Understanding what dog supplements are is key to ensuring your pet's health and wellbeing.

Simply put, dog supplements are products designed to be added to a dog's diet to provide additional nutrients, support specific bodily functions, or address particular health needs.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Nutrient Boost: Supplements often contain vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, or other nutrients that might be lacking or insufficient in a dog's regular diet.

Targeted Support: Many supplements are designed to support specific areas of a dog's health, such as:

• Joint health: Glucosamine, Chondroitin
• Digestive health: Probiotics, Prebiotics
• Skin and coat health: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
• Brain function: Antioxidants
• Immune system: Vitamins C and E

Supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet: Supplements are meant to complement a balanced diet, not replace it. A good-quality dog food should be the foundation of your dog's nutrition.

Vet Consultation: Importantly, supplements are not a substitute for veterinary care, and you should always talk to your vet before giving your dog any supplements. Your vet can help determine if your dog needs a supplement and which one is appropriate.

Dog-Specific: Only give your dog supplements that are specifically formulated for dogs. Human supplements can be harmful or even toxic to dogs.

In essence, dog supplements are dietary additions intended to enhance a dog's nutrition or support specific health needs, but they should always be used in consultation with a vet.

Our friendly Joii team are available online 24/7 for impartial expert advice.

That's a very important question, as giving the right vitamins is crucial for your dog's health. However, the answer isn't straightforward and it depends on your individual dog's specific needs and health status.

Here's what to keep in mind:

1. Feeding a balanced Diet is Key: If your dog is eating a high-quality, well-balanced diet, they likely get the necessary vitamins from their food. Supplements might not be needed in this case.
2. Vet Consultation is Essential: The best way to determine what vitamins, if any, your dog needs is to talk to your vet. They can assess your dog's overall health, dietary habits, age, breed, and any existing health concerns. This will help them determine if a vitamin supplement is necessary and which specific ones to choose.
3. Avoid Self-Selecting: It can be tempting to pick supplements ‘off the shelf’ or the internet, but giving your dog vitamins without knowing their specific needs can be harmful. Excessive vitamins can lead to imbalances or even toxicities, especially in puppies or senior dogs.
4. Human vs. Dog Vitamins: Never give your dog human vitamins. They are formulated for human nutritional needs and can be dangerous for dogs.
5. Specific Vitamins and Reasons: Your vet might recommend specific vitamins based on your dog's condition. For example:

• Vitamin E: May be beneficial for skin health and as an antioxidant.
• B Vitamins: Important for energy and nerve function.
• Vitamin A: Essential for vision, but too much can be toxic.

We offer multivitamins like YuCARE MultiVits for Senior Dogs and YuCARE MultiVits for Adult Dogs. These provide a blend of essential vitamins. However, even these are best discussed with your vet first.

In summary, while vitamins are essential for dogs, you shouldn’t give your dog any specific products without first consulting your veterinarian. Your vet can provide personalised recommendations and guidance to ensure your dog gets the appropriate nutrients without any risks.

Remember our Joii team is available 24/7 for advice.

This is a critical question and one that requires a very precise approach to ensure your dog's safety. Unlike simply deciding 'if' to give vitamins, this is about understanding the exact amount, which can make all the difference between helpful and harmful.

Here's why determining the right vitamin dosage is so vital and how to approach it:

Vitamins Aren't One-Size-Fits-All: The correct dosage of vitamins for a dog isn't generic. It's highly dependent on factors like:

• Weight: A tiny Chihuahua will need vastly different amounts compared to a Great Dane.
• Age: Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs.
• Health Status: Underlying conditions or pre-existing vitamin levels can significantly change what's appropriate.
• Diet: The existing vitamin content in your dog's food is a key factor. Over-supplementation on top of a fortified diet can be risky.

Dosage Is Crucial: Vitamin dosages aren't just about 'more is better.' In fact, giving too much of certain vitamins can lead to serious health problems.

• Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K): These are stored in the body, and excessive amounts can build up and become toxic.
• Water-Soluble Vitamins (B Vitamins, Vitamin C): Although less likely to cause immediate toxicity, excessive amounts can still cause issues, especially in dogs with pre-existing health problems.

How to Determine Dosage: Step-by-Step:

1. Do NOT Guess: Never try to estimate vitamin dosages yourself. Guesswork can be very dangerous.
2. Consult Your Vet: This is non-negotiable. Your veterinarian is the ONLY one who can provide the proper dosage based on your dog's individual needs and health history. They may advise blood tests to check vitamin levels and create a tailored plan.
3. Follow your  Vet’s Instructions Precisely: If your vet recommends supplements, they will provide very specific instructions on the exact dosage. Follow these instructions to the letter.
4. Be Wary of Product Labels Alone: While supplement labels provide general information, they cannot account for your dog's specific situation. Your vet's advice is more important tahn label instructions.
5. Monitor for Any Changes: Keep an eye on your dog for any changes in behaviour, appetite or health. If you notice anything unusual, contact your vet immediately.

Potential Risks of Incorrect Dosage:

• Toxicity
• Organ damage
• Digestive upset
• Bone and joint problems
• Neurological issues

In essence, 'How much' is just as important as 'What' when it comes to vitamins for your dog. It’s a question best answered by your vet. They’re the only ones equipped to tell you the specific amount, based on your dog’s situation. And will keep your furry friend safe

Remember, our Joii team is available 24/7 for general advice and support.

That's a tricky one to answer, since it very much depends on your dog’s health and circumstances and how you hope to support them.

As a general rule, always talk to your vet before starting any supplements. They can best assess your dog's individual needs. Secondly, always use supplements specifically formulated for dogs. Human ones may be at best ineffective and at worst harmful to your dog, but here are some examples of useful supplements that are frequently discussed and recommended by vets for various situations:

• For Joint Health: Supplements like YuMOVE are often recommended to support joint mobility and comfort, particularly in older dogs or those with joint conditions. They contain ingredients like Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Green Lipped Mussel.
• For Digestive Support: If your dog has digestive issues, your vet might suggest a supplement like Protexin Pro-Kolin or other probiotic options to help balance gut bacteria and restore a healthy gut biome.
• For Skin and Coat Health: Supplements containing Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, like Pooch and Mutt Salmon Oil or YuMOVE Skin and Coat, can help improve skin health and coat shine.
• For Cognitive Function: In older dogs experiencing cognitive decline, supplements like Aktivait that support brain function with antioxidants and nutrients may be beneficial.
• For Calming: If your dog experiences anxiety, your vet may discuss calming supplements like YuMOVE Calming Care or Zylkene, which use natural ingredients to promote relaxation.
• For General Health: Multivitamins like YuCARE MultiVits can offer broad nutritional support, especially for senior dogs or those with specific dietary needs.

Important Reminders:

• Even with these examples, it's crucial to consult with your vet before starting any supplement. They can determine if a supplement is truly needed and recommend the right dosage and product for your dog.
• Supplements are not a replacement for proper veterinary care. If your dog has a health issue, it's essential to seek professional veterinary advice.
• Joii Shop offers a range of these recommended supplements, but always make sure you follow your vet's advice on what's best for your dog.

In short, while there are various supplements available for different purposes. The key is to work closely with your vet to enable you to make the right choices for your dog’s specific needs.

It’s crucial to remember that a balanced, high-quality dog food should ideally provide everything your dog needs. Before adding any supplements, always talk to your vet. They can assess your dog’s specific needs and advise what, if anything, is required.

That said, here are some supplements that are often discussed, which your vet may suggest, based on individual circumstances:

• For Joint Support: Supplements like YuMOVE with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Green Lipped Mussel.
• For Digestive Health: Probiotics, such as Protexin Pro-Kolin, to support gut bacteria.
• For Skin and Coat: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid supplements like Pooch and Mutt Salmon Oil or YuMOVE Skin and Coat.
• For General Nutritional Support: Multivitamins like YuCARE MultiVits – but these should still be vet-approved.

