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Supplements
Prior to using any medication, nutritional, herbal or homeopathic product or before beginning any diet program or starting any type of treatment for a health issue you should consult your veterinarian.
Ask about interactions between medications your pup is taking and/or nutritional supplements. Every dog is different and may react differently to different products.
Supplements
Glucosamine. Probiotics. Omega-3. CBD.
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Ensuring your dog's health and vitality involves more than just regular exercise and a balanced diet; the thoughtful inclusion of specific supplements can play a pivotal role in supporting joint health, mobility, and a shiny coat. This guide highlights key supplements—glucosamine, prebiotics, probiotics, and omega fatty acids—and their scientifically-backed benefits for your pup.
Joint, Mobility, and Coat Health
A combination of glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and probiotics offers comprehensive support for your dog's health. Glucosamine rebuilds cartilage and supports joint function, omega fatty acids lubricate joints and promote skin and coat health, while probiotics have a direct link to behavior and wellbeing, and at the same time optimize nutrient absorption, ensuring all other supplements work effectively. These combined benefits help maintain your dog’s active lifestyle and healthy appearance.
Pain, seizures, and anxiety
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant, shows promise in managing pain, seizures, and anxiety in dogs. Studies suggest CBD can relieve osteoarthritis discomfort, reduce seizure frequency, and alleviate stress-related behaviors in anxious dogs. While results are encouraging, further research is needed, and veterinary guidance is recommended before use.
Why Recommend pawTree?
pawTree is a trusted name in canine health and wellness, known for producing high-quality supplements that meet rigorous scientific and safety standards. Their expertise in real-food whole ingredient formulations translates seamlessly to their supplement product line, ensuring dogs receive supplements crafted to the same exceptional standards. With products developed by veterinarians and nutritionists for potency and purity, pawTree delivers minimally processed, safe, and reliable solutions for canine dietary health and wellness supplements.
Please review the curated information below for each supplement, which includes source links to studies supporting their efficacy.
Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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Prebiotics & Probiotics
Behavior. Wellbeing. Digestion
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
A balanced gut is vital for overall health. Prebiotics act as food for beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that maintain and improve intestinal flora. Together, they enhance digestion, support the immune system, and improve nutrient absorption, leading to healthier, happier dogs.
Emerging research suggests a significant link between the gut microbiome and canine behavior, including aggression. Studies indicate that the composition of gut bacteria can influence behavioral traits, potentially offering new avenues for managing behavioral issues including aggression in dogs.
Gut Microbiome and Aggression: A study analyzing rescued dogs found distinct differences in gut microbiome compositions between aggressive and non-aggressive individuals. Aggressive dogs exhibited higher levels of certain bacterial phyla, such as Firmicutes and Fusobacteria, compared to their non-aggressive counterparts. Source
Behavioral Probiotics: Research in rodents has demonstrated that altering gut bacteria through probiotics can modify behavior. For instance, transferring gut bacteria from anxious mice to calm ones induced anxiety-like behaviors in the recipients. This suggests that specific probiotics might have the potential to influence behavior by modulating the gut-brain axis. Source
Canine Studies: While direct studies on probiotics affecting dog aggression are limited, the observed association between gut microbiota and behavior implies that probiotic interventions could be beneficial. Probiotics may help restore a healthy gut microbiome balance, potentially alleviating behavioral issues linked to dysbiosis. Source
While the direct impact of probiotics on reducing canine aggression requires further research, the connection between gut health and behavior is evident. Probiotics offer a promising approach to supporting behavioral health in dogs by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
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Glucosamine
Joints. Mobility. Osteoarthritis.
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that supports the repair and maintenance of joint cartilage. Research shows that glucosamine, especially when paired with chondroitin sulfate, can alleviate discomfort from osteoarthritis, improve joint function, and enhance mobility. These supplements are ideal for dogs experiencing joint stiffness or age-related mobility issues.
Combination Supplements: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial evaluated a dietary supplement containing glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and other ingredients in dogs with OA. The study found significant alleviation of pain and reduction in clinical signs, suggesting potential benefits of such combinations. Source
Comparative Efficacy: Another study assessed the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate compared to marine-based fatty acid compounds and carprofen in dogs with hip OA. Results indicated that while carprofen and marine-based compounds showed significant improvements, the glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate group did not exhibit significant changes compared to placebo. Source
Systematic Reviews: A systematic review of clinical trials on OA treatments in dogs provided a moderate level of comfort regarding the efficacy of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate combinations, indicating some supportive evidence but also highlighting the need for further research. Source
While some studies suggest potential benefits of glucosamine, particularly in combination with other compounds, the evidence is not uniformly conclusive. A tailored approach, guided by veterinary advice, is essential when considering glucosamine supplementation for managing canine osteoarthritis.
