Dogs need a variety of vitamins to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. There are several different types of vitamins. Two major groups are fat-soluble and water-soluble. Vitamins found in the fat-soluble group are stored in the fat cells and require smaller amounts to sustain a well balanced diet. The water-soluble group contains vitamins that are broken down daily in the dogs body so they need to be replenished daily. Here are a few vitamins from the water-soluble group that you should make sure your dog gets:
- The B complex vitamins represent a large number of B Vitamin combinations. The B complex vitamins are required in small amounts in the daily diet. They are essential to many functions in the body. Certain combinations of the B complex vitamins can be deadly if too much of them are introduced to the system. This is why it´s imperative that you do not give any extra vitamins. Your dog should get all the B vitamins he needs from his daily diet. You should never give vitamin supplements to your pet unless a veterinarian prescribes them.
- The second most important water-soluble vitamin is Vitamin C. Vitamin C works in conjunction with other vitamins as well as contributing to the overall general health of your dog. It also helps boost the immune system. You do not need to give your dog Vitamin C because a dog has the unique ability to make his own.
- The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to vitamins and other nutrients is that if you shop around and compare brands of dog food you should be able to find an acceptable food that provides all the essentials without having to give anything in addition to the normal feedings.