The most important takeaway message? Don’t add anything to your dog's food without your vet's advice and approval. For your dogs well-being and safety, supplements should only be used when specifically recommended by a veterinary professional.

Supplements can have an important role to play in helping your dog feel more relaxed and calm during stressful events, like fireworks, thunder or car travel, but they still work best as part of a complete or holistic plan, that includes some environmental and behavioural support as well.

Let's discuss how to use Zylkene, Adaptil, and Yumove effectively:

• Zylkene: This natural milk protein derivative promotes relaxation. For short-term stress (fireworks night), start giving it 1-2 days beforehand. For chronic anxiety, it can be given long-term. Administer once daily, ideally at the same time each day, mixing it with food.
• Adaptil: The Adaptil range includes a synthetic pheromone that mimics a mother dog's scent, providing a sense of security. It comes as a diffuser, collar, or spray. For general anxiety, use the diffuser continuously. For travel or vet visits, spray a blanket or carrier 30 minutes before. A collar offers constant support.
• YuMOVE Calming Care: Contains ingredients like L-Tryptophan to support natural calming pathways. Start giving it a few days before a stressful event for optimal effect. It can also be used long-term. Administer daily, ideally with food.

Combining Supplements: It's generally safe to use Zylkene and Adaptil together. Discuss combining Yumove with others with your vet, as individual needs vary.

Management is Key!:

• Environmental: Create a safe, quiet space. Provide a den-like area with blankets and toys. During fireworks, close curtains, play white noise, and stay calm yourself.
• Behavioural: Use positive reinforcement training. Desensitize your dog to triggers gradually. For travel, start with short trips and reward calm behavior.

Timing is crucial: Start supplements a few days before known stressors for best effect. Consistency is important, especially for Zylkene and YuMOVE. Always monitor your dog’s response and consult your vet for personalized advice, especially before combining supplements or if anxiety is severe.

Remember our Joii team is here 24/7 to offer support and advice.

That's a great question! Owners want to ensure they're giving their dogs the best possible care. However, 'best' really depends on your individual dog's needs and health status. Here's some key considerations:

Balanced Diet First: Most dogs fed a high-quality, balanced diet should get all the nutrients they need from their food. Supplements aren't always necessary.

• Talk to a vet: The absolute best approach is a conversation with your vet. They can assess your dog's health, diet, age, breed, and any specific health concerns. This will help determine if supplements are needed at all, and if so, which ones would be appropriate. Self-selecting supplements could potentially do harm, especially for very young or senior dogs.
• Avoid Human Supplements: Never give your dog human vitamins or supplements. They are formulated for humans and can be toxic and cause serious health issues in dogs.
• Dog-Specific Supplements: If your vet recommends supplements, only choose those specifically formulated for dogs. Look for reputable brands and those that list their ingredients clearly.

We offer a range of supplements for various needs, such as joint health, digestion, skin conditions, and brain support. Some examples include:

• Joint Care: YuMOVE Range
• Digestion: Protexin Po Kolin
• Skin & Coat: YuMOVE Skin and Care, Poach and Mutt Salmon Oil
• Brain: Aktivait

These products are often recommended by vets to support specific health areas. However, even with these, it's crucial to discuss them with your vet first.

In summary, there isn't a single 'best' supplement for all dogs. The best approach involves consulting your vet to assess your dog's specific needs and then choosing high-quality, dog-specific supplements if recommended.

There’s a lot of confusing information circulated about vitamins for dogs in pregnancy. The key point is that If your pregnant dog is eating an appropriate diet, they don't need any additional vitamins or supplements. In fact, some may be actively harmful, leading to birth defects or stillbirths.However, it’s important to feed your pregnant dog a diet rich in omega3 fatty acids to help puppy development in the womb and milk production. 

As a general supplement before pregnancy, consider YuCARE MultiVits for a health boost. But always talk to your vet first. Ideally talk to your vet as soon as you know your dog is pregnant- even before if possible! Your vet will advise about your particular dog’s needs.