When it comes to keeping your pup healthy, it can be hard to know where to start. Fortunately, there is a simple and natural solution: immune supplements. Immune supplements for dogs are becoming increasingly popular as a way to protect your pup’s health naturally, and for good reason.
Research has shown that immune supplements can have a significant impact on the overall health of your dog, aiding in the prevention of illnesses, reducing inflammation and supporting their immune system. In this article, we will explore the benefits of immune supplements for dogs, look at the evidence in their favor, and offer some advice on when and how to give your pup these supplements.
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Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Causes A Weak Immune System In Dogs?
Most dogs have a strong enough immune system to fight off most bacteria or viruses it comes across. But some dogs may have a weakened ability to fight those they come in contact with. A cause of this “weakened immune system” can include:
- A Poor Diet. Not having the proper nutrition that includes the necessary vitamins and minerals needed to build muscles, bones, and healthy cells can lead to difficulty fighting off infections.
- Congenital Conditions. Your dog may have been born with a disease that causes them to have a weakened immune system or an immune system that attacks itself (an autoimmune disease, like diabetes, lupus, or hypothyroidism).
- Virus Exposure. After being exposed to a virus, that virus could result in a weakening of your dog’s immune system.
How Do You Know If Your Dog Has A Weak Immune System?
Some symptoms to look out for that may indicate a weakened immune system in your dog can include:
- Lethargy.
- Diarrhea.
- Loss of appetite.
- Difficulty walking.
- Joint pain.
- Weakness.
- Skin infections.
- Respiratory infections.
- Delayed wound healing.
What Can I Give My Dog To Boost Their Immune System?
If you think your dog has a weakened immune system, there are a few things you can give them to help “boost” it.
- Diet. It is important to feed your dog a proper diet with the necessary vitamins and minerals they need to live a healthy life.
- Probiotics. These can help support healthy gut health in your dog, which is an important part of maintaining a strong immune system.
- Immune Supplements. Immune supplements can provide your dog with antioxidants to help protect their cells from free radicals that can lead to disease.
What Are The Best Immune Health Supplements For Dogs?
If you decide you want to give your dog immune supplements there are some things you may want to consider before purchasing.
Ingredients
Common ingredients included in immune supplements include:
- Antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body against cell damage that may lead to disease. Common antioxidants are Vitamin C, which can also help fight inflammation and Vitamin E, which can keep the heart, liver, and muscles healthy.
- Edible Mushroom Blend. According to a study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, “Mushrooms offer significant health benefits” including being antioxidants, help with heart health, are anti-inflammatories, and help fight viruses and bacteria. Some of these mushrooms include:
- Turkey Tail. This has been shown to have anti-cancer benefits due to the presence of PSK (polysaccharide K) in it.
- Reishi. Used to increase the immune system and is recommended for its anti-cancer properties.
- Shiitake. Contains nutrients to support a healthy immune system (vitamins D and B) and is also an antioxidant recommended for its anti-cancer properties.
- Maitake. An anti inflammatory that is also recommended for its anti-cancer benefits.
- Vitamin A. supports the immune response in dogs.
- Milk Thistle. An antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it has been used to treat liver diseases and can also support dogs with diabetes and pancreatitis.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids. This is an anti-inflammatory that supports the immune system and also promotes a healthy skin and coat, as well as helping relieve symptoms of arthritis.
NASC Approved
The National Animal Supplement Council provides a third party approval of the supplement, so you can be sure the product in the bottle is what it says it is. Look for the seal of approval on the package.
Dosage
Check the dosage of the product you are considering. It is usually based on your dog’s weight. You may find that you have to use a lot of the product, especially if you have a large dog, and it may not last as long as you think it will.
Veterinary Approval
Any time you are thinking of giving your dog a supplement, it is important to speak with your veterinarian first.
The supplement you want to give your dog may not benefit their condition.
An ingredient in the supplement you wish to give your dog may not benefit your dog or the concentrations may be too much, especially if you are giving your dog other supplements that may have similar ingredients.
