What are the differences between CBD for pets and CBD made for humans?

The differences are often small, but extremely important to note when choosing CBD for pets and humans. Human CBD often is flavored with ingredients that can be toxic to pets like xylitol and other sugars or sweeteners. All of our CBD oils for pets are completely natural and unflavored to ensure it is the purest botanical extract mixed with MCT Oil.

How long do CBD effects last in pets?

CBD for dogs and cats is a completely individualized pet supplement and every pet is different. Results may vary depending on your pet’s size, age, and predisposition. Remember that CBD for dogs and cats is a botanical extract, so it is ok to experiment with your pet’s CBD dosage to find the best results. With any pet supplement it is a good practice to start low and gradually increase on an as-needed basis.

How frequently should I give my cat or dog CBD?

Earth Buddy suggests for best results give your cat or dog CBD 1-2 times per day. When trying to manage stress, daily use leading up to triggering events is optimal in combination with administering CBD to your dog or cat 30 minutes prior to triggering event will allow for best results. This pet CBD dosage guideline will help to maintain calmness and contentment during travel, grooming, thunderstorms, fireworks, environmental changes, or motion sickness from car rides.

Are there any scientific studies supporting the use of CBD for pets?

CBD for dogs and cats research is constantly evolving and there are plenty of CBD studies on animals to refer to. While many studies suggest higher clinical dosage levels of CBD for pets, Earth Buddy provides full-spectrum CBD for dogs and cats that believes in the theory known as the “entourage effect”, meaning the entirety of the plant extract provides a synergistic effect even in small CBD doses for pets. The synergy of full-spectrum CBD with other cannabinoids and terpenes promotes a multiplying effect that often requires lower dosage of CBD for pets.

How do I choose the right CBD product for my pet?

Take our Product Recommendation Quiz for direction on products or feel free to contact us anytime!

Blog | Dogs

6 Essential Vitamins for Dogs

October 19, 2023

Written By: Earth Buddy Team

Earth Buddy mushroom capsules for dogs with raw lion’s mane mushroom, turkey tail mushrooms, and reishi mushrooms.

A well-balanced diet is one of the most important factors in supporting your dog’s physical and mental well-being. Similar to humans, dogs need a variety of essential vitamins to support their well-being. Let’s delve into the six essential vitamins that play a crucial role in your dog’s health.

Essential Vitamins For Dogs

Developing a balanced diet with essential vitamins and minerals is fundamental for maintaining physical and mental well-being. This balance is critical for supporting and promoting long-term health, including helping build and maintain bones and teeth, supporting normal brain and nerve function, assisting in the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients, and supporting a normal metabolic rate, among other benefits.

These benefits can be obtained through vitamin supplements, but whole foods are recommended when possible to obtain vitamins and minerals most effectively. The vitamins and minerals in whole foods are often more bioavailable, supporting digestion and absorption more effectively compared to those in supplements. This is because whole foods contain a natural mix of nutrients and compounds.

Vitamin A For Dogs For The Dog’s Body

Vitamin A, a critical nutrient for dogs, plays a multifaceted role in supporting normal bodily functions. Primarily known for maintaining and supporting normal visual function, it helps maintain ocular integrity and structure.

Beyond the eyes, vitamin A is instrumental in supporting the immune system and promoting the body’s innate resistance to pathogens. It also promotes healthy skin and a glossy coat, helping to maintain the normal moisture content of the skin. Furthermore, this vitamin is vital for supporting the needs of developing puppies and promoting muscle integrity and definition.

Foods Containing Vitamin A

Several foods that are safe for dogs contain ample amounts of vitamin A. When incorporating these into a dog’s diet, it is vital to ensure the portions are appropriate and balanced to maintain optimal health. Here are some dog food sources that are rich in vitamin A:

Liver: Liver from various animals is a very rich source of vitamin A. However, it should be offered in moderation due to its high vitamin content.

Eggs: Eggs are a wholesome and nutritious topper for dog food, containing Vitamin A alongside a variety of other essential nutrients.

Fish: Fish, particularly oily fish like salmon and trout, are excellent sources of vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids.

Carrots: Carrots are safe for dogs to eat and are a good source of vitamin A, fiber, and other nutrients.

Sweet potatoes: These are a superb source of Vitamin A and can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet when served in moderation and cooked properly.

Pumpkin: Pumpkin is another excellent source of vitamin A and fiber, making it beneficial for helping support proper digestion and bowel health.

Spinach: Spinach contains vitamin A and other vital nutrients, though it should be given in moderation due to its high oxalic acid content.

Kale: Kale is nutrient-dense and a good source of vitamins A, K, and C, along with other beneficial compounds.

Broccoli: Broccoli is safe for dogs in small quantities and is a source of Vitamin A, C, and other nutrients.

