Do I Need to Add Supplements to A Raw Food Diet For Dogs?

If you’re wondering whether or not to add supplements to a raw food diet for dogs there are a few things you should consider first. Providing your dog with a rotation of proteins from diets that are nutritionally tested and complete will provide them with essential nutrients that will encourage overall health without supplements. However, every dog is different and may require different supplements based on their dietary needs and pre-existing conditions.

Risk of Over Supplementing

Adding extra vitamins and minerals without knowing how they’ll react with your dog or conflict can sometimes cause more harm than good. There is a risk of vitamin toxicity with fat soluble vitamins which are stored by the dog’s body as opposed to water soluble vitamins which are more appropriate for dogs because they are able to exit the body. To avoid this concern, add supplements on an as-needed basis and with guidance by your nutritional specialist or integrative veterinarian.

Avoid Synthetic Supplements

Many dog food companies incorporate some kind of synthetic supplements because their production processes destroy the natural vitamins and minerals found in natural raw dog food. Before swapping in supplements with your current kibble, try the switch to an all natural raw food diet to notice the difference and give your dog the essential nutrients their bodies can absorb.

Encourage Supportive Supplements

If your dog is already on a raw food diet and you would like to support their health further, there are many options available that target joints, arthritis, digestion, circulation, immune support.

• Whole fish oil, which helps to promote a better skin and coat, heart, brain, eye and kidney health.
• Tumeric contains curcumin which has been used against ailments like arthritis, cancer, kidney and liver disease, gastrointestinal issues and many more
• Green Lipped Mussel is a natural anti-inflammatory which is safe and also rich in minerals, omega-3s and fatty acids
• Apple Cider Vinegar has a myriad of applications including disinfectant, anti-fungal, pest repellent, pH balancing.

Before you begin to incorporate any supplements yourself, we encourage you to use informed judgement because you know your dog best. If you think they need a supplements or want to give it a try, come talk to us at Iron Will Raw.