Are There Any Side Effects To Giving My Dog Immune Supplements?
It is always possible for your dog to be unable to tolerate a supplement.
The most common side effect is an upset stomach, but if you notice any change in your dog’s behavior or appetite or if they become lethargic, contact your veterinarian right away.
Best Immune Boosting Supplements For Dogs
These are our top 5 selections of immune supplements for your pup. Product information is according to the manufacturer. Pros and cons are noted.
We have separated our selections into different forms of supplements so you can choose one that can be easily administered to your dog. Supplements that are NASC Certified are noted.
We also included a grain free option for those that need it.
Best Soft Chew Immune Supplement
Greenies Soft Chew Immune Supplement
These are soft treats made with a blend of antioxidants and are preservative free.
- Includes a blend of:
- Antioxidants.
- Vitamin C.
- Vitamin E.
- Made without fillers.
- No artificial flavors.
- Preservative free.
- Give up to 3 per day, depending on the dog’s weight.
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
- NASC Certified.
Pros/Cons:
- Very soft.
- Easy to eat.
- Can get stuck in teeth/mouth.
Check Price At: Chewy, Amazon, Petco
Best Chewable Tablet Immune Supplement
VetClassics CAS Options Extra Strength Immune & Antioxidant Support
This contains a blend of edible mushrooms in addition to several antioxidants.
- Also available as a soft chew.
- Contains various types of mushrooms to help support the immune system (Reishi, Shiitake, Turkey Tail, Maitake).
- Includes antioxidants:
- Coenzyme Q-10.
- Vitamin A.
- Vitamin E.
- Vitamin C.
- Milk Thistle.
- Administer up to 6 tablets per day, depending on your dog’s weight.
- Made in the USA.
- NASC Certified.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy to chew.
Best Liquid Immune Supplement
Zesty Paws Aller-Immune Flavor Infusions
This can be poured over your dog’s food and in addition to immune support, it also helps with skin and allergy symptoms.
- Comes in turkey or chicken flavor.
- Supports skin health and seasonal allergies.
- Contains EpiCor: a yeast fermentate with metabolites to boost the immune system.
- Includes salmon oil.
- Has quercetin, an antioxidant.
- The flavor is from apple cider vinegar, colostrum, astragalus root powder.
- Given as 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight.
- NASC Certified.
Pros/Cons:
- Dogs like the flavor.
- Produces a shiny coat.
- Helps some dogs with allergy symptoms.
- Smells bad.
Best Powder Immune Supplement
Nutramax Imuquin Powder Immune Health Support
This comes as individual packets that contain a blend of immune support, fish oil, vitamins and minerals.
- Comes in packets filled with powder.
- Includes:
- Beta Glucans (helps support the immune system).
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
- Vitamins.
- Minerals.
- Gives support during times of stress.
- Administer up to 2 packets a day, depending on your dog’s body weight, by sprinkling over their food.
Pros/Cons:
- Leaves coat looking shiny.
- Dogs seem to have more energy.
- Has a fishy smell.
Check Price At: Chewy, Amazon, Petco, Petsmart
Best Grain Free Immune Support
Dogswell Jerky Minis Immune System Grain Free
This grain free jerky treat contains antioxidants for immune support, as well as turmeric, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Grain free.
- No added sugar.
- No chicken by-products.
- By-product meal free.
- Contains no fillers.
- Gluten free.
- Corn free.
- Wheat free.
- Soy free.
- Includes Vitamins A and E to build up immune response.
- Contains turmeric.
- Made of European sourced duck.
- Give up to 4 treats per day, depending on your dog’s weight.
- Made in the USA.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy to chew.
- Dogs like the taste.
- Easy to break apart if needed.
A healthy, balanced diet and regular vet checkups are the best ways to ensure your dog’s immune system is supported. However, supplements can be beneficial as well. Immune supplements for dogs can help promote a stronger and healthier immune system, aiding in your dog’s natural defense against diseases.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.