Supplements: Not All Are Equal

The supplement market for both humans and pets has exploded in recent years, with a vast range of products available. But did you know there is little to no regulation in this industry? This means ingredient quality and effectiveness can vary between batches—even within the same brand!

💡 This guide helps pet parents navigate the world of canine supplements, ensuring informed decisions that truly benefit their dogs.

📢 Advertising Does NOT Equal Quality

✔️ Just because a supplement is heavily advertised doesn’t mean it’s the best choice.

✔️ Marketing ensures certain products stay top-of-mind, but it doesn’t guarantee high-quality ingredients or effectiveness.

✔️ A larger marketing budget ≠ better supplement quality.

✨ Always research a product’s ingredients, sourcing, and company ethics before purchasing.

⚠️ The Lack of Regulation in Pet Supplements

✔️ Supplements for both humans & pets are poorly regulated.

✔️ Ingredient quality may fluctuate—meaning each batch might be slightly different.

✔️ A product labelled as “All Natural” isn’t always 100% natural!

🔍 Common Synthetic Ingredients Found in "Natural" Supplements

✔️ Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – Often lab-synthesized rather than derived naturally.

✔️ Zinc Sulphate – A synthetic mineral added to pet food.

✔️ Di-Calcium Phosphate – Created via chemical reactions, not directly sourced from nature.

✔️ Artificial Meat Flavours & Smoke Flavouring – Chemically produced to mimic the taste of meat.

✔️ Sweeteners (Maltodextrin, Artificial Sugars) – Manufactured additives not found in whole foods.

💡 Always check ingredient lists carefully! Some synthetic additives may impact your dog’s health.

🐶 Potential Effects of Synthetic Ingredients on Dogs

✔️ Digestive Upset – Can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

✔️ Allergic Reactions – May lead to itching, skin irritation, or swelling.

✔️ Behavioural Changes – Some additives increase hyperactivity or restlessness.

✔️ Lower Bioavailability – Synthetic nutrients are not always absorbed efficiently, leading to deficiencies.

✔️ Toxicity Risk – Over-supplementing synthetic Vitamin A or D can cause organ damage & lethargy.

✔️ Gastrointestinal Issues – Lab-made Vitamin C may cause diarrhoea or stomach discomfort.

🚨 Human supplements are NOT always safe for dogs!

💊 Are Human Supplements Safe for Dogs?

✔️ Some cheaper human supplements might seem like a good alternative—but they come with risks:

🚨 Ingredient consistency may vary, leading to unpredictable effects.

🚨 Dosage guidelines are designed for humans, NOT dogs—it’s not always safe to adjust for weight alone.🚨 Some human supplements contain harmful additives that dogs can’t metabolize properly.

💡 Always consult a vet or nutritionist before considering human supplements for your dog!

🥩 Does Your Dog Even NEED Supplements?

✔️ If your dog eats a well-varied raw diet including:

✅ Red, white & game meats

✅ Raw eggs & raw oily fish

✅ Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds & herbs

✨ They likely do NOT need supplements—provided they are fit, healthy, and free from pain, stress, or anxiety.

🚨 However, if feeding a single brand or limited diet, supplementation may be necessary.

🔄 What If You Feed Just One Brand of Raw?

✔️ Different brands use different cuts of meat & varying sources.

✔️ Farmed animals contain fewer nutrients than free-range, organic, or grass-fed meats.

✔️ Mixing brands ensures a wider variety of nutrients.

✔️ Rotating brands (daily, weekly, or monthly) can help balance nutrition while staying within budget.

💡 Brand diversity = better nutrition for your dog!

🍽 What If You Only Feed Complete Raw Food?

✔️ Check if your complete raw food includes fruit & vegetables.

✔️ Only ONE brand currently includes raw egg—check labels carefully!

✔️ Many complete raw foods do NOT include raw oily fish but may contain fish oil instead.

🚨 Always review ingredients to ensure your dog isn’t missing key nutrients!

🏋️‍♂️ What If Your Dog Is an Athlete, Ill, Injured, or Stressed?

✔️ Adding Vitamin C can be extremely beneficial in these cases:

✅ Reduces inflammation✅ Boosts the immune system✅ Supports anti-stress hormone production

💡 Want more info? Watch "The Raw Pet Medics" discuss Vitamin C in their video dated 02/05/2023!

📌 How to Spot a Good Supplement

✔️ Is the company well respected in the raw feeding community?

✔️ Do they uphold ethical & sustainability standards?

✔️ Do they source pharmaceutical-grade or organic ingredients?

✔️ Are they transparent about their manufacturing process?

💡 For dog-specific supplements sorted by condition, check out our supplement list here!

🚑 Emergency Supplement Supplies

✔️ Always keep a stock of key items for unexpected needs:

✔️ Dorwest Tree Barks or Proflax Tummy Tastic (great for digestive upset)

✔️ Green-Lipped Mussels (supports joint health & anti-inflammatory effects):

Mr Bones dehydrated whole GLM
Canumi Green-Lipped Mussels
Powdered GLM from Riaflex, Aniforte

🐶 Having these essentials on hand ensures quick action when needed!

🐾 Final Thoughts – Smart Supplement Choices

✔️ Supplements are NOT all created equal—do your research!

✔️ A varied raw diet can eliminate the need for most supplements.

✔️ Mix brands to ensure diverse nutrient intake.

✔️ If supplementation is needed, choose products from reputable companies.

🐾 Informed choices lead to better health—giving your dog the best possible nutrition while avoiding unnecessary risks!

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