Peas: Peas contain Vitamin A, fiber, and other essential nutrients that can be beneficial to add to dog food.

Benefits of Vitamin B For Dogs

Vitamin B, actually a complex of several vitamins, offers many benefits to dogs, helping maintain physical and mental well-being. It plays a crucial role in helping support energy production at a cellular level by aiding in the conversion of food into energy.

B vitamins, such as B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin), each serve unique functions while collectively supporting a normal metabolic rate, normal brain and nerve function, and promoting a healthy coat and skin. They are essential in supporting a healthy red blood cell count, helping animals maintain a normal and relaxed disposition, and supporting normal heart and vasculature functioning.

Foods Containing Vitamin B For Dogs

Vitamin B is not a single vitamin but a complex of several vitamins that play a crucial role in helping maintain the general health of all ages and breeds. Here are some foods that are rich in various B vitamins and are safe for dogs:

Lean meats: Chicken, turkey, and lean cuts of pork and beef are excellent sources of various B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12.

Fish: Fish like salmon, trout, and sardines are rich in B vitamins, especially B12, niacin (B3), and riboflavin (B2). Place a piece in the dog food bowl for added nutrition.

Eggs: Eggs are a great source of B vitamins, particularly biotin (B7), riboflavin (B2), and pantothenic acid (B5).

Yogurt: Yogurt and cheese can provide dogs with B vitamins, notably B12, riboflavin (B2), and pantothenic acid (B5).

A Dog’s Body and Vitamin C

Vitamin C, known as ascorbic acid, holds a multitude of benefits for dogs. This potent antioxidant protects against free radical damage, thus supporting cellular health and promoting the body’s innate resistance to pathogens. Vitamin C is vital for supporting collagen and proteoglycans, a fundamental component of skin, blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bones, and supporting the structural integrity of joints and connective tissues.

Additionally, vitamin C promotes a healthy inflammatory response, supports the immune system, and assists the body in combating environmental pollutants. It can also be beneficial in helping reduce the effects of normal environmental stress, supporting respiratory health, and maintaining the normal function of the urinary tract.

Foods That Contain Vitamin C For Dogs

While dogs can synthesize vitamin C on their own in their livers, providing dietary sources can also be beneficial. Here are several foods for dogs that contain vitamin C:

Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, blueberries make a good treat for dogs.

Strawberries: They are high in vitamin C and also contain an enzyme that can help keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean.

Sweet potatoes: These are a good source of various nutrients, including Vitamin C.

Parsley: This herb is a good source of vitamin C and also supports gum tissue health.

Vitamin D For The Dog’s Body

Vitamin D is essential for helping keep animals in peak condition. One of its primary functions involves supporting the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body, which is crucial for helping build and maintain bones and teeth. Vitamin D is also vital for supporting normal muscle and nervous systems, including normal brain and nerve function.

To add to that, vitamin D enhances the immune response, promoting immune health and supporting normal detoxification processes to enhance the physical and mental well-being of an animal. It has been linked to supporting a normal inflammatory response. Vitamin D also supports the normal function and health of the kidneys and normal blood pressure.

Foods Containing Vitamin D For Dogs

While dogs primarily obtain vitamin D through exposure to sunlight, some foods can also contribute to their vitamin D intake:

Fatty fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in vitamin D, in addition to omega fatty acids.

Beef liver: Liver from beef and other animals is a good source of vitamin D, but it should be given in moderation due to its high vitamin A content.

Eggs: Egg yolks are high in vitamin D.

Functional Mushrooms: Mushrooms for Dogs can be an excellent source of vitamin D, as they often contain a full spectrum of vitamin D.

Vitamin E To Promote Dog’s Health

Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting long-term health in dogs. It helps fight free radicals, which are harmful molecules produced during normal metabolism as well as through exposure to toxins. By helping decrease oxidative damage, vitamin E supports cellular health, thus enhancing organ function.

In addition to providing antioxidant support, vitamin E supports the immune system, helping to maintain physical and mental well-being. It promotes a healthy coat and skin by supporting cell function and promoting normal inflammatory pathways, which soothes skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies. Vitamin E also plays a role in promoting long-term ocular health and supports normal red blood cell health, which helps promote normal circulation.

Foods Containing Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a crucial antioxidant that helps decrease oxidative damage in your dog’s body. Foods that are good sources of vitamin E include:

Leafy green vegetables: Spinach, turnip greens, and kale are good examples of vitamin E-rich vegetables.

Seeds: Sunflower seeds and almonds are particularly high in vitamin E.

Avocado: Avocado contains Vitamin E, but it should be given in moderation due to its high-fat content.

Vitamin K For Dogs

Vitamin K is responsible for promoting the development of certain proteins known as clotting factors in the liver. Clotting factors support normal blood values. This function supports normal blood values following surgery and a normal recovery.

