Author: DOG FIT by PreThis®

29 Oct 2026

Supplements for old dogs: what really makes sense

Älterer Hund mit grauer Schnauze im herbstlichen Gras

Supplements for old dogs: what really makes sense

Older dog with a grey muzzle in autumn grass Supplements for old dogs can make sense, but they are not a must. The basis, after all, remains a complete food that suits your dog’s age, size and weight. Only if this food does not cover everything is a supplement worth considering. On average, dogs are considered seniors from about seven years of age. So talk to your vet before adding any supplement, especially if your dog is on medication.

What changes in nutrition with age?

  • Less energy: Metabolism slows down, and older dogs burn fewer calories. Without adjustment, they therefore gain weight more easily and lose muscle at the same time.
  • High-quality protein: Older dogs, on the other hand, still need easily digestible, high-quality protein to maintain their muscles.
  • Digestion: With age, the body may absorb nutrients from food less well.
  • Exercise: Adapted, regular exercise also helps to maintain weight.

Food first, then supplements

A complete feed already fully covers your dog’s needs if it suits its life stage. A complementary feed, on the other hand, only adds individual nutrients. So first check whether the food suits an older dog and whether the amount is still right. Only then is it worth looking at supplements for old dogs. The rule is: as needed rather than high-dose, because more is not automatically better.

Which nutrients are worth considering in supplements for old dogs?

Nutrient Role in the body
High-quality protein Provides the building blocks for muscles, organs and coat.
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA) Are part of cell membranes. Good sources include fish and green-lipped mussel.
Glucosamine Is a natural building block of cartilage and joint fluid, which the body also produces itself.
Collagen Is a structural protein in cartilage, tendons, ligaments and skin.
Vitamin E Acts as an antioxidant and thus protects cell components from oxidation.
B vitamins Are needed for energy metabolism and for the normal function of the nervous system, including signal transmission to muscles and organs.

What to look for when buying

  • Read the label: Check exactly what is in it and how much per daily portion. Also note whether it is a complete or a complementary feed.
  • Avoid duplication: Many nutrients are already in the food. Several supplements together can therefore overlap.
  • Consider medication: Supplements can interact with medication. So clarify this with your vet beforehand.
  • Check quality: Look for clear information on origin and for independent quality testing.
  • Keep an eye on weight: Weigh your dog regularly. That way, you notice early whether food and supplement still fit together.

When should you talk to your vet?

Ideally before you start any supplement. Your vet knows your dog and can assess whether and which supplement suits it. Regular check-ups are also useful in older age so that changes are noticed early.

Frequently asked questions

When is a dog considered old?
On average, dogs are considered seniors from about seven years of age. When your dog gets older, however, also depends on breed and size.

Does every old dog need a supplement?
No. If your dog gets a complete food that suits it, a supplement is often not necessary. It is best to clarify with your vet whether one makes sense.

Can you supplement too much?
Yes. Some nutrients can be harmful in excessive amounts, for example vitamins A and D. That is why the rule is: as needed rather than high-dose.

Which supplement is the best?
There is no single best one. The right supplement suits the food, the age and the needs of your dog.

Sources

An older dog above all needs suitable food, exercise and time with you. A well-chosen supplement can round this off, but it cannot replace it.

Read more: Vitamin B for dogs · The myth of high-dose vitamins · Old dog loses weight despite eating

From our range

DOG FIT by PreThis® CARE senior. Complementary feed for older dogs with glucosamine sulphate, collagen hydrolysate, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, calcium from eggshell, vitamins A, D and E as well as iron and zinc. In three sizes for small, medium and large dogs. To the shop

dog fit by prethis care senior
16 Oct 2026

Vitamin B for dogs: which B vitamins matter and why

Zwei Labradore fressen frisches Fleisch von einem Teller im Garten

Vitamin B for dogs: which B vitamins matter and why

Two Labradors eating fresh meat from a plate in the garden Vitamin B for dogs is a collective term for eight water-soluble vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, biotin (B7), folic acid (B9) and B12. In the body they mainly work as helpers of enzymes, for example in energy metabolism. Because dogs can hardly store them, apart from B12, they have to come regularly with the food. However, a real deficiency is rare with a complete, balanced diet.

What is vitamin B for dogs?

The B vitamins are a group of eight vitamins that are not chemically related but have similar tasks. Most of them are so-called coenzymes, in other words helpers without which certain enzymes in the body do not work. That is why many metabolic processes depend on them, for example gaining energy from food.

All B vitamins are water-soluble. Therefore the body excretes most excess amounts again. One exception is vitamin B12: it is stored in the liver.

Which B vitamins are there, and what does the dog need them for?

