The Other Type of Vitamin Supplements: Water Soluble Vitamins

These are nutrients that it is near impossible to over supplement, because they are not stored I the body.  Any amount of excess of these vitamins is flushed out through the kidneys and removed every time the dog urinates. It typically takes 4 to 8 hours after a dog consumes these vitamins for anything he doesn't need to be removed from the body. While you can't over supplement your pup with water soluble vitamins, it is important that you make sure they are being replenished in the diet.

Dog supplements like water soluble vitamins are pretty simple, the B vitamins and vitamin C.  We are going to start with the B vitamins.

Thiamine - can be destroyed in commercial foods. Raw fish can also destroy this B vitamin; you should avoid giving your dog raw fish of any kind. Thiamine is used in the body to metabolize carbohydrates. It also coverts glucose to the needed energy in the body and the nerves and the muscles need it to function properly. Signs of deficiency include poor reflexes, energy issues, neural disorders and a decrease or loss of appetite.

Riboflavin - can be destroyed by irradiation and light. If you have your dog on a vegetarian diet they may need supplements. Riboflavin is important for normal muscle development, normal growth and normal hair. It is essential to the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Helps with red blood cell formation, tissue repair and antibodies. Signs of deficiency include poor growth, rear limb weakness and heart failure.

Niacin - another B vitamin and one of many high quality dog supplements that may need to be supplemented for dogs that are on vegetarian diets. Mostly found in meat. Responsible for the metabolism of protein, fats and carbohydrates. A requirement for proper enzyme function, healthy oral and pharyngeal tissues, cell metabolism, skin and nervous system. Signs of deficiency include memory loss, weight loss, irritability, weakness and skin rashes.

Pantothenic Acid - important in amino acid synthesis and the synthesis of fatty acids. It is essential for the metabolism of carbs, fats and proteins and to help convert them into energy. Signs of deficiency include constipation, GI problems and hair loss.

Pyridoxine - can be destroyed in commercial foods. It is needed for proper growth and metabolism of amino acids. Signs of deficiency include anemia, fatigue and gum disease.

Biotin - easily destroyed by raw egg whites; however the egg yolk is rich in biotin. Vitamin B7 is essential for the metabolism of fats, carbs, and proteins as well as for healthy coat and skin and a healthy circulatory system. Signs of deficiency include skin sores, rashes and a poor coat.

B12 - is essential for formation of red and white blood cells as well as proper neurological functioning.  Helps to make sure that the skin and hair are healthy, also that there is proper growth and muscle and digestion function. Signs of deficiency include impaired kidney and/or liver function as well as growth problems.

Choline - is needed for neurotransmitters and cell membranes. Can be found in many plant and animal materials and is easily metabolized by mammals. It is required in larger quantities then the other vitamins. Choline is responsible for nerve transmission, proper cell membrane structure and it regulates the gallbladder and the liver. Signs of deficiency include impaired kidney and liver function.

Folic Acid - is essential for the creation of white blood cells and red blood cells from the bone marrow. Helps with normal growth as well as maintaining the health of the intestinal tract. Signs of deficiency include an increase risk of infection as well as anemia.

Vitamin C - might help reduce the occurrence of bladder stone. Protects your dog against cancer and other life threatening diseases. Vitamin C is essential for the formation of the bones as well as healthy gums and teeth. Helps with proper wound healing, healthy immune system and the integrity if the capillaries and the mucosa.