What vitamins do dogs really need?

Today on the Total Pets blog, we’re taking a deep dive into the world of dog vitamins - Which vitamins does your dog need? What are the benefits of vitamins for dogs? And why is it important to ensure your dog is getting plenty of these vitamins? Read on to find out more.

With the right vitamins, you can help ensure your dog’s body remains healthy and balanced, and is able to grow, defend and repair itself in the right way. As with us humans, it’s important to take the correct amount of vitamins and beware of overdosing your dog. We remind you to consult your vet if you are unsure, and always check the label on supplements.

Did you know?

Vitamins can belong to one of two different groups: water-soluble vitamins and fat soluble vitamins. Each type functions differently


As the name suggests, water-soluble vitamins live in the body’s water, and fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the fat. Each has a different role to play in bodily functions.


Water-soluble vitamins
Vitamins C and B-complex are water-soluble vitamins that only stay in the body short-term, as they’re constantly being flushed out. Whilst B-complex vitamins should regularly be replenished for this reason, vitamin C is produced naturally by your dog and does not need to be topped up unless prescribed by your vet.

  • Vitamin B-complex includes the following vitamins:
  • Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
  • Vitamin B3 (niacin)
  • Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)
  • Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
  • Vitamin B7 (biotin)
  • Vitamin B9 (folic acid or folate)
  • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)

Each of the B vitamins have their own benefits to your dog’s health, despite their similar goal of keeping your canine’s systems in check. For example, vitamin B1 supports the healthy function of your dog’s metabolism and ability to break down carbohydrates and the smooth transmission of nerve impulses. Vitamin B3 promotes healthy skin and assists in hormone secretion, which in turn leads to benefits such as good stress coping mechanisms, optimal kidney function and regular growth. Vitamin B6 controls the blood flow and bladder health.

Why does your dog need vitamin B?

Vitamin B-complex has many different benefits. Without it, your dog could become more susceptible to problems like anxiety, bad oral health, dry skin, fatigue, allergies and fleas, and more. Some of the major benefits include:

  • Provides energy to the body by improving metabolism
  • Supports healthy brain function
  • Forms blood cells and nerves
  • Prevents infections by strengthening the immune system
  • Helps keep away fleas and ticks
  • Maintains cell health
  • Keeps skin and hair healthy

Some foods such as whole grains, beans, kidney and milk are rich in vitamin B and safe for dogs, but even these diets can fall short of providing enough - that’s where the supplements come in. Discover the Total Pets range today.

Fat-soluble vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins are taken in from the food your dog eats, absorbed from other fats and stored in the body’s fatty tissue and liver. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, these can stay in the system for a long time, being stored as a backup for later use. It’s therefore important not to allow too much build-up of these vitamins, as it could lead to ill health. Always check the correct dosage before giving your pup any supplements.

Fat-soluble vitamins include:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin E
  • Vitamin K

Vitamin A

  • Promotes a healthy, shiny coat and clear skin
  • Is essential for normal vision
  • Supports growth and development
  • Keeps cell growth healthy and maintains organ functions
  • Strengthens the immune system

Vitamin C

  • Fights free radicals to support the whole body with growth and repair
  • Boosts the immune system
  • Helps heal wounds
  • Maintains regular growth and development

Vitamin D

  • Regulates the balance and retention of essential minerals
  • Aids with development
  • Keeps teeth, bones and muscles strong

Vitamin E

  • Supports your dog’s ability to counteract free radicals, fighting oxidative stress
  • Helps with cell function
  • Keeps the immune system running smoothly and prevents blood clots
  • Boosts fat metabolism


Vitamin K

  • Maintains normal blood clotting activation
  • Keeps bones healthy and strong



Why is it important to ensure your dog is getting plenty of these vitamins?
If your dog is eating a healthy diet, they may not need any of the above vitamins as supplements. However, various circumstances and conditions can mean their natural intake is reduced, in which case supplementing key vitamins can play a major role in maintaining their general health. For all the benefits listed above, we recommend our Total Pets vitamin-enhanced products, to keep your doggo happy and healthy.

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