Ever since, I always make sure my dogs’ needs and gifts are in the top priority. I start shopping for their gifts and treats as early as 1st week of November to avoid disappointment. This year is no otherwise.

Let’s start things off with offers from now to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and gradually leading up to Christmas.

OnlyNaturalPet: 3 Days Sale

Just received ONP last minute information so I thought I casually mention their 3 Days Only Sale (now to Nov 22nd) – 15% on all ONP products if you can catch the deal. They have quite a big range of house brand products that you can find it here (best sellers) and here (sale items). Two worthy mentioned products are ONP Pure Salmon Oil and ONP Super Daily Canine Multi-Vitamin.

All the discounted prices are listed as it is, no coupon code needed.

PetNutritionProducts: Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deal

Not exactly something most of us pet parents would get for our companions this Christmas, but it never hurts to get some essentials stock up. And since PNP offers a special Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal—10% site wide in addition to their many existing discounted items, all the more reasons to shop at PNP. Some worthy essentials are:

• Brewers Yeast supplement ($7.39, 1000 chewables). Read my earlier articles on the importance of supplementing our dogs here.
• Natural Balance Dog Food Roll trial size beef or lamb ($24.69, 36 x 2.75 oz). Most commonly used as training treats, but it need not be for this holiday season especially training lessons will be minimized or postponed.
• Oatmeal Shampoo ($3.69, 16oz or $8.34, 48oz). Need I say more why you should shampoo your dog preferably before in-laws come over for Thanksgiving?

While you at it , don’t forget to throw Dental Breath Mints ($3.70, 40 tables) into the cart before check out. You don’t want your guests be turned off by your dog’s breath when he greets them at the door!

All prices mentioned above are before the 10% discount. This offers is valid from Nov 27th to Nov 30th. No coupon code needed.

PetCareRX: Now to Cyber Monday

One of the most affordable pet pharmacy (prescription and non-prescription) store online. Some of their worthy mention are Advantage Flea Killer and Frontline Plus which can be found here. They have different offers on different days but the best offers would be Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

• Nov 23rd – 26th: 15% off orders over $50
• Nov 27th (Black Friday): 25% off ALL orders!
• Nov 28th – 29th: $10 off orders of $35 or more
• Nov 30th (Cyber Monday): 25% off ALL orders!

In addition to the above offers, you’ll receive free shipping on orders over $35.

Being the holiday season, I will be posting more special dog supply deals in 3 or more segments, so keep your eyes peeled. Also, don’t forget to check out my pet coupon and exclusive coupon pages for more updates.

I could further explain my points but you’ll get the most benefit by reading these articles (including critiques on industry propaganda) here. As you weave through their 100 over articles you will notice one core principle, that’s Wysong makes no claim of any kind (despite many mass marketed pet food companies firmly making such a claim) indicating theirs is a 100% complete diet. To further illustrate, here’s an excerpt from one of Wysong’s lits on feeding ideas for our pets in obtaining optimal health.

• Begin today giving your pet fresh foods in variety. Introduce small amounts of meat chunks, organ meats, raw bones, cheese, yogurt, grated veggies and fruits…the possibilities are endless and very exciting for your pet. (Every nutrient in the universe does not have to be in every meal.) Healthy table scrapes are fine too provided they are not scraps from junk food. (More complete details are found in Dr. Wysong’s popular book, The Truth About Pet Foods.)
• As an alternative and for variety you can purchase frozen foods and dried non-thermally processed foods. Wysong Archetype is a good choice.
• Canned and dried processed foods can be rotated into the diet. Choose products based on the credibility and motives of the company since every manner of misleading claim can be made.
• Supplement heat-processed foods with appropriately designed products that add life back to the food. Fresh and raw foods can be also benefit from the appropriately designed supplements. Wysong Biotics (AddLife, C-Biotic, Biotic pH+, Biotic pH-) are a good choice.
• Give your pet fun exercise, pure water, fresh air and sun every day plus big doses of that most important of all life ingredients…love.

I do not know of any other pet food company would not to promote their line of products given such opportunity. Clearly, you can see Wysong is in the business for healthy reasons—very well excogitate philosophy, not just mere profit gains considering how lucrative the pet industry is.

Wysong Dog Introductory Pack

When Wysong stated that they would send samples of their products and information to their affiliates, I gladly grab the opportunity. Never did I expect to receive such a generous sample pack—Dog Introductory Pack. Keep in mind, I’m not under any obligation to write positive review, or any review for that matter, if their products don’t warren one. I chose to write because I personally try them on my dogs, even tasted a few meals myself, and saw the many health benefits my dogs gain from eating the foods and supplements.

A brief introductory for those who are new to Wysong pet products: Wysong dog foods are not meant to be fed as a singular source of nutrition, they are meant to be rotated, not just in favor but in different types—dry food for example, rotating Maintenance with Senior, Synorgon, Anergen or even rotating Growth with Senior, Vegan and so on—as well as canned food and Archetype range. But since this review is on the introductory pack I would only review what it contains. Without further ado, here’s my review:

• Retail Price: $17.99
• Shipping cost: $9.99
• Coupon Code: SMALLDOG18
• Price after 18% off: $14.75

Wysong Dog Introductory Pack Contains:

