If you already give your dog a multivitamin, you probably have most of what’s on the list I’m about to give you on the back of the package. It gets so confusing for a dog owner than doesn’t know what each one of these vitamins and minerals actually do for your dog, so it’s good to have a list that explains each and every one of them. Let’s go down the list in alphabetical order.
Beta-Carotene – A vital antioxidant that can protect against certain forms of cancer; may enhance immune system
Calcium – Keeps their bones, teeth and gums healthy; is needed for blood coagulation and a regular heartbeat; keeps their nerves and muscles functioning well
Choline – essential for metabolizing fat, needed for healthy brain and nerve functioning, may help to prevent dementia
Chromium – enhances the action if insulin, assists with metabolism, may aid body fat loss and glucose regulation
Cobalt – required for production of red blood cells, necessary for nerve formation, aids iron absorption
Copper – necessary for bone growth and maintenance, absorption of iron, development of red blood cells
Green Tea Extract – a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage
Inositol – helps to move fats out of the liver, needed for healthy nerve transmissions, is also involved in neurotransmitter metabolism
Iodine – essential for proper functioning of the thyroid gland; regulates metabolism; supports normal growth
Iron – necessary for carrying oxygen in the blood, helps maintain healthy immune system
Lecithin – antioxidant, may improve cognitive disorders
Linoleic Acid – an omega 6 fatty acid that maintains healthy skin and coat
Magnesium – necessary for absorption of certain vitamins and minerals; helps in the formation of teeth and bones; supports a healthy heart
Methionine – an essential amino acid that assists the gall bladder; balances urinary tract pH levels; can treat and prevent urinary stones; is involved in neurotransmitter metabolism
Phosphorus – needed for healthy bones, teeth, kidneys, heart and metabolism
Potassium – a mineral necessary for many normal functions of the body; essential for healthy heart and kidneys; maintains fluid balance in cells
Selenium – an important mineral with antioxidant properties
Xanthophyll – vital to eye health, may help prevent cataracts
Zinc – necessary for the production of enzymes; important for skin and coat health
Vitamin A – This is necessary for normal vision, good eye health and night vision; it’s crucial for their reproductive health; it helps itchy, dry skin; it’s essential for the normal growth and development of puppies
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine) – produces normal functioning of the nervous system; necessary for the bulk of cellular reaction in their body; produces good metabolism and alertness
Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin) – regulates certain hormones; helps prevent cataracts in the eyes; it’s essential to energy generation, nerve and blood development
Vitamin B-3 (Niacin) – produces good energy metabolism and proper circulation; creates healthy skin and normal functioning of the nervous system
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid) – this is essential for the process of converting food to energy; helps the healing of wounds; relieves stress and fatigue
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine) – necessary for the functioning of the nervous system and the immune system; helps their metabolism
Vitamin B-7 (Biotin/Vitamin H) – critical for normal growth and development; improves their skin and coat; can also helps prevent coprophagia (dog eating its own excrement)
Vitamin B-9 (Folic Acid) – necessary for the creation of DNA in pregnant dogs; essential for the growth and reproduction of all body cells
Vitamin B-10 (PABA) – good for growth support
Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin) – promotes growth and cell development and can improve your dog’s appetite
Vitamin C – strengthens normal joint function; supports the immune system; maintains healthy skin
Vitamin D – necessary for healthy teeth and bones; metabolizes calcium and phosphorus; creates good nerve and muscle function
Vitamin E – this is a very strong antioxidant. It helps to maintain good foot pads; boosts the efficiency of the heart and circulation system; is a mild anti-inflammatory,
Vitamin K – essential for normal blood clotting and kidney function
You may want to print out the above vitamin and mineral list to keep it handy. You may find it hard to find all of the above included in your dogs multivitamin, but try to make sure your dog’s food has the majority of good vitamins and minerals to keep him healthy.
I sincerely hope this article was helpful to you. If you would like more information on any dog needs whether it’s natural/organic nutrition, dog training, tough dog toys, dog gifts, allergy kits, flea control and more, please visit http://www.TailWaggingSolutions.blogspot.com. While you are there you can enjoy reading “Just For Doggie Laughs” and “Putter’s Doggie Tips for the Week.” Here’s to loving your dog.
