FAQ: Health for dogs

Pheromone products release a synthetic substance resembling the calming pheromone that a nursing dog gives off, and may help some dogs feel calmer, for example when moving house or being left alone. Research results are mixed and the effect varies. They do not solve serious behaviour problems.

Senior dogs are offered joint, omega-3, antioxidant and cognitive support supplements. They may help some dogs, but age-related changes often have treatable causes. Before starting supplements, it is worth having a senior health check at the vet.

Yes. Some supplements can strengthen or weaken the effect of medicines; fish oil, for example, can affect blood clotting. So if your dog takes medication or is due for surgery, always tell the vet which supplements you give.

They can. An excess of fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D is particularly dangerous because they build up in the body. So do not combine several supplements, do not exceed the amount on the label, and agree vitamin supplements with a vet.

The form is mostly about convenience: dogs often eat chews willingly, powders and oils mix easily into food, and tablets make it easier to give the exact amount on the label. Choose a form your dog accepts without stress, and check how much active ingredient it contains.

Mix powder or oil into a small portion of favourite wet food that the dog finishes completely, and only then give the rest of the meal. A tablet can be hidden in a special pill treat. If the label allows, increase the amount gradually so the dog gets used to the smell.

Keep supplements tightly closed in a dry, cool place as the label says; some oils and probiotics need refrigerating. Chewable supplements taste very good to dogs, so keep them out of reach — if a dog eats a whole pack, you may need to contact a vet.

A trustworthy supplement's label clearly shows the ingredients, the amount of active substances per serving, the maker, a batch number and the expiry date. Be wary of products promising to cure diseases or miracle results. If in doubt, show the ingredients to a vet.

No. Supplements are meant to complement the diet and support health, not to treat disease. Stopping prescribed medicines and replacing them with supplements can make an illness worse. If you want to use supplements alongside treatment, talk to the vet first.

For active dogs the most important thing is a suitable food that meets their energy needs, plus enough water. Some owners choose joint or omega-3 supplements, but a healthy dog does not strictly need them. If your dog competes or trains hard, it is worth discussing its diet with a vet.

Urinary tract supplements often contain cranberry extract or other substances that may help support urinary health. Evidence of their effectiveness is limited. If your dog urinates often, passes blood or strains, see a vet — supplements do not treat such problems.

Yes, chewable and treat-style supplements contain calories, so they are worth counting in the daily ration, especially for small dogs or dogs prone to weight gain. The calorie content is often on the label. Do not exceed the recommended amount, even if the dog begs for more.

A pregnant dog on a complete food suited to her condition usually does not need supplements, and some, such as calcium, can even do harm during this period. Discuss diet and any supplements during pregnancy and nursing with a vet.

The pack price alone tells you little: compare how many days a pack will last for your dog based on its weight and the amount on the label, and how much active substance is in one serving. On zoogidas.lt supplements can also be compared by price per kilogram or litre.

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a sulphur compound often added to joint supplements together with glucosamine and chondroitin. It is thought to help support joint comfort, but there is little research in dogs. The label gives the amount, and suitability is worth discussing with a vet.

Turmeric and its active compound curcumin are sometimes added to dog supplements, but there is little evidence of their effect in dogs, and curcumin is poorly absorbed from the gut. Turmeric can interact with some medicines, so ask a vet before giving it to your dog.

Collagen supplements contain the protein that skin, cartilage and tendons are made of, so they are marketed to support joints and coat. There is little research in dogs, and a healthy dog gets plenty of collagen from good food. Before choosing one, ask a vet whether it is needed.

Brewer's yeast contains B vitamins and protein, so it is often added to coat and skin supplements, and dogs usually find it tasty. It does not suit dogs allergic to yeast. A dog on a complete food usually does not need it.

Gently rinse a superficial wound with lukewarm clean water or saline, trim the hair around it so it does not fall in, and clean it with an antiseptic suitable for dogs. Do not let the dog lick the wound. If the wound is deep, bleeding, swelling or oozing pus, see a vet.

Antiseptic solutions or sprays made for animals are often used on dog wounds, and the simplest option is saline. Alcohol and hydrogen peroxide can damage tissue and slow healing. If you are not sure which product to keep in your kit, ask a vet.