In addition to its role in supporting normal blood values, vitamin K also helps build strong bones. It aids in promoting the regulation of calcium and promotes the development of osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone matrix.

Vitamin K also plays a role in cardiovascular health. It supports the normal function of the cardiac muscles and supports normal circulatory function. By doing so, it helps keep animals in peak condition.

Foods Containing Vitamin K For Dogs

Several foods that are rich in vitamin K can be provided to your dog, including:

Leafy green vegetables: Kale, spinach, and turnip greens are excellent sources of vitamin K. They can be given in moderation, and it’s best to serve them cooked and plain.

Broccoli: This vegetable is not only rich in vitamin K but also contains other essential nutrients. However, it should be given in moderation due to its high fiber content.

Brussels sprouts: While rich in vitamin K, they should be given in moderation.

Parsley: Parsley can be an excellent source of vitamin K.

Cabbage: Cabbage is another good source of vitamin K, but it should be given in moderation and may need to be cooked.

Fish: Fish, including salmon and tuna, are good sources of vitamin K.

Eggs: Eggs are a good source of vitamin K. Organic, free range eggs are recommended over store-bought eggs.

Liver: Beef liver is rich in vitamin K and can be a good addition to a dog’s diet in moderation.

Fat Soluble Vitamins Versus Water Soluble Vitamins

Before you jump into making a complete and balanced diet to promote and support long-term health, it’s important to learn which vitamins are fat soluble vitamins and which are water-soluble, and how each type functions within the body.

Fat Soluble Vitamins

These vitamins are stored in the body’s fatty tissues and liver. They are not needed every day in the diet, as the body reserves them for use. Since they’re stored within the body, oversupplementation could potentially cause health concerns. The key fat soluble vitamins include:

Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K

Water Soluble Vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and need to be replenished regularly through a complete and balanced diet. They include:

B Vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12
Vitamin C

When it comes to dog nutrition, a balanced intake of both fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins helps maintain optimal health. While each vitamin has specific functions, together they help keep dogs in peak condition, ranging from helping build strong bones to helping support energy production at a cellular level.

Vitamins In Commercial Dog Food

Commercial dog foods are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs for a healthy life, ensuring that they receive the appropriate balance of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Manufacturers often add these vitamins in the form of synthetic supplements to ensure that the dog food meets the specific nutrient profiles established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for different life stages and dietary needs of dogs.

Although vitamins are present in a commercial diet, every dog is unique, and sometimes individual needs might not be fully met by a standard diet. Here are a few reasons why you might consider adding dog vitamin supplements to their commercial food diet:

Age: Puppies, adults, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs. Senior dogs may have different vitamin needs than young adult dogs.
Nutritional gaps: Commercial dog food is designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, which means what works for one dog may not work for another, leading to a need for added dog vitamins.
Preventive care: Some pet owners use supplements as a preventive measure to promote a healthy life and decrease the risk of health concerns.

Finding a High-Quality Product That Contains Essential Vitamins For Dogs

Even if you’re offering whole food options, providing your dog with the occasional treat can not only feel rewarding to your pup but to pet parents as well. Unfortunately, the world of vitamin supplements and dog treats is highly unregulated, leading to many companies providing less-than-healthy products. Before you purchase any product, do your research, and don’t forget to ask questions.

Earth Buddy Products For Dogs

Earth Buddy offers products that contain sources of essential vitamins for dogs, including:

Beef & Pumpkin Calming Chews for Dogs

Earth Buddy’s Beef & Pumpkin calming chews for dogs not only provide a rich source of vitamins but also full-spectrum hemp extract to promote relaxation. Pumpkins are a natural source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. These are the best calming chews for dogs to relax tension and separation.

Blueberry Hemp Hearts

The Blueberry Hemp Hearts contain vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin E, in addition to fiber and antioxidants to help keep dogs in peak health.

The other ingredients in these calming supplements also help dogs remain in peak health:

Turmeric with black pepper helps maintain a normal inflammatory response and supports normal emotional balance.
Organic apple cider vinegar helps maintain proper gut pH and promotes healthy immune function.
Organic coconut oil provides healthy fat to support skin health, maintain a healthy coat, and enhance brain function. It also assists in the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.

Duck & Apple Calming Chews for Dogs

These dog calming chews combine the benefits of CBD with the vitamins found in duck and apples. Duck meat is a nutritious source of essential vitamins, including B-vitamins including B6 and B12, niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), and riboflavin (B2). Apples are a valuable source of essential vitamins, notably vitamin C, as well as a variety of B-vitamins. Earth Buddy Calming Chews for Dogs are all limited ingredient, grain free, and without sugary or starchy binders.

To provide full transparency to pet parents, Earth Buddy shares all lab reports for all offered products. The products are created using high-quality, natural ingredients without the use of artificial ingredients or preservatives, which can be verified in the reports from third-party lab testing.

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