Patrick MacFarland ·
Updated February 18, 2025
Small dogs need special care and attention when it comes to their health. Their small size and high metabolism mean they may need extra support to stay healthy and active throughout their lives.
Adding the right supplements to your small dog’s diet can help with joint health, digestion, energy levels, and immune system function. Many small breeds benefit from supplements as they get older, but starting early can help prevent health issues before they begin.
1. Healthy Bite Hip and Joint Chewables
To enhance your pet’s quality of life, especially as they age, consider integrating comprehensive nutritional support through products such as hip and joint chewables, multivitamins, and probiotics, which are designed to address specific health needs effectively.
2. Healthy Bite Multivitamins and Probiotics
You can also augment the balanced diet by including a multivitamin that can fill any nutritional gaps, helping maintain their overall health and vitality. Adding probiotics to your pet’s diet can also support their digestive health, which is essential for proper nutrient absorption and a robust immune system.
3. Omega-3 Fish Oil for Skin and Coat
Your small dog needs omega-3 fatty acids to maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat. Fish oil supplements offer dogs many health benefits, similar to what they provide for humans. If you notice your small dog has dry, itchy skin or a dull coat, they might need more omega-3s in their diet. Dogs get these essential fatty acids from their food, but sometimes they need extra help through supplements.
4. Zesty Paws Mobility Bites for Hip & Joint
Your small dog can benefit from Zesty Paws Mobility Bites, a popular supplement that supports hip and joint health. These chewable treats come in a tasty bacon flavor that small dogs love. The treats contain key ingredients like OptiMSM, Glucosamine HCl that help maintain your dog’s muscle and joint function. The formula works well for dogs of all sizes, including tiny breeds.
5. Solid Gold SeaMeal Mineral & Vitamin Supplement
Solid Gold SeaMeal combines red, green, and brown seaweed species to support your small dog’s health. This kelp-based supplement comes in both powder and chew forms, making it easy to give to picky eaters. The supplement contains 60 minerals, 12 vitamins, and 22 amino acids plus omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients work together to improve your dog’s skin, coat, and digestive health.
6. NaturVet Senior Wellness Bladder Support
Your aging small dog may need extra help maintaining healthy bladder control. NaturVet’s Senior Advanced Incontinence supplements are specially formulated for senior dogs over one year old who need maximum urinary support. These supplements contain a blend of natural ingredients that help maintain normal muscle tone in your dog’s bladder. The time-release tablets work throughout the day to support healthy bladder control and normal urination patterns.
7. Nutramax Cosequin DS Plus MSM
Nutramax Cosequin DS Plus MSM is a trusted joint health supplement for small dogs. The chewable tablets contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM to support your dog’s joint function and mobility. Your small dog will find these supplements easy to take. They come in tasty soft chews that most dogs enjoy eating.
8. PetHonesty Allergy Relief Immunity Supplement
Your small dog deserves relief from seasonal allergies and itchy skin. PetHonesty’s Allergy Support supplements come in soft, chewable treats that are easy for tiny dogs to eat. These treats contain natural ingredients like probiotics, turmeric, and salmon oil to help your pet’s immune system. The vet-recommended formula targets allergy symptoms while supporting healthy skin and coat.
9. Farm Hounds Dog Treats
Dog treats and chews play a crucial role in a pet’s life, offering not only a source of enjoyment but also benefits for their health and behavior. Treats can be used as a powerful training tool, while chews help maintain dental health by reducing plaque and keeping gums strong.
Farm Hounds emphasizes the health benefits and safety of their 100% meat dog treats and chews, made without fillers or preservatives. They proudly support regenerative agriculture and humane farming practices, ensuring every product is both nutrient-rich and environmentally friendly.
10. NaturVet Hemp Calming Soft Chew
NaturVet’s Hemp Quiet Moments are specially made soft chews that help keep your small dog relaxed and calm. These treats combine hemp seed oil and powder with natural calming ingredients. The chews include chamomile, ginger, and passion flower to promote relaxation. They also contain melatonin and L-tryptophan to reduce stress and anxiety in your pet.
Understanding Supplement Needs for Small Dogs
Small dogs have unique nutritional requirements due to their fast metabolism and small stomach size. Their bodies process nutrients differently than larger breeds, which affects their supplement needs.
Factors Influencing Supplement Requirements
Small breed dogs have higher energy requirements compared to larger breeds. Their quick metabolism means they burn through nutrients faster. Your small dog needs more frequent, smaller meals to maintain stable blood sugar and energy levels. Age plays a crucial role in supplement needs. Senior small dogs often need joint support supplements as they become more prone to arthritis.
Key factors affecting supplement needs:
- Body weight and size
- Activity level
- Age and life stage
- Existing health conditions
- Current diet quality
Importance of Consulting a Veterinarian
- Your vet can perform blood tests to identify specific nutrient deficiencies in your small dog.
- Different supplements can interact with medications or cause adverse reactions. A vet will help avoid harmful combinations.
- Schedule regular check-ups to adjust supplement dosage as your dog’s needs change. This ensures optimal effectiveness and prevents over-supplementation.
- Record any changes in your dog’s behavior or health after starting new supplements and share these observations with your vet.
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