4 lb. bag of Maintenance ($7.59): It’s a base kibble for adult dogs. Main ingredient is chicken. Unlike other brand kibbles, Wysong’s kibbles are rather small, approximately 0.6cm in diameter. I tasted many brands of kibbles before (seriously!) and rarely do I find one (maybe a couple competitive brands) that is as yummy as Wsyong’s. The smell is pleasantly piquant on its own, and when I slightly streamed the kibbles, it made it even more inviting. My dogs are moderate finicky eaters, they usually don’t ask for second servings but for Wysong’s, they do; unfortunately their requests are turn down! What I like most about feeding Wysong’s kibbles to my dogs is their “end result”—my dogs’ feces—they’re nicely formed, are neither too hard nor too soft, and most importantly, they don’t have funky smell. When my dogs eat well, poop well, I’m a very happy mom!
1 Small Bag of Dream Treats TNT ($2.89): These treats are 99% meat base. Although it’s meant to be given as treats, I personally find it a little bit too indulgence; reason being that it’s a rather big treat (1¾” in diameter and ½” thick) to be given to small dogs. I could spread over a few days, still it’s a bit cumbersome to break into small pieces; not to mention it’s a hard “biscuit.” Whatever I could break into bite-sizes, I gave as treats, the crumbs I use as supplement toppings.
2 Single Dream Treats TNT ($1.38/0.69ea.): If you would to rate base on appearance like many other dog treats in the market, Dream Treats will probably rank the lowest. But if you to base on the nutritional values, it’s rather unbeatable. Just looking at the ingredients used, it’s as good as any supplement for pets. Dream Treats comes in 3 sizes (single, small, and large) and three different favors (chicken, beef, and pheasant); the pheasant is the yummiest.
2 Pouches of UnCanny TNT ($4.18/2.09ea.): Part of the reasons I don’t go full-fledged on BARF because of its lack of accessibility, storage space required, and cost. But with UnCanny, it’s different. UnCanny is basically a canned food without the can and without the heat processing. Similar to any instant meal, but contains all the critical food components (prebiotics, probiotics, enzymes, omega-3, vitamins, and minerals) needed for your dog, just tear open and add water (may be warm but not above 118°F).  Although it states that one packet is a meal for one small dog, I find it a little too much for my Maltese and Silky. So the remaining I use as toppings for the following meal. Not surprising, both my dogs and I love the Seafood and the Beef & Egg. This is probably my one of my favorites, it’s very economical and will be ordering in cartons…for my dogs, of course!
1 Au Jus Turkey 5.5 oz can ($1.79): 95% meat, 5% organ diet. It comes in 6 flavors: beef, chicken, rabbit, duck, venison, and turkey. As you can see from the image, it doesn’t contain too much water which it is good. Many other brands of canned dog food are loaded with so much water or curvy that leaves little room for real meat. Can you imagine how shortchanged we are when we pay for the liquid instead of meat?

Although the total value added is $0.16 less than the actually amount you’d paid for (assuming you didn’t use my coupon code), however, you are more than compensated by their free samples and an copy of CD which is worth about $15.59 not including health and product literature. Except for the CD (The Master Key to Health) which is the actual retail price, the prices for the samples are derived from my calculation base on their retail price on ounce/milliliter basis—it’s just my guesstimate.

Free Samples and One CD:

1 Sample of Archetype TNT (3/4oz – $1.53): Archetype, unheated at any stage of production, is extreme concentrated (99+%) with meat protein (beef, chicken, livers, ground bone, etc.) and fresh, unadulterated “living” nutrients (organic quinoa sprouts, apples, wheat grass, dried kelp, collagen, proteoglycans, vitamins, chelated minerals, etc.). It’s hard to categorize Archetype because it can be used in many ways, as a singular meal, added mixture over regular meal, supplement, or treat. What I do is use the larger chunks as treats and the crumbles ones over the kibbles. What’s even more interesting is that Archetype can be fed in dry or soaked format, making it more versatile in preparing the meal. Because of its extreme palatability and super rich content, it’s idea for convalescing dogs who need a little weight gain or to restore appetite. For healthy dogs, I think it’s best to feed at least twice weekly which my dogs are currently on two-singular-meal per week.
1 Sample of DentaTreat (5ml – $0.48): A natural dentifrice which can be used to sprinkle over food, or be fed directly, or applied to the teeth. Since I have only 5ml of DentaTreat, I can’t test the effectiveness of it; however, I have to say it’s very tasty.
1 Sample of AddLife (10ml – $0.63): It’s a power supplement (contains whole, raw meat, and antioxidant properties of blueberries); its main function is to restore living food elements to any heat-processed dog food.
1 CD of The Master Key to Health (value of $12.95): An entertaining and thought-provoking relook at how health should be approached. Dr. Wysong wipes away all the modern assumptions on nutrition and health and with a clean slate logically rebuilds proper thinking. Duration: 52:25 minutes.

Free Health Information and Product Literature: Many of which can be found on their website.

• Rationale For Probiotics Supplementation: A 9-page article, pdf format at Wysong’s website
• Rationale For Enzyme Supplementation: A 8-page article, pdf format at Wysong’s website
• The Wysong Optimal Health Program – Wysong Prevent/Therapy Guide: A 2-page chart and diagram
• 22 Pet Food Fallacies: A 2-page article
• Does Your Pet Need a % of Something?: A 2-page article
• “I’m Confused”: A 2-page article
• How To Apologize To Your Pet: A small 25-page booklet, guide to using whole food for pets, recipes, and FAQs which can’t be found on their website
• Nutrition For Companion Animals: A 31-page product catalog
• Wysong Resource Book: A 31-page of human/animal product catalog
• Does American Owe An Apology To Its Pets?: A 6-page literature brochure

To say I’m a convert is an understatement. When I saw the improved health (especially my almost 16 years old Maltese, Zody), I couldn’t wait for my next order which I think it will be a huge one.