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Omega Fatty Acids
Cardiovascular. Skin. Coat.
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining skin and coat health while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits for joint support. Found in sources such as fish oil and flaxseed, these fatty acids reduce joint inflammation, improve mobility, and help dogs maintain a shiny, healthy coat.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a crucial role in various physiological functions in dogs. Recent studies have explored their impact on canine health, revealing several significant benefits.
Dermatological Health: Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids can alleviate pruritus (itchiness) and improve coat condition in dogs with atopic dermatitis. In a controlled trial, dogs supplemented with fish oil exhibited significant improvements in pruritus and overall skin condition compared to those receiving a corn oil placebo. Source
Cardiovascular Support: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to benefit dogs with certain cardiovascular conditions. Their anti-inflammatory properties and potential to modulate lipid metabolism contribute to improved heart health. Source
The appropriate dosage of omega-3 fatty acids depends on the dog's weight and specific health condition. For managing osteoarthritis, a common recommendation is approximately 75-100 mg of combined EPA and DHA per kilogram of body weight daily. However, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the optimal dosage for your dog's individual needs. Source
Osteoarthritis Management: A randomized, double-blinded clinical trial assessed the effects of a diet high in fish oil-derived omega-3 fatty acids on dogs with osteoarthritis. The study found that dogs receiving the omega-3 enriched diet showed significant improvement in clinical signs of osteoarthritis compared to the control group. Source
Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
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Fish Oil Supplements: Provide concentrated sources of EPA and DHA. Ensure products are of high quality and free from contaminants.
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Marine-Based Diets: Incorporating fish such as anchovies or sardines can naturally increase omega-3 intake. However, be mindful of potential mercury content and consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Omega-3 fatty acids offer several health benefits for dogs, particularly in managing osteoarthritis and improving skin conditions. Tailored supplementation, under veterinary guidance, can enhance your dog's quality of life.
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Plaque Control
Periodontal. Systemic. Health.
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Dental plaque, a biofilm of bacteria on dogs' teeth, is a primary contributor to periodontal disease, which can significantly impact canine health. Peer-reviewed studies have examined the effects of dental plaque and interventions to manage its accumulation.
- Periodontal Disease Progression: Research indicates that as periodontal disease advances in dogs, there is a notable increase in pathogenic bacteria, such as Porphyromonas species, within dental plaque. This shift underscores the role of plaque in disease progression. Source
- Systemic Health Implications: While direct studies on systemic effects are limited, the presence of periodontal pathogens in canine oral cavities suggests potential risks for systemic health issues, similar to findings in human studies. Maintaining oral hygiene is therefore crucial to prevent possible systemic complications. Source
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Oral Care Products: The use of specific enzymes and probiotics has been shown to reduce bacterial counts in dental plaque. For instance, dextranase enzyme and Enterococcus faecium probiotic demonstrated anti-biofilm effects, decreasing bacterial colonies in the oral cavities of dogs. Source
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Dental Treats: Administration of dental treats with mechanical properties and active ingredients can provide a 24-hour effect on reducing dental plaque bacteria and halitosis in dogs, contributing to better oral health. Source
Maintaining your dog's oral hygiene is essential not only for preventing dental diseases but also for supporting overall health. Regular dental care, appropriate use of oral health products, and professional veterinary guidance are key components in managing dental plaque and its associated risks.
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Cannabidiol CBD
Pain. Seizures. Anxiety.
By Carlos F Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in dogs. Recent studies have explored its effects on various canine health conditions, yielding promising yet preliminary results.
- Pain Management and Osteoarthritis: A study by Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine evaluated the impact of CBD oil on dogs with osteoarthritis. Administering CBD at a dose of 4.4 mg per pound twice daily resulted in significant pain relief and improved activity levels in the treated dogs. Source
- Seizure Reduction: Research into CBD's anticonvulsant properties indicates potential benefits for dogs with epilepsy. In a clinical trial, dogs receiving CBD oil experienced a reduction in seizure frequency, suggesting its viability as an adjunctive treatment for canine epilepsy. Source
- Anxiety Alleviation: A 2023 study investigated CBD's effects on dogs with separation and travel anxiety. Dogs administered 4 mg/kg of CBD showed fewer stress-related behaviors during anxiety-inducing situations compared to those given a placebo, indicating CBD's potential calming effects. Source
While CBD shows potential in managing conditions such as pain, seizures, and anxiety in dogs, further research is necessary to fully understand its efficacy and safety. A cautious approach, under veterinary guidance, is recommended when considering CBD as a therapeutic option for your pup.