German Shepherd Supplements

German Shepherds Dogs are active, intelligent, and do best when performing at their best, both mentally and physically. The most common type of Supplement for a German Shepherd Dog (otherwise known as a GSD) is a hip-and-joint supplement. Hip-dysplasia and osteoarthritis are conditions of concern for nearly all Large Breed Dogs. Still, German Shepherds are unique in that it is not uncommon for them also to develop elbow dysplasia. It is, therefore, essential that German Shepherds, especially those with high activity levels, including working dogs or in K9 units, have proper joint support early in life, even as puppies.
Skin support supplements like fish oil are also commonly used to help German Shepherds maintain a healthy skin and coat. Like all long-haired dogs, German Shepherds have three separate coats of fur, and keeping their skin healthy with a supplement helps their coat function properly; essential for any gsd living in colder climates. German Shepherd owners will get the added benefit of a faster blow-coat season if they help their Dog avoid dry skin.

The Right Supplement Can help German Shepherds Perform at their best and avoid common health problems if the supplement can:

• Support joint health and flexibility, maintain healthy elbows and hips and relieve occasional joint stiffness.
• Enhance the functions of joint and connective tissues to support peak performance using the best source of Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM
• Support GSD skin health with Omega-3 fatty acids
• Help maintain normal eye function, healthy vision development, and long-term ocular health.
• Provide a complete way to optimize overall health and improve quality of life, whether working dogs or not.
• Support normal immune system function.

One bag of WoofWell Supplements contains 60 soft chews and should suffice as a 30-day supply for most German Shepherds. The recommended dosage for Shepherds up to 70 lbs. is one chew twice daily. (Or two chews per day) Since the Supplement is designed to help reduce inflammation, it is the most effective when given at steady intervals throughout the day. (Instead of 2 chews every 24 hours, give one every 12 hours.) Consistency is crucial for senior dogs who might be experiencing joint pain. Since the supplements contain Glucosamine, which can cause stomach upset if taken on an empty stomach, be sure to give it during or after mealtime, especially when helping a growing German Shepherd puppy develop healthy joints.

The most common ingredients found in the best dog supplements include Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), Fish Oil - Omega 3's, Antioxidants, Lutein, Coenzyme Q10, and in some cases, CBD and turmeric. Different enzymes are required to break down calcium, so it is not as prevalent.

While every Dog is different, nearly all dogs like to be rewarded and prefer supplements they see as a 'treat.' If the chewable Supplement tastes good, administering it is a breeze. In general, when taken as directed, supplements are usually safe for German Shepherd Dogs. If your GSD is taking medication, it is always advisable to contact your veterinarian before starting any new supplement or vitamin.

Dog supplements are relatively new to the consumer market, and the best supplements are regulated by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). The NASC works closely with FDA and AAFCO to make sure companies who sell Animal supplements are acting in good faith, placing the proper warnings on their labels, reporting adverse events, and keeping in good Manufacturing practices. In addition, they set the classification rules for ingredients. For example, probiotics go in a feed; lutein goes in a supplement. 

1. For Maximum Efficacy, choose a Supplement for Your GSD with Multiple Active Ingredients
2. Always Check the Amount of Active Ingredient used. Companies trying to save a buck will often skimp on the milligrams of active ingredients in their products.
3. Always Buy Made In the USA. Not every country considers dogs to be man's best friend. Companies will label the country of manufacturing on the label, and if buying online or from Amazon, this information is usually easy to find.
4. If Your German Shepherd Has Allergies or Food Sensitivities, choose a Hypoallergenic Option
5. Taste and Format Matters. There are a lot of supplements on the market. Instead of using a powder that needs to be mixed with wet food to mix in, or a pill you must shove down your Dog's throat, we believe that if you have a superior, quality, effective Supplement that dogs love, you've won the whole battle. It is challenging to make great-tasting Hard chewable tablets. Soft-Chews provides an elegant way to create a high-quality joint supplement for dogs with vitamin a and vitamin e without compromising taste.
6. Results Will Vary Based on Your German Shepherd’s Age and Condition. It takes a while for your Dog to show signs of increased energy and mobility. There is no magic pill that gives increased mobility overnight. With consistency and time, owners report increases in energy and mobility, especially with their older dogs. Differences are more difficult to “see” in younger dogs since most are pretty active for most of their lives. The better the Supplement, the less of a difference you will “see.”

Chances are you are reading this article because you are aware of the benefits that supplementation offers. Whether it is protecting the vision of working dogs at night or alleviating stiffness in your best friend/security system, Be very skeptical of any supplement that claims it can “treat, prevent or cure” any disease. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.