Like us, dogs have unique needs depending on their age, diet and health status. It can be difficult to know which vitamins your dog needs and how best to support them. This guide breaks down the role of vitamins in supporting your dog’s health, including when they’re helpful and how to choose the best multivitamin.
🕒 5 min read
Do Pets Need Vitamins?
This depends on several factors, such as your pet's age and breed. Most dog foods already contain vitamins; however, your pet’s health and lifestyle can affect how well they are absorbed by the body, meaning they may require a multivitamin supplement. Whether your dog is ageing, recovering, fussy, stressed, or struggling with joint issues, we offer targeted solutions to help.
When Are Dog Vitamins Helpful?
If you’re not sure, here are a few common scenarios where adding a vitamin might be helpful:
- Older pets who may need extra joint, immune or cognitive support
- Picky eaters who skip meals or stick to the same limited foods
- Homemade or raw-fed dogs where nutritional balance isn’t guaranteed
- Recovering pets getting over illness, surgery, or stress
- Everyday support during seasonal changes or increased activity
In short, if your pet seems low on energy, struggles with coat condition, or doesn’t bounce back like they used to, it might be time to consider giving them a multivitamin.
Can I Give My Pet A Human Vitamin?
No, dogs and other pets shouldn’t take human vitamins. They metabolise nutrients differently than we do, and while the same vitamins are beneficial, the higher dosage in human supplements can be dangerous to pets, along with added fillers, flavourings, and artificial sweeteners which can be toxic to animals.
Instead, stick to pet-specific formulas that are safer, simpler, and easier for them to take.
What Vitamins Are Good For Dogs?
Dogs need several essential vitamins in their daily diet. Some of the most commonly lacking vitamins from food alone include:
- Vitamin A: Helps to support healthy vision, immune strength and skin repair for growing puppies and senior dogs.
- Vitamin B1: Also known as Thiamine, it supports the nervous system and energy metabolism, keeping your dog sharp.
- Vitamins B2 and B3: Including Riboflavin and Niacin, great for the skin, coat and digestion.
- Vitamin B5: Good for hormone production and energy.
- Vitamin B6: Vital for brain health, mood regulation, and immune strength.
- Vitamin B12: Important for red blood cell production and nerve function.
- Vitamin C: Reduces inflammation, boosts immunity and aids in recovery.
- Vitamin D3: Helps with calcium absorption and bone strength, crucial for mobility in older dogs.
- Vitamin E: A natural antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
- Folic Acid: Important for younger dogs or those recovering from illness, it aids cell function and growth.
- Biotin: Promotes healthy skin, reduces shedding and encourages a shiny and soft coat.
What To Look for When Choosing a Dog Multivitamin
When choosing a dog multivitamin, you should look for species-specific supplements for dogs and their unique needs. Whether you’re looking for a solution to a specific problem, such as joint supplements for dogs, or an all-round multivitamin, you’ll want a multivitamin that is transparent in the ingredients and sourcing, with active forms of vitamins and no artificial flavours or colours.
Most importantly, ensure that your dog multivitamin is vet-developed with high-quality production in mind.
The Best Multivitamins For Dogs At VetVits
Here at VetVits, we believe in providing premium-quality, science-backed supplements and vitamins for all pets, including dogs. With over 25 years of health experience, our dog multivitamins can help support your furry friend’s wellbeing, depending on their needs and age.
MultiVitality for Dogs
A daily multivitamin for dogs packed with the essential nutrients to support skin, coat, joints, digestion and overall vitality. Perfect for younger or active dogs who need help with nutritional balance as they grow, play and explore.
With a delicious natural beef flavour and 18 key nutrients, this dog multivitamin is popular among pets and helps support joint and immune health.
Includes:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12
- Biotin
- Vitamin C
MultiVitality Senior
This multivitamin for senior dogs supports brain function and energy levels. With added glucosamine for joint health and antioxidants to support immune and brain function, it helps to promote alertness and mobility in dogs over the age of 7.
Includes:
- Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12
- Biotin
- Folic Acid
How Do I Give My Dog Their Vitamins?
If your dog tends to eat anything dropped on the floor, giving them a tablet is easy. If not, here are some options to help:
- Hide the tablet in a soft treat or bit of cheese
- Hide the tablet in their favourite flavoured chew
- Crush it and mix it into their wet food
- Pair taking the multivitamin with a walk or belly rub to create positive reinforcement
Can My Dog Take Too Many Vitamins?
Yes, this is why it’s important to check with your vet before giving your pet a multivitamin. Doubling up on supplements or mixing a multivitamin with boosters or food should be done carefully. If you’ve already got fortified food or your dog isn’t displaying signs of vitamin deficiency, don’t layer more on top.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering giving your pet a multivitamin, speak to your vet to assess whether they need one first. If your dog does require extra nutritional support, help them feel their best with VetVits’ trusted dog supplements. Discover our full range of pet health products designed to support every stage of their life.
