Do Dogs Really Need Supplements?
A Holistic Guide to Choosing the Right Supplements for Your Dog’s Health, From Joint Support to Gut Balance
By Melissa | Animal Intuitive, Energy Healer & Holistic Pet Health Coach
The Supplement Graveyard And What It Taught Me About Holistic Healing
Years ago, I had what I now call a “supplement graveyard.” A shelf (or cabinet) full of powders, capsules, oils, and tinctures, most half-used, some unopened. I was trying to help my dogs feel better: itchy skin, loose stools, low energy. Each new product promised a solution. And sometimes, it helped—briefly. But the issues always crept back in.
What I didn’t realize at the time was that I was still thinking like a conventional practitioner—just using natural remedies. I was treating symptoms with a “this for that” mindset. Itchy skin? Try quercetin. Loose stool? Toss in some clay. But I wasn’t asking the most important question: Why was this happening in the first place?
Over time, I learned to zoom out. To see my dog as a whole system. To support the terrain, not just suppress the symptoms. That’s what a holistic approach is all about: healing from the inside out.
Now, my approach is more thoughtful. I look at what’s happening under the surface—gut imbalances, inflammation, emotional stress, toxicity—and tailor support from there.
The general principle is to prioritize getting vitamins, minerals, and other essential compounds from a balanced diet of whole, unprocessed foods. This is the ideal approach for prevention and overall health maintenance.
However, supplements can play a valuable role when there are specific deficiencies or when a higher, therapeutic dose is needed for a particular condition.
Supplements should not replace a healthy diet and should ideally be used under the guidance of a veterinary or nutrition professional.
Quick Note:
These are general supplement categories I reach for often, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every dog is unique and your supplement choices should reflect that.
This list is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your vet or an integrative professional before starting a new supplement.
My Top 5 Go-To Supplement Categories for Dogs (Links and Resources at the End of the Post)
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These are the foundation of most of my protocols—for everything from inflammation and skin issues to cognition and joint health.
Why I Use Them:
Omega-3s are powerful anti-inflammatories that support the skin, coat, joints, immune system, and brain. They’re especially helpful for dogs with arthritis, allergies, or chronic inflammation.
Do I recommend them for every dog?
Yes, especially those on kibble or cooked diets. I often use fish or other marine sourced oil (from sustainable sources), green-lipped mussel, or whole food options like sardines. While there are great plant-based omega-3s, dogs don’t convert them into the more bioavailable forms as efficiently as fish oil provides, they can still offer some benefits when used thoughtfully. Using them on an occasional rotation, rather than the primary source is my preference.
One thing to keep in mind:
Not all fish oils are created equal. Cheap or oxidized oils can actually be harmful. I always look for clean sourcing, third-party testing, and the right EPA/DHA ratios.
2. Probiotics (and Gut Support)
This one gets a lot of attention—and for good reason. But it’s not as straightforward as many think.
Why I Use Them:
Gut health is central to overall health. In some dogs, targeted probiotics or gut-repairing supplements (like slippery elm, marshmallow root, or colostrum) can be helpful during or after illness, antibiotic use, or digestive upset.
Do I use them for every dog?
Not anymore. These days, I approach probiotics on a case-by-case basis.
Many conventional and holistic vets still recommend probiotics across the board. But experts like Dr. Odette Suter have raised valid concerns:
"Probiotics in supplements are not the same microbes as the ones found in the GI tract. They are also only transiently present... claims are generally marketing tactics."
– Dr. Odette Suter, DVM, Gut Health 101 for Pets
In dogs with leaky gut or dysbiosis, some probiotics may actually aggravate symptoms. I focus more on nourishing the gut terrain, feeding the beneficial microbes with prebiotic fibers and a species-appropriate diet, so balance can return naturally.
3. Joint Support
This is one category I wish more people started before signs of aging or stiffness appear. Joint health isn’t just a concern for senior dogs or large breeds. Many smaller or younger dogs benefit from early support too—especially if they’re active or have a genetic predisposition to joint issues. Prevention is everything.
Why I Use Them:
Joint supplements like glucosamine, MSM, green-lipped mussel, collagen, and turmeric help maintain cartilage, reduce inflammation, and support joint lubrication and long-term mobility. These can be incredibly helpful for managing and preventing arthritis and stiffness.
But one of the most impactful additions I’ve seen in recent years is CBD, especially when combined with CBDA.
Why CBD (and CBDA) Deserve a Spot in Your Joint Support Toolkit:
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation, modulate pain, and support overall balance. Research—like the Cornell University study—shows it can significantly improve comfort and mobility in dogs with arthritis, even at relatively low doses (2 mg/kg twice daily).
CBDA, the raw precursor to CBD, adds even more value:
It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory, shown to work on COX-2 enzymes, similar to how NSAIDs like carprofen do.
It supports pain relief through additional pathways, making it a potentially more effective option for some dogs.
When used together, CBDA can enhance the absorption of CBD, boosting its therapeutic effects.
For dogs with chronic joint issues or early signs of arthritis, a full-spectrum supplement that includes both CBD and CBDA may provide deeper relief than either alone.
Do I use them for every dog?
Not always, but many dogs, especially large breeds, athletic pups, or seniors, benefit greatly. Even small breeds can develop joint issues with age or after injury.
What I prefer:
Whole food sources when possible (like bone broth or green-lipped mussel powder), with isolated compounds added only when needed.
4. Immune and Detox Support
From chronic allergies and recurring skin flares to cancer and autoimmunity, I often support the immune and detox systems alongside a tailored nutrition plan.
