Importance of Vitamins for Dogs

 Vitamins are organic substances that the body needs to grow naturally. Typically, they are required in dog food in minimal amounts, and vitamin deficiencies can cause many health problems. Vitamins and minerals are needed for many of the chemical reactions in your dog's body, such as building bones and keeping them strong.  It can be difficult to determine if a homemade meal is deficient in vitamins and minerals as clinical signs of a nutritional deficiency can take months or even several years to develop. 

Dog can get all the vitamins and minerals they need in balanced dog food, including: Vitamin A, D, E, K, B-complex vitamins, Calcium, Phosphorus, vitamin C. The most important vitamins that the dog’s body needs are:

The nutritional needs of a dog vary depending on the different stages of life. Adult dog, puppy, and senior dog all have different vitamin and mineral requirements depending on their life stage.  

Adequate nutrition for your puppy can significantly impact genetic potential, trainability and integration of your puppy into the human household. 


 Dogs more than one year of age are considered adults. Needs of working, racing or sporting dogs, may be dramatically increased during periods of training and competition. Adequate nutrition may also play a vital role in the prevention of injury and shortening rehabilitation and recovery times.


Most dogs over 7 years of age have reduced energy requirements, higher protein requirements and lower nutrient digestibility than younger dogs. Ageing dogs are susceptible to obesity and associated health risks including arthritis, diabetes and reduced immunity. 


the bitch’s nutritional requirements increase dramatically, similar to those of a working dog. Lactating dogs, pregnant females, and puppies have different vitamins and minerals requirements, and should have a diet higher in nutrients than adult dogs.