Ensuring your dog’s optimal health often involves a balanced diet, but it’s easy to get caught up in the world of supplements, aiming for the very best. While a well-rounded diet is fundamental for a robust immune system, the effectiveness of additional supplements can be nuanced.
“Nutrition is vital for optimal immune function. Proteins, fats, and many vitamins and minerals are necessary for immune cells and molecules. Most pet foods are formulated to have more than adequate amounts of nutrients for normal immune function,” states Dr. John Loftus, an assistant professor specializing in small animal medicine and nutrition at the Department of Clinical Sciences.
However, there are specific circumstances where supplementing a dog’s diet may offer immune support. “Your pet’s primary veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist can provide recommendations for an individual pet. Some nutrients that play important roles in the immune system, like vitamin D, can be supplemented in excess, so I don’t recommend supplementing additional vitamins or minerals without checking with a vet,” advises Dr. Loftus.
The Gut-Immune Connection
A significant factor in immune health revolves around your dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The entire lining of the GI tract acts as a barrier, preventing pathogenic bacteria from entering your dog’s bloodstream and organs. It’s estimated that a remarkable 70-90% of the immune system resides in the gut. The strategic use of probiotics can significantly aid dogs with compromised immune systems, with some veterinarians recommending their routine administration.
Probiotics work by increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids in the gut, such as lactic acid and acetic acid. These fatty acids are instrumental in inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. They may also introduce beneficial bacteria cultures, thereby enhancing the population of “good bacteria” and preventing the overgrowth of “bad bacteria.” This intricate balance shapes what is known as the “gut microbiome.”
Given their safety profile, probiotics are among the most frequently recommended supplements. They can be beneficial for dogs experiencing temporary diarrhea, helping them navigate stressful periods like moving to a new home, and providing support for dogs undergoing chemotherapy when their immune systems are weakened. It is crucial, however, to use canine-specific probiotics, as human formulations target different gut bacteria. Most veterinarians advocate for products containing a diverse range of beneficial bacteria rather than a single strain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Another Supportive Supplement
Another supplement considered generally safe and potentially beneficial for dogs with stressed or weakened immune systems is the addition of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is the common source for these fatty acids. It’s essential to ensure that the chosen products are free from heavy metal contamination. Adhering to the recommended dosage is important, as administering too much can lead to loose stools.
The Bottom Line: Diet and Quality Nutrition
Ultimately, supporting your dog’s immune health hinges on providing an appropriate, balanced, and complete diet. If you opt to prepare your dog’s meals at home, consulting a veterinary nutritionist for a well-formulated recipe is highly recommended. For dogs with immunocompromised conditions, avoiding raw diets is advisable due to the increased risk of bacterial exposure.
While incorporating some fresh food items into a commercial diet can be beneficial, adhere to the 10% rule: these “extras” should not constitute more than 10% of your dog’s total daily intake, to prevent disrupting their balanced diet.
Pro-immunity additions can include red bell peppers, various berries like strawberries and blueberries, spinach, carrots, and kale. Many dogs readily accept these as training treats, or they can be seamlessly added to their meals.
If you believe your dog requires immune support beyond these recommendations, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian.
You can also submit a consultation request to the Small Animal Clinical Nutrition Service, run by the Loftus Lab at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
This article has been reprinted with permission from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s DogWatch newsletter, published by Belvoir Media Group. When you become a member of the Riney Canine Health Center, you will receive a free subscription to DogWatch.