Why I Use Them:
The immune system is intricately connected to the gut, liver, and lymphatic pathways. When those systems are under stress—due to inflammation, toxin exposure, or gut dysbiosis—the body has a harder time maintaining balance. This is where gentle but powerful support can help.
Some of my go-to options include:
Medicinal mushrooms (like reishi, turkey tail, or chaga) for modulating immune response
Liver-supportive herbs such as milk thistle and dandelion
Antioxidants like turmeric, vitamin C, or CoQ10
Humic and fulvic acids – These naturally occurring compounds support detoxification by binding to toxins and heavy metals, while also helping with nutrient absorption and immune balance. I often use them in cases of chronic gut issues, environmental exposure, or after medication use.
Is this for every dog?
No, I use this support more selectively—often in dogs with a history of:
Vaccine reactions
Chronic yeast or bacterial infections
Skin issues or chronic ear infections
Cancer, immune dysregulation, or toxin exposure
A quick note:
When supporting the immune system, more is not always better. Some immune supplements can overstimulate an already overactive system. The goal isn’t to “boost” the immune system blindly, but to bring it back into a state of regulation and resilience.
5. Calming and Emotional Support
Often overlooked—but so needed.
Why I Use Them:
Many behavior issues, stress-related illnesses, and even digestive problems have an emotional root. I use calming herbs, homeopathy, flower essences, or energy work when emotional balance is needed.
Do I recommend them for every dog?
Not all the time, but they’re one of my favorite tools for nervous dogs, rescue pups, or those in high-stress environments.
Support options include:
Herbal tinctures (like chamomile or valerian root)
Flower essences
Essential Oils
L-theanine or magnesium
Energy healing or calming touch techniques
Final Thoughts
Supplements aren’t magic bullets—but when used intentionally, they can be powerful tools to help your dog feel better, heal faster, and live longer.
Remember, it’s not about “what can I give instead of Apoquel or Rimadyl”—it’s about asking why the body is out of balance in the first place. That’s the power of a root-cause, holistic approach.
Thank you so much for reading this post ! Please let me know what you think.
My Dog Supplement Resource Guide
Trusted Picks by Category
If you're wondering where to start, here are some of my go-to products I trust with my own clients and pets. As always, these are general suggestions and not a substitute for personalized guidance.
Below are products I personally use or recommend in my practice. A few include affiliate links, if you choose to purchase through them, it helps support my work at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Dr. Ruth Roberts - Omega Paws: Clean, high-quality fish oil with tested EPA/DHA levels.
Dr. Peter Dobias - Feel Good Omega: Calamari Oil is a great alternative option for pups with sensitivities to fish oil and always great to have variety of sources in the rotation.
2. Probiotics (Case-by-Case)
Adored Beast - Fido’s Flora: Multi-strain probiotic I use in specific cases (post-antibiotic, gut dysbiosis, etc.).
Bonus Tip: I often prefer adding in fermented whole foods like raw goat milk or kefir.
3. Joint Support
Joint Blend – ArthriPaws: Includes glucosamine, MSM, and green-lipped mussel.
Earth Buddy - CBD + CBDa Oil: Full-spectrum formula with both cannabinoids for inflammation + pain.
4. Immune & Detox Support
Earth Buddy - Mushroom Tincture Formula: Immune modulating, not overstimulating.
Liver Support – Link: Milk thistle + dandelion blend.
BEAM Minerals - Humic/Fulvic Acid: Gentle detox for gut and immune support.
5. Calming & Emotional Support
Earth Buddy - CBD/CBDn Blend: For dogs dealing with chronic anxiety, reactivity, or stress-related behaviors. Full-spectrum blends are my go-to.
Flower Essences – Australian Bush Flower or Bach Remedies: Gentle energetic support for emotional balance (great for rescues or transitions).
Essential Oils – doTerra: Save 25% with this link. Consider oils like lavender, chamomile, or cobaiba. Make sure to dilute or diffuse appropriately.
Earth Buddy - Calming Chews: A great “entry-level” option for situational anxiety like vet visits or fireworks.
I always remind clients: true calming support isn't about "zoning them out," it's about helping dogs feel safe, grounded, and regulated from the inside out.
📌 Final Note:
Always consult a professional when adding new supplements, especially if your dog has chronic conditions or is on medication. The goal is support, not overload.
My name is Melissa, and I’m an animal communicator, energy healer, and holistic pet health coach. I weave together a variety of gentle, natural modalities to support animals and their humans including Reiki, EFT/Tapping, chakra balancing, muscle testing, tuning fork fascia release, canine herbalism, and both feline and canine nutrition. I'm also currently studying clinical animal iridology to further expand the holistic lens I bring to this work.
I live on a little farm sanctuary where I'm happily outnumbered by animals—seven dogs, three cats, and a mix of other furry, feathered, and hooved friends who keep life interesting. My approach is heart-centered and intuitive, combining ancient practices and modern knowledge to help bring balance, comfort, and clarity to our four-legged companions.
Thank you for taking the time to explore ways to enhance the quality of life for your furry companions. I hope my tips and recommendations prove invaluable to both you and your beloved pets. For more information and to discover how I can assist you further, please visit my website at calmingcreek.com.
I'd love to hear from you! Whether you have stories to share or questions to ask, don't hesitate to join the conversation in the comments section below.
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. I am not a veterinarian, and my services are intended as a complementary practice to support your pet’s overall well-being. They are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian regarding any medical concerns, conditions, or treatments your pet may require.