burn fat for fuel instead of storing it. Omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, have potent anti-inflammatory properties and can improve overall vitality.

    Why Is My Senior Dog So Tired?

    Senior dogs get tired more easily because they may have joint pain, arthritis, or muscle loss, along with poor cognitive function. Using joint health supplements, fish oil supplements, antioxidants, and alternative therapies can help with fatigue.

    Give Your Senior Dog the Life They Deserve

    The needs of our furry companions change as they grow older, and we want the best for them. Supplements for senior dogs, when of the right kind, can make all the difference in their lives. 
    Improve your dog's quality of life today. Explore our full range of products for the ideal supplement for your senior dog. Don't wait anymore; your furry friend deserves the best.
    Shop our senior dog supplements today!

    References

    • Biotics Research. (n.d.). L-Glutamine - Old Dog, New Tricks.
    • Cho, H. W., Choi, S., Seo, K., Kim, K. H., Jeon, J. H., Kim, C. H., ... & Chun, J. L. (2022). Gut microbiota profiling in aged dogs after feeding pet food contained Hericium erinaceus. Journal of Animal Science and Technology, 64(5), 937.
    • Dickson, E. (2021, April 28). Improving pet food digestibility with yucca schidigera. Alltech.
    • Fox, B. A., & Stephens, M. M. (2007). Glucosamine hydrochloride for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms. Clinical interventions in aging, 2(4), 599-604.
    • Gollakner, R. (2020). Medicinal Mushrooms. VCA Animal Hospitals.
    • Gollakner, R. (2020). Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM. VCA Animal Hospitals.
    • Kayser, E., Castaneda, P. L., Soto-Diaz, K., Steelman, A. J., Murphy, A., Spindola, M., ... & de Godoy, M. R. (2024). Functional properties of Ganoderma lucidum supplementation in canine nutrition. Journal of animal science, 102, skae051.
    • Kennedy, A., Martinez, K., Schmidt, S., Mandrup, S., LaPoint, K., & McIntosh, M. (2010). Antiobesity mechanisms of action of conjugated linoleic acid. The Journal of nutritional biochemistry, 21(3), 171-179.
    • Kępińska-Pacelik, J., & Biel, W. (2023). Turmeric and curcumin—health-promoting properties in humans versus dogs. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(19), 14561.
    • Liu, Z., Liu, T., Zhang, Z., & Fan, Y. (2024). Bacillus coagulans regulates gut microbiota and ameliorates the alcoholic-associated liver disease in mice. Frontiers in Microbiology, 15, 1337185.
    • Mahalak, K. K., Firrman, J., Narrowe, A. B., Hu, W., Jones, S. M., Bittinger, K., ... & Liu, L. (2023). Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) differentially modifies the in vitro gut microbiota in an age-dependent manner. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 1058910.
    • Móritz, A. V., Kovács, H., Jerzsele, Á., Psáder, R., & Farkas, O. (2024). Flavonoids in mitigating the adverse effects of canine endotoxemia. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 11, 1396870.
    • Satyaraj, E., Reynolds, A., Engler, R., Labuda, J., & Sun, P. (2021). Supplementation of diets with spirulina influences immune and gut function in dogs. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8, 667072.
    • Schmid, S. M. & Tolbert, K. (2020, September 30). Essential to Every Cell: Cobalamin in Health and Disease. Today's Veterinary Practice.
    • Serra Aguado, C. I., Ramos-Plá, J. J., Soler, C., Segarra, S., Moratalla, V., & Redondo, J. I. (2021). Effects of oral hyaluronic acid administration in dogs following tibial tuberosity advancement surgery for cranial cruciate ligament injury. Animals, 11(5), 1264.
    • Stewart, A. J. (2024, September). Disorders of Magnesium Metabolism in Dogs. MSD Veterinary Manual.
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