The only regret I have was not knowing about Wysong while I was exhibiting my show dogs. Sure, my dogs won a few championship titles during their prime years; but if they were on Wysong then I believe they could go much farther into their “senior” years.

You don’t have to believe what I’ve said or what you’ve read at Wysong’s website; what you could do is simply invest $14.75 and get your dog to verify the “claims”—by carefully watching and monitoring your dog’s health (coat, eyes, behavior, stool etc.). You already had invested a lot of money in dog food, supplements, and treats, so what’s another $14.75 for your dog to begin gaining great health.

If you are a fanatic on raw dog and cat food and want to save enough more bucks, I highly recommend Wsyong Raw Introductory Pack. Retail price is $47.99 (actual value $52.26{food} + $27.90: {Lits}) but with my 18% off coupon code you pay only $39.35.

Now that we have got the fundamental requirements and rules iron out, the next thing is getting you to the presentation and preparation of your dog’s meal.

Basic Rules To Feeding and Cooking For Your Finicky Dog

Meat to Kibbles Ratio: How much meat should be added to the kibbles depends how picky your dog is. You could start with 1/4 to 3/4 ratio and slowly work the way up to 1/3 of meat to 2/3 of kibbles when your dog doesn’t buy into your scheme anymore, however, avoid going up to the 50:50 ratio. If you really must, do it very sparingly. Once you start giving in too often, sooner or later your dog wants nothing to do with kibbles. You either have to cook homemade meals daily or switch to BARF diet.

Pick One: Unless you have all the time in the world to create different recipe for your dog daily, then this advice may not be your fancy. Having said, I strongly advise you stick with one main meat. More varieties, more work for you, hence more finicky your dog will be. It’s a vicious cycle. As you see later in the following post, my main meat is either chicken or fish as they are easily accessible to me and very economical. So decide which main meat is the most comfortable budget for you to lavish your dog, but mostly important he must love it!

No More Than Three: Ideally, one meat and one vegetable! Dog don’t have exquisite palate like we have so avoid introducing too many meat and taste in one meal. Doing so will only result in more finicky behavior in turn jeopardizing your time and effort.

Keep It Fresh: If you have the time and effort, cook daily. If not, cook no more than two-day meals. Overnight foods lack freshness and aroma even when you heat them up well. Less fussy or not-at-all fussy dogs can gobble them up in no time but finicky dogs like their meals “fresh-out-of-the-oven.” The strong aroma that emitted during cooking tantalizes their appetite; as you know digestion begins from smell.

• Storage: This is very much personal preference but I shall say it anyway. I don’t fancy storing leftover in plastic ware (i.e. Tupperware); even if I let it cool completely before the transfer. If you decide to cook for two-day meal, please put the leftover in an aluminum or porcelain container and have it properly covered up before putting in the fridge. You don’t want other food smell travel into your dog’s food.
• Heating It Up: I donated my microwave almost four years ago, and I never regretted a moment of it.  Yes, it’s about personal preference again, however, for health and nutritional reasons, try using the old-fashion way of heating up—steam or reheat through pot.

Supplementation: If your dog loves his daily supplement (especially those tablets form) like he loves his treats, then this can be an easy remedy. Instead of giving him the tablet as it is, crash them and sprinkle onto the kibble-and-meat meal. I’ve written extensively on the importance of supplementing our dogs, here are some of them:

• Dog Supplements: The Importance of Giving Supplements To Our Dogs
• Dog Supplements: Fat-soluble Vitamins
• Dog Supplements: Water-soluble Vitamins
• Dog Supplements: Minerals – Macrominerals
• Dog Supplements: Minerals – Microminerals

This is a rather short post but what’s next is just as long as the first post of this series. The next post is where I revealed my secret ammunition to coaxing finicky dogs to eat their kibbles. Keep your eyes peeled!

TheUltimateGreenPet: If you are into green products, here are some great essentials to consider for your dog.

English Retreads Small Dog Collar in Blue & White Rhinestones is selling at $39.00.
The collar is made of rubber from reclaimed truck inner tubes, 100% vegan, and are available in any color you want—as long as it’s black! It comes in three sizes—small (13.5″ x W .75″), medium, and large. It is designed specifically for conscientious consumers and savvy fashionistas.

Earthbath. If I have to narrow down my choices of dog shampoo, Earthbath is one of my top 3. I can’t recommend highly enough on Earthbath grooming products, specifically their Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo is a must-have for my dogs. Most of the Earthbath shampoos are selling at $11.95 except for Oatmeal which is priced at $13.95. Overall, TheUltimateGreenStore are selling the Earthbath product line much cheaper than Amazon except for Oatmeal. At the time of writing this, Amazon is selling the Oatmeal & Aloe shampoo at $5.98. So catch this ridiculous price if you can, rarely such great deal come along.

