Dog Aging Project study finds supplement use is common in dogs

A new analysis from the Dog Aging Project found that supplements are a routine part of care for many dogs in its large U.S. cohort: 20,993 of 40,367 dogs, or 52%, were reported to receive at least one supplement based on enrollment survey data collected from January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2022. Among dogs receiving supplements, the most common products were omega-3 fatty acids and joint supplements, each used in more than half of supplement users. The study, published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research, also found that dog characteristics were more strongly tied to supplement use than pet parent characteristics, and the authors highlighted especially high use among dogs with orthopedic conditions. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the findings are a reminder that supplement conversations are already happening, whether they start in the exam room or not. In the Dog Aging Project podcast discussion, researchers said supplement use appeared more reactive than preventive, with dogs reported to be in poorer health more likely to receive supplements. They also noted that use patterns varied by life stage: joint supplements increased with age, probiotics were most common in puppies, and omega-3 use stayed relatively steady across ages. That makes nutrition and evidence-based counseling an increasingly important part of routine care, especially for senior dogs and dogs with chronic musculoskeletal disease. (veterinaryvertex.buzzsprout.com)

What to watch: Because the Dog Aging Project is longitudinal, future analyses may help clarify whether supplement use is mostly a response to disease, an attempt at prevention, or both. (frontiersin.org)