🐶 What Vitamins Should I Give to My Dog? A Friendly Guide from One Dog Owner to Another

First Bark

When I first brought home Luna, my golden retriever pup, I thought I had it all figured out. High-quality food? Check. Daily walks? Check. Vet visits? Yep.

But as time went on, I started wondering—what vitamins should I give to my dog to help her thrive, not just survive?

If you're like me—reading food labels, googling ingredients, and second-guessing everything—this guide is for you. Let’s break it all down in a way that’s simple, helpful, and honest.

Why Dog Vitamins Matter (Even With Good Food)

It’s true that high-quality dog food contains many of the nutrients dogs need. But here’s the catch: not all dogs are the same.

Factors that may increase a dog’s need for vitamins include:

• Age (puppies vs. seniors)

• Breed

• Allergies

• Stress or anxiety

• Medical conditions

• Home-cooked diets

Vitamins can help support everything from joint health to digestion, coat shine, and even behaviour.

What Vitamins Should I Give to My Dog? Let’s Break Them Down

Here’s a look at the most common dog vitamins, what they do, and how to know if your dog needs them.

1. Vitamin A – Eye & Skin Health

Vitamin A supports:

• Vision

• Immune system

• Healthy skin and coat

Most dogs get enough from food, but itchy skin or dull coat could be a sign of deficiency.

Natural sources: Liver, carrots, sweet potatoes

2. Vitamin B Complex – Energy & Brain Support

B vitamins are a group, including B1 (thiamine), B6, and B12.

They help with:

• Energy production

• Brain function

• Red blood cell formation

Low B12 is common in dogs with digestive issues. A B-complex chew can be a great energy booster, especially for older dogs.

3. Vitamin C – Immunity & Stress Support

Dogs can produce their own Vitamin C, but under stress or illness, supplementation helps.

It’s known to:

• Support immunity

• Fight inflammation

• Aid in recovery after illness or surgery

Best for: senior dogs, anxious pups, or during seasonal illness spikes

4. Vitamin D – Bone & Muscle Health

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Deficiencies can lead to:

• Weak bones

• Muscle tremors

• Heart issues

Dogs on raw or homemade diets may need D3 supplements, especially in darker winter months.

⚠️ Caution: Too much Vitamin D is toxic—only supplement under guidance.

5. Vitamin E – Skin & Cellular Health

An antioxidant powerhouse, Vitamin E is great for:

• Skin and coat shine

• Muscle function

• Immune support

It also helps with dry, itchy skin and shedding.

Do Dogs Need Multivitamins?

Short answer? Not always—but sometimes.

Your dog may benefit from a multivitamin if:

• They’re on a homemade diet

• They’re recovering from surgery

• They have skin or coat issues

• They’re a senior with low energy

• You’ve consulted your vet and they recommend it

Otherwise, your focus should be on a balanced diet first.

Signs Your Dog May Be Lacking Vitamins

Watch out for these signs—it might be time to ask your vet about supplementation.

The Wrong Way to Supplement: My Quick Fail Story

I once gave Luna a random “human-grade” supplement I had at home. I figured, if it’s good for me, it’s fine for her. Bad move.

She got the runs for 2 days.

Moral of the story? Only use vet-approved dog supplements. Dogs metabolize things differently, and too much of a good thing (like Vitamin D or calcium) can do real damage.

Choosing the Right Dog Vitamins: What to Look For

When you’re shopping for dog vitamins, look for:

✅ Made for dogs
✅ Backed by vets or scientific studies
✅ No artificial colors, flavors, or fillers
✅ Proper dosage per weight
✅ Clear ingredient list

Avoid anything with added sugar or unclear “proprietary blends.”

Our Favorite Dog Supplements

Here’s what I now keep stocked in my kitchen cabinet for Luna:

• Omega-3 Fish Oil – for coat, joints, brain

• Probiotic + Vitamin B Chews – for gut and energy

• Calming Vitamin Treats – with B, C, chamomile, and L-theanine

• Glucosamine + D3 Tablets – now that she’s hitting her senior years

• Calmdogs Calming Dog Treats from Calmshops.co.uk – Our go-to for days when Luna gets anxious from fireworks or guests. They’re packed with soothing herbs and vitamins to naturally ease stress without drowsiness.

Pro Tip: Keep your supplements in a dry, cool spot and mark your calendar for monthly refills.

But… Always Ask Your Vet First

Even if a vitamin looks safe, it’s always smart to double-check. Your vet knows your dog’s breed, age, health history, and diet—and they can help you avoid over-supplementation.

Can Puppies Take Vitamins?

Yes, but they need puppy-specific formulas. Overdosing young dogs on adult doses of calcium or vitamin D can affect bone development.

Look for:

• Puppy multivitamin chews

• DHA and omega-3s for brain development

• Probiotics if your pup has tummy issues

Final Thoughts: So, What Vitamins Should I Give to My Dog?

If you’ve been wondering what vitamins should I give to my dog, the answer depends on your dog’s unique needs. For many, a balanced diet is enough. For others—especially seniors, dogs on homemade diets, or dogs with chronic issues—supplements can be game-changers.

Stick to vet-approved brands, watch for changes in energy, coat, and digestion, and always introduce vitamins gradually.

And most importantly? Love them. That’s the best daily dose of health you can give.