NaturalVetBlends. Pretty new in the market, founded by a team of holistic veterinarians, so I have yet to test out their products. As far as support is concern, it’s quite efficient; they answered my queries within 36 hours. My only comment for now if they would list the quantity amount of each product (especially the chewables and wafers) somewhere on the page rather having to click on individual large image just to see the tiny print. Price wise, quite reasonable. Of course, you get better deal when you buy two as the third one is FREE. Here’s a thought, you might want to check if you could combine different item and get the third item of your choice for free (usually of the same price or lower). Currently, they have seven products, namely:

• Hip & Joint Chewables (75 tablets), $39.95 or Wafers (quantity unknown), $19.95.
• 2-in1 Shampoo (12 fl oz), $19.95.
• Sensitive Skin & Allergy Shampoo (12 fl oz), $19.95.
• Odour Eliminating Shampoo (12 fl oz), $19.95 (Pic left) Has got rave reviews, I might get one to try it out on my furry clients.
• Skin Coat & Joint Daily Dietary Supplement (8.45 fl.oz), $14.95.
• Ear Cleanser (3.78 fl oz); $14.95.

Just worked out a special deal with NaturalVetBlends, in addition to the 3 for the price of 2 deal there is a further 10% discount on all products (no minimum purchase required) . Code: SMALLDOGSPARADISE. (ain’t that obvious )

Stay tune for the second September’s pick. Meanwhile, please do remember to check out my pet coupon and exclusive coupon pages regularly for more discounts and deals.

OnlyNaturalPet is offering 10% off on all grooming products for the month of August. Code: GROOMING

Grooming Products:

PetzLife and Leba: If you’ve read my review on oral care dental cleaning products, without a double PetzLife and Leba (especially so due to its hefty price tag) are value for money. I stock these items up to a year supply, which is about 4 of each.

ONP Pure Salmon Oil: This is one excellent (one of the most effective and fastest result achieved thus far) fish oil supplement for dogs with skin and coat problems. Although it is stored in finest quality aluminum bottle with a safe epoxy coating that protects the purity of the oil inside, I personally don’t think you should stock this product up. At most, buy no more than thrice the amount your dog needs (no, I don’t mean overdosing!). Refrigerate the one that is in use. For small dogs, I suggest giving 1/3 of a tsp (1 pump) for a start. Slowing adjust to the suggested dose once your dog is accustomed to the smell (yes, it states odor-free but still…) and taste—it shouldn’t take long!

New Product:

Shoo!Tag Natural Pest Repellent: This is the latest flea and tick repellent gadget. One tag is to keep away fleas and one tag is to keep away ticks. Collar not included! Shoo!TAG utilizes the power of the bio-energetic field which surrounds all living things to create a frequency barrier which repels targeted pests for up to four months. Sale price is $27.49 (both tags).

Remedies, Food, and Gears

Prices on these items below seen on the site are already discounted. In additional you could get further 5% discount if this is your first order. Code: SS15

Newton Homeopathics: 10% off all remedies. There are 13 remedies aiding from nervousness & fear to asthma. Each costs $14.99 except for Thuja. Only five of them are worth buying base on their effectiveness. They are:

• NH Detoxifier
• NH Eye Care
• NH Cough – Asthma
• NH Thuja – Vaccinosis
• NH Diarrhea & Gas

Wellness Simple Solutions: 15% off on dog food. Created for dogs who thrive on a limited ingredient diet due to food allergies or intolerance. A Simple Solution to a difficult problem! Available in dry and canned foods. Comes in duck, venison, salmon, and lamb favors. Sizes for dry food are in 10.5lb and 26lb and their prices range from $24.29 to $59.89.

Natural Balance Dog Food: 15% off on new formula dog food—Sweet Potato & Chicken Dry and Allergy Formula Canned Dog Food. You’ve been a regular reader of mine, you surely know that Natural Balance is one of the five premium dog food I highly endorse and recommend. Sizes for the dry food are in 5lb, 15lb, and 28lb and prices range from $12.59 to $43.29. Canned (sweet potato and chicken favor) comes in 13oz. for $1.69 each or $18.89 for a case of 12 cans.

Ruff Wear Gear: 10% off on all Ruff Wear Gear. Items include dog gear, boots, coat, life jacket, backpack, leash and collar, bowl, toys, bed, and even first aid kit! These are designed for dogs who love outdoor activities. Be it summer or winter, dog boots is one gear your active dog can’t do without. Expires: Aug 31, 09.

Microminerals

Microminerals consist of copper, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc. Unlike macrominerals, dogs need only in extremely small amounts; 1 milligram per kilogram diet.

Copper: Some breeds, such as the Doberman, Cocker Spaniel, Westie, and Bedlington Terrier, may have an inherited copper-storage disease (build up in the liver) which lead to copper poisoning.

• Functions / Benefits: Necessary for iron transport and absorption. Functions in hemoglobin formation necessary for red blood cells. Important for normal connective tissue, collagen, and bone formation. Melanin production—development of pigment in hair. A constitute of many enzymes particularly those involved with protein synthesis—superoxide dismutase (SOD)—a powerful protector against free radical damage.
• Food Sources: Liver, meat, fish, beans, whole grains.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Very rare, mostly dogs get it from drinking water.
• Positive Interactions: Iron, zinc, cobalt
• Negative Interactions: Exhaust fumes, cadmium

Iodine: Promotes the function of the thyroid gland. A deficiency of iodine in your dog’s diet is not necessary the result of hypothyroidism—an underactive of the thyroid gland—a common hormonal imbalance that dogs suffer from.

• Functions / Benefits: Component of growth hormone—thyroxine. Helps to regulate metabolism and and promote growth.
• Food Sources: Fish, shellfish, kelp, iodized salt
• Deficiency Symptoms: Weight gain, weakness, hair loss, poor growth.

Iron: Critical component of hemoglobin (the oxygen carrying component of red blood cells) and myoglobin (the oxygen carrying component of muscle cells). Also an important component of certain enzymes required by the body to function normally.

• Functions / Benefits: Component of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Constituent of many enzymes.
• Food Sources: Liver, green leafy vegetables esp. spinach, pork, whole grains.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, fatigue or weakness, depression, loss of appetite, sensitivity to cold.
• Positive Interactions: Calcium, folic acid, phosphorus, vitamin E, B6, B12, C—helps increase absorption and fiber too.
• Negative Interactions: Excess protein, saturated fats.

Manganese: Manganese allows the body to make proper use of the protein and carbohydrate in the diet. Intake of vitamin C helps to absorb manganese better. On the other hand, excess zinc or copper consumption will interfere with manganese uptake.

• Functions / Benefits: Necessary for normal bone development and reproduction. A component of enzymes necessary for producing energy in the body. Important for the proper functioning of superoxide dismutase (SOD)—natural antioxidant. Component of connective tissue. Fat metabolism.
• Food Sources: Liver, kidney, lettuce, celery, oats, eggs, whole grains.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Joint pain, poor growth and coordination (sense of balance).
• Positive Interactions: Vitamins E, B1, C, K
• Negative Interactions: Antibiotics, calcium, phosphorus.

Selenium: Linked with vitamin E and can replace it to some degree. Although very little selenium is required by dogs, it’s nonetheless an essential component of an enzyme—glutathione peroxidase—acting as an antioxidant. Excellent supplement for dogs with cancer.

• Functions / Benefits: Antioxidant (with Vitamin E), protect cell membrane and internal structure, strengthen immune system, neutralize carcinogens.
• Food Sources: Tuna, organs (esp. beef liver), cereals, eggs, brown rice.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Cataracts, high blood pressure, frequent infections.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin E, A, C
• Negative Interactions: Excess zinc and copper.

Zinc: A component of over hundred enzymes in the body, particularly those linked with protein synthesis.  Although Zinc deficiency is rare, nevertheless it can occur if prolong consumption of poorly formulated dry dog food. Also, some northern breeds like Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies have an inherited zinc metabolism disorder where zinc absorption is poor.

• Functions / Benefits: Important for healthy skin (correct wound healing) and coat (helps hair shine). Healthy immune system. Controls hormones.
• Food Sources: Liver, fish, shellfish, lamb, egg yolks oats, whole wheat, green peas.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Frequent skin lesions; dull, dry, coarse coat; hair loss; weight loss due to poor sense of taste, smell, and loss of appetite.
• Positive Interactions: Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, C, and D—helps increase absorption.
• Negative Interactions: Competes for absorption with iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Trace Elements

Trace elements include chromium, cobalt, fluorine, molybdenum, nickel, silicon, sulphur, and vanadium. Similar to microminerals, the amount needed is super extremely small; probably 1 microgram per kilogram diet.

Important: Please do not attempt to supplement your dog’s diet with large amount of any single mineral. Doing so can result in detrimental consequences such as reducing the absorption of other minerals which may lead to deficiency in other minerals (see negative interactions). If a high dose of a single mineral is called for to “treat” certain aliment, use a wide range of vitamin and mineral supplement for dogs. This will help to preserve a proper balance by raising the nutritional levels of other nutrients as well.

Dog Supplements Recommendation:

To further explain why use a board spectrum of vitamin and mineral supplements is the best way to supplementing our dogs, here are some reliable supplements formulated for dogs my clients and I personally use: Take note on the ingredients listed.

• Wysong: C-Biotic (additional micronutrients, probiotics and enzymes) and AddLife (antioxidant). * Be sure to check out Wysong Introductory Pack ($17.99) which include a free sample of AddLife, Archetype, and DentalTreat.
• Only Natural Pet: Kelp Boost (digestion, allergic, joints) and Immune Strengthener.
• Vetionx: Dialonx (blood sugar control), Dermalonx (skin care), H2oionx (water nutrient)
• Flexpet: Flexpet with CM8 (arthritis and joint pain)

There are twelve minerals that are essential for dogs. They are grouped into two categories based on the amount required by the body—macrominerals and microminerals (in addition to 8 trace elements).

Macrominerals

Macrominerals consist of calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. These minerals are needed in large quantities; 10 grams per kilogram diet.

Calcium: Although calcium is the most important mineral for dogs but excess amount given to growing pups can cause calcium deficiency and lead to bone development problems.

• Functions / Benefits: Promotes healthy heart and nerves. Contracts muscles. Bone and teeth development and maintenance. Enzyme activation.
• Food Sources: Milk, eggs, cheese, green leafy vegetables, beans.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Serious skeletal problems i.e. joint pain, arthritis, and muscle cramps.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, C, D, phosphorus.
• Negative Interactions: Excess saturated fat in diet.

Chloride: Maintenance of osmotic pressure, acid-base and water balance. Lack of it will result in vomiting and a loss of gastric juices and with hypoadrenocorticism. Excess would result in dehydration and the body being too acid (acidosis).

• Functions / Benefits: Regulates the quantity of carbohydrates and protein that pass into the cell.
• Food Sources: Common salt
• Deficiency Symptoms: Rare

Magnesium: To get the benefit of magnesium absorption, avoid taking large amount of calcium such as diary products, proteins, fats, wheat bran, spinach.

• Functions / Benefits: Strengthens bones and teeth, promotes healthy muscles. Important for heart muscles and the nervous system. Energy metabolism. Enzymes activation.
• Food Sources: Wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, potato skin, beans, green peas,
• Deficiency Symptoms: Muscles spasms and weakness, constipation, hyperactivity, depression, lack of appetite, calcium deposited in soft tissue.
• Positive Interactions: B6, C, calcium, phosphorus.
• Negative Interactions: Excess iron.

Phosphorus: Requires correct calcium to phosphorus ratio. Without the correct amount of phosphorus in the diet, calcium cannot be used by the body, even if it is present in the right quantity.

• Functions / Benefits: Development and maintenance of bone and teeth. Energy utilization. Enzyme systems. Helps to maintain pH balance in the body.
• Food Sources: Found in almost all foods.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Very rare, but could include muscle weakness, rickets, otsetomalacia (bone softening)
• Positive Interactions: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, vitamins A and D.
• Negative Interactions: Excess iron

Potassium: Incorrect of potassium to sodium ratio can result in low blood pressure. Prolong use of laxatives or a series of diarrhea and/or vomiting can result in low potassium levels.

• Functions / Benefits: Key role in maintaining the normal function of the heart muscle. Critical function in the transmission of nerve signals and contraction of muscle fibers. Protein synthesis. Carbohydrate metabolism. Maintenance of osmotic pressure, acid-base and water balance.
• Food Sources: Pumpkin, cauliflower, cabbage, celery, brewer’s yeast, zucchini
• Deficiency Symptoms: Muscles weakness, irregular heartbeat. Build-up of lactic acid.
• Positive Interactions: Magnesium
• Negative Interactions: Excess salt intake and laxatives consumption.

Sodium: Excess intake of sodium can result in dehydration and lack of it can cause vomiting, kidney disease, diabetes, and hypoadrenocorticism.

• Functions / Benefits: Involves in the absorption of proteins and sugars. Maintenance of osmotic pressure, acid-base and water balance. Nerve and muscle action.
• Food Sources: Common salt, found in almost all foods.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Rare, but in extreme case it could include heat exhaustion, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, weight loss.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin D

Dog Supplements and Vitamins Recommendation

Common use of these macrominerals are usually found in joint and bone supplement such as:

• Flexpet: Flexpet with CM8 (arthritis and joint pain)
• Vetionx: ArthroIonX (arthritis and joint pain) , Dialonx (blood sugar control), Dermalonx (skin care), H2oionx (water nutrient)

And also a board spectrum of vitamin and mineral supplements such as:

• Wysong: C-Biotic (additional micronutrients, probiotics and enzymes) and AddLife (antioxidant). * Be sure to check out Wysong Introductory Pack ($17.99) which include a free sample of AddLife, Archetype, and DentalTreat.
• Only Natural Pet: Kelp Boost (digestion, allergic, joints) and Immune Strengthener.

If your dog’s meal is deficient in vitamin B complex, yeast-based tablets the safest supplement to give (see below recommended dog supplements).

Water-Soluble Vitamins for Dogs

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Susceptible to destruction in commercial foods. Raw fish (viscera-internal organ) and bracken (plant) contains an enzyme (thiaminase) that destroy thiamine. Avoid giving raw fish of any kind.

• Functions / Benefits: Important for carbohydrate metabolism, it converts glucose to energy. Required by muscles and nerves to function normally.
• Food Sources: Brewer’s yeast, egg yolk, green vegetables, lean meat, poultry, fish, cereal, liver.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Loss of appetite, poor reflexes, and neural disorder, energy production.
• Positive Interactions: B-complex, B12, Vitamin C

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Dogs on vegetarian diet may require this key vitamin supplements. Susceptible to destruction by light and irradiation.

• Functions / Benefits: Necessary for normal growth, hair coat and muscle development. Important for metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins. Healthy skin and coat, tissue repair, antibody and red blood cell formation
• Food Sources: Cereals, milk, eggs, leafy green vegetables, organ and lean meat.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Weakness of rear limbs, poor growth, vision problems, heart failure.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, B-complex, B1, B3 (niacin)

Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Mostly found in meat, dogs on vegetarian diet may require supplementation.

• Functions / Benefits: Energy (carbohydrate, fat, protein) metabolism. Required to make enzymes function properly. Healthy skin, nervous system, cell metabolism, oral and pharyngeal tissues.
• Food Sources: Eggs, liver, lean meat, fish, rice, potatoes
• Deficiency Symptoms: Weakness, skin rash, memory loss, irritability, weight loss, inflamed gums, cheeks and lips.
• Positive Interactions: B complex, B1, B2, B6, tryptophan

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Vitamin B5 is important in the synthesis of amino acids and fatty acids, and deficiency in this important vitamin is thought to contribute to stomach upsets (i.e. flatulence, diarrhea) and constipation in dogs.

• Functions / Benefits: Necessary for metabolism of proteins, fats, carbohydrates which helps to convert these substances into energy.
• Food Sources: Most vegetables and meat.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Hair loss, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal problems.
• Positive Interactions: Folic acid, biotin, B-complex

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Susceptible to destruction in commercial foods.

• Functions / Benefits: Amino acids metabolism. Growth.
• Food Sources: Meat, eggs, most vegetable
• Deficiency Symptoms: Numerous disorders such as anemia, nerve dysfunction, fatigue, irritability, gum disease.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin C, Vitamin B7/H (biotin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B3 (niacin), magnesium

Vitamin B7/H (Biotin): Raw eggs whites contain an enzyme that destroys biotin, raw yolks, however, are very rich in it. So feed only the yolk to your dog.

• Functions / Benefits: Promote healthy skin and coat, growth, circulatory system, metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats.
• Food Sources: Egg yolk, liver, kidneys, milk, leafy vegetables.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Poor coat, skin rash and sores
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, B2, B6, niacin

Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin): Necessary for red blood cell and white blood cell formation. Important for neurological functioning. Biotin involved in fatty acid and protein synthesis in the body. Helps ensure healthy skin and hair coat, growth, digestion and muscle function.

• Functions / Benefits: Development of red blood cells, growth, nervous system maintenance.
• Food Sources: Fish, lean meat, milk, organs—heart, liver, kidneys
• Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, weakness, fatigue, red-sore gum, nerve degeneration.
• Positive Interactions: Folic acid, A B1, B6, niacin, biotin, pantothenic acid

Choline: It’s required for cell membranes and neurotransmitters. It is present in many plant and animal materials and mammals are able to synthesize it within the body. It is required in larger quanitities than other vitamins.

• Functions / Benefits: Nerve transmission. Regulate liver and gallbladder. Cell membranes structure.
• Food Sources: Eggs, fish, wheatgerm, all organ meats
• Deficiency Symptoms: Growth problem, impaired liver and kidney function
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, B-complex, inositol, folic acid

Folic Acid: Necessary for the formation of red blood cells and white blood cells from the bone marrow.

• Functions / Benefits: Production red blood cells, tissue cells. Normal growth. Healthy intestinal tract.
• Food Sources: Leafy green vegetables, meat, yeast, fish
• Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia and increased likelihood of infection.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin C, B6, B12, niacin

Vitamin C: Urine acidifier, may help reduce bladder stones. Helps protect against cancer and other diseases. Susceptible to destruction in commercial food. Although dogs can manufacture Vitamin C on their own, but the amount that’s produced is insufficient to maintain good health especially living in a polluted environment today. It is highly recommended that dog under any of stress or given medication or with hepatic disease be supplemented with Vitamin C.

• Functions / Benefits: Bone formation, healthy teeth and gum, wound healing, immune system, capillary and mucosal integrity.
• Food Sources: Fresh citrus fruits, tomatoes, vegetables.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Weak bones, anemia, spongy and inflamed gum, dirty teeth, urinary tract infections, cystitis and limping in the front or rear legs (swollen joints—scurvy).
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, B6, pantothenic acid, zinc

Dog Supplements and Vitamins Recommendations

Vitamins C Supplements

• Halo VitaGlo Xtra-C Vitamin C
• Rosehip C Herbal Formula (contains Vitamin C and bioflavonoids)
• Wild Things (antioxidants, designed to provide dogs with nutritious whole non-heat processed vegetable foods and fruits that closely resemble what they might consume in the wild)

Vitamin B complex Supplements

• Only Natural Pet Brewer’s Yeast & Garlic
• Organic Pet Superfood Super Immunity (100% Certified organic, vegetarian, DNA certified, and grown in an FDA-registered biotech facility)
• Only Natural Pet Kelp Boost
• Canine Plus

Vitamins Are Classified By Solubility

Fat-soluble vitamins: They are Vitamin A, D, E, and K which are absorbed from the gut along with fat and stored in the body. A daily intake is not necessary as in doing so, over-supplementation, can have toxic effects on your dog which can make him very ill.

Water-soluble vitamins: They are Vitamin C and  B complex. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, these are not stored in the body in significant amount. Any excess will be filtered through the kidneys and excreted in urine four to eight hours after ingestion. For this reason, these vitamins must be replaced daily preferably in their meals.

Fat-soluble Vitamins

Vitamin A: It is stored in the fat cells in the liver. The first milk or colostrum is rich in Vitamin A and it is very important vitamin for growing puppies. Some dogs, i.e. Cocker Spaniels, have difficulties producing sufficient vitamin A which lead to oily skin problems.

• Functions / Benefits: Vital for vision, proper growth, reproductive functions, healthy skin and coat, resistance to infection, and mucous membranes lining the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
• Food Sources: Leafy green and yellow (carotene) vegetables, milk, egg yolk, liver, fish oils.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Stunt growth, depress in immune system which lead to respiratory and eye diseases, dry skin and itching.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamins B3 (Niacin), C, D, E, pantothenic acid, zinc.

Vitamin D: Dogs gain Vitamin D from their diet and can synthesize it by sunlight’s ultraviolet radiation in their skin.

• Functions / Benefits: Regulates calcium and phosphorous levels in blood and bone. Extremely important for bone and tooth development and formation. Important for nerve and muscle functions.
• Food Sources: Fish oils, egg yolk, dairy products, tuna.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Deficiency is rare, however, in excess is fairly common which can leads to calcium deposits in soft tissue and skeleton deformities.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin A, C, calcium, phosphorus.

Vitamin E: Potent antioxidant. Shown to prevent heart and neurological diseases. Vitamin E is highly susceptible to destruction in commercial foods.

• Functions / Benefits: Protects cell membrane and tissues. Protects the body against free radical damage. Helps prevent arthritis and diseases caused by free radical damages. Maintains circulatory system.
• Food Sources: Liver, meat, vegetable oil, leafy vegetables, grains, wheat germ.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Damaged organ tissue; ulcerated bowel, poor muscular and circulatory performance.
• Positive Interactions: Vitamin C, B12, manganese, selemium.

Vitamin K: Intestinal bacteria. Although supplementation is not necessary as it is produced in the dog’s body, however it is highly recommended in the diet for dogs underwent prolong antibiotic treatment.

• Functions / Benefits: It is needed for blood coagulation—clotting factors.
• Food Sources: Green leafy vegetables, egg yolk, kelp, yogurt.
• Deficiency Symptoms: Rare
• Positive Interactions: Not known

Dog Supplements (Fat-soluble Vitamins) Recommendations

• Canine Plus (tablet): A broad spectrum vitamin/mineral supplement which provides over 40 essential nutrients, including all of the fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), a complete stress B complex and Vitamin C.
• Only Natural Pet Kelp Boost (powder): Too many to be listed, nevertheless it contains over 65 essential trace minerals, vitamins and amino acids, along with flax seed, rich in natural Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids for supple skin and a soft, shiny coat.

Note: You will notice that these vitamins can be consumed on a daily basis (“contradicts” my above statement on over-supplementation and toxicity). Please keep in mind that the amount of fat-soluble vitamins contain is very minimal to do any damage at all if taken on daily basis but enough to be of benefit to obtain optimal health for your dog. So my advise is not to supplement your dog in addition with other food sources as I listed above.

Why Supplement Our Dog When…

They are fed a complete and balanced diet appropriate to their age, as most veterinary nutritionists would tell you likewise. This is true in most cases, however, for many adult and aging dogs especially those with clinical problems, some supplementation can be beneficial to ease those aliments.

Another factor, if your dog is very athletic or under a lot of physical stress (working dogs) it wouldn’t hurt to supplement your dog with chondroitin, glucosamine, vitamins C and E to strengthen cartilage (lubricate joint fluid) and lessen the injuries if any.

But most importantly, most commercial dog foods fall short of providing optimal nutrition due to several reasons:

• High temperature and long storage times required for processing deplete critical nutrients needed.
• Levels of free radicals appear to be rising in many animals which are used in conventional process.
• Unregulated “by-products,” low-quality protein sources, lower the bio-availability, or bottom-line nutritional usefulness, of the products.

Benefits of Giving Dog Supplements

Because dogs frequently lack key nutrients in their diet, the right supplement program can return their system to balance. Their natural defenses will work well only if they receive the proper diet, vitamins, and minerals required for ideal health. A balanced nutrition program is an important starting place before pursing additional therapeutic alternatives. A good daily multi-vitamin and mineral complex will ensure that your dog receives the additional supplementation the current diet may lack, as well as best prepare the immune system for dealing with common aliments.

We will look at several categories of supplements that can promote better health for your dogs:

• Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential to your pet’s growth and development and day-to-day life-support functions. Fat-soluble vitamins. Water-soluble vitamins.
• Minerals: Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are required for your dog’s bone growth, nervous system, muscular system, and ability to assimilate nutrients. Macrominerals. Microminerals.
• Enzymes: Enzymes are required to break down food into components that can be used for energy. They are also needed to enhance absorption of essential nutrients. Enzymes are normally present in raw foods, but can be destroyed by heat and processing.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are live “good bacteria” that take up residence inside your dog, fending off harmful bacteria and aiding digestion.

Each of these nutrients groups works synergistically with the others.

Can We Get Human Supplements To Dogs?

While dog require supplementation for optimal health, it is important to remember that animal physiology is very different from humans. This means it may not be appropriate nutritionally to give your dog a human multi-vitamin, for example.

Although dogs often take supplements and remedies with the same base as those of their human counterparts e.g. glucosamine, the proper dosage and delivery method (pull-apart capsule, chewable wafer) should not be indiscriminately means to meet the needs of your dog is to find a species-specific supplement or remedy from a trusted manufacturer who uses only human-grade ingredients.

Just Supplementing Our Dogs Isn’t Enough

Supplements can contribute to your dog’s overall health, vitality, and longevity but they are supplementary to a healthy lifestyle that should include regular veterinary checkups, a premium diet, plenty of exercise, stress reduction and prevention measures, and emotional support. Supplements are most effective when integrated into a holistic program of optimum health for your dog.

Final Note On Supplementing Your Dog

Most dog owners, in general, only supplement their dogs when “crisis” (vitamin or mineral deficiency) arises. Though this is better than not supplementing at all, nevertheless, you may not see any immediate result even the manufacturers claim otherwise. One obvious reason being that symptoms of a vitamin or mineral deficiency take months or even years to develop. By the time they are apparent, optimal immune function has been compromised and the dog’s body processes have begun to break down.

In order to resort his original health, it requires time for the supplements to take effect which many owners do not have the patience to see it through. My advice to you is to allow 30 to 45 days for the supplements to work at its best. If it fails to delivery what’s promised, move to the next.

Of course, the better advice I would give to any dog owners is to supplement their dogs before “crisis” strikes. Continuously taking optimal amounts of nutrients is more beneficial than suddenly reaching for a multi-vitamin supplement when your dog doesn’t feel well. Not only this will save you money and headaches in the long run, but your dog will enjoy many healthy and happy days than not.

Dog Multi-Vitamins and Mineral Complex Recommendations

• Super Daily Canine Multi-Vitamins
• Multi Essential Dog Vitamins
• H20-IonX (Water Nutrients)
• Wild Things (Antioxidants – Helps to prevent free radical damage)