What to buy for your dog's problem (3)
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Bad breath, plaque or tartar
Greenies Original
Of the chews on the VOHC list for both plaque and tartar, it costs the least a day for a 30 lb dog. Buy the size for your dog’s weight.
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Stiff or sore joints
Grizzly Salmon Plus
Fish oil has the best evidence for dog joints. This one costs the least for the dose used in a trial.
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Sudden diarrhea
Pro-Kolin Advanced paste
In a trial in dogs with sudden diarrhea, dogs on it got better in a median of 32 hours, against 47 hours on a placebo.
Should I give my dog a multivitamin?
Not if your dog eats a complete and balanced food. If the bag or can says those words, it already has the vitamins and minerals your dog needs. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association says adding more is not needed and can be risky, because some nutrients are toxic in high amounts (WSAVA).
It names one exception: dogs with long coats may need a little more fatty acid for their skin and coat. A fish oil, or a different food, can help. Ask your vet before you add anything. Cooking at home is different: see the question below.
When should your dog see a vet first?
- Mouth: bad breath that does not go away, broken or loose teeth, bleeding or swelling, or eating less. See the dental guide.
- Joints: a limp or stiffness. A supplement does not treat the cause, and your vet can prescribe pain relief. See the joint guide.
- Diarrhea: blood, vomiting, not eating, a weak dog, or diarrhea past 48 to 72 hours. Take a puppy in right away. See the probiotic guide.
Questions
What if I cook my dog’s food at home?
Get the recipe from a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Studies found most home recipes from books and websites, even some written by vets, are not complete and balanced (AAHA 2021).
Sources
- World Small Animal Veterinary Association. Frequently Asked Questions and Myths (Global Nutrition Committee). Updated January 2018. PDF
- Cline MG, et al. 2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2021. PDF
- The sources for each pick are listed on its guide: dental chews, joint supplements, probiotics.