Vitamin Important role in the body
B1 (thiamine) energy metabolism, especially from carbohydrates; important for nerves and heart muscle
B2 (riboflavin) part of coenzymes in energy metabolism
B3 (niacin) energy metabolism; dogs can partly make it themselves from the amino acid tryptophan
B5 (pantothenic acid) building block of coenzyme A, central to fat and energy metabolism
B6 (pyridoxine) metabolism of amino acids, the building blocks of protein
B7 (biotin) helper for four enzymes in fat, sugar and amino acid metabolism
B9 (folic acid) formation of building blocks of genetic material, amino acid metabolism; works together with B12
B12 (cobalamin, for example as methylcobalamin) blood formation and nerve tissue; found almost only in animal foods

What does vitamin B for dogs have to do with the nervous system?

The nervous system controls almost everything your dog does. It carries signals from the brain via the spinal cord to the muscles and to organs such as the bladder, and in return reports back what is happening in the body. For this signal transmission, nerve cells constantly need energy. That is why vitamins B1, B6 and B12 contribute to the normal function of the nervous system, and B1 and B12 also to a normal energy metabolism.

Attention and a balanced temperament also depend on a well-functioning nervous system. Several B vitamins, above all B6, are involved in forming the messenger substances that nerve cells use to communicate with each other. Exciting phases, for example a journey, a move or a new daily routine, place particular demands on the body.

The spinal cord and nerve roots run along the spine, and through them signals reach the whole body. Older dogs in particular place high demands on their nutrient supply with their musculoskeletal system. A supply of B vitamins that meets needs is then part of well-thought-out feeding. If your dog’s walking or behaviour changes, your dog belongs in veterinary hands.

Why does my dog need vitamin B regularly?

Since B vitamins are water-soluble, the body hardly builds up any reserves. That is why they have to be taken in continuously with food. In addition, gut bacteria produce some B vitamins, for example biotin and folic acid. Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is found almost only in animal foods such as meat, offal, fish and eggs; plants contain practically none.

When can a dog get too little vitamin B?

  • With a complete diet: rarely. According to the veterinary reference MSD Veterinary Manual, a deficiency of B1, niacin or biotin hardly ever occurs in dogs fed a complete, balanced diet.
  • Home-made rations: With raw feeding or home-cooked food, the safety net of a complete food is missing. Therefore have the ration calculated by a nutrition adviser or your vet.
  • Raw freshwater fish: It contains an enzyme (thiaminase) that destroys vitamin B1. If it is often fed raw, B1 can run short.
  • Raw egg white: It contains avidin, a protein that binds biotin. Fed raw in larger amounts, it can disturb the biotin supply.
  • Absorption in the gut: B12 and folic acid are absorbed via the gut. If absorption there is disturbed, a deficiency can develop despite good food. Only your vet can determine this with a blood test, and your vet also treats it.

How can I tell that something is missing?

The signs are non-specific: loss of appetite, weight loss, a dull coat, skin problems or lethargy can have many causes. Therefore: if you notice something like this, have it checked by a vet instead of giving vitamins on suspicion. In addition, there is a simple blood test for B12 and folic acid.

Is more vitamin B better?

No. Admittedly, B vitamins are less risky than fat-soluble vitamins, because the body usually excretes excess amounts. Nevertheless, what matters is a supply that meets needs, with the B vitamins in the right proportion to each other. High-dose products bring no extra benefit if there is no increased need. You can read more about this in our article on the myth of high-dose vitamins.

When can a vitamin B supplement make sense?

If the ration is home-made or needs rise in certain stages of life, for example during growth or lactation, a supplement can make sense. In that case, look for a product for dogs that contains all eight B vitamins in amounts that meet needs, and if in doubt, discuss feeding with your vet.

Frequently asked questions

Can I give my dog vitamin B for humans?
Better not without asking. Products for humans are designed for humans, and many are high-dose. So use a product for dogs or ask your vet.

Does my dog need extra vitamin C?
Usually not, because dogs make vitamin C themselves in the liver.

Which foods contain a lot of vitamin B12?
Above all animal foods such as meat, offal, fish and eggs.

Can a dog get too much vitamin B?
The risk is low because excess amounts are usually excreted. Still, meeting needs is better than high doses.

Everyday tip: around New Year’s Eve

Around New Year’s Eve it is often loud and hectic outside. So plan walks for the afternoon, keep your dog on the lead and give him a quiet retreat indoors. If your dog is very afraid of loud noises, talk to your vet in good time.

Sources

Good nutrition does not mean a lot, it means the right amount. Knowing what the B vitamins are for helps you make better decisions for the bowl.

Read more: The myth of high-dose vitamins · Old dog loses weight despite eating · Cauda equina syndrome in dogs

From our range

DOG FIT by PreThis® VITAMIN B. Complementary feed for dogs with all eight B vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, biotin, folic acid and B12 as methylcobalamin. Vegan, free from artificial additives. To VITAMIN B in the shop

DOG FIT by PreThis VITAMIN B
11 Mar 2025

The myth of high-dose vitamins for dogs

Der Unsinn von hochdosierten Vitaminen

The myth of high-dose vitamins for dogs

The Nonsense of High-Dose Vitamins

At a time when health awareness for humans and animals is paramount, many dog ​​owners are turning to vitamin supplements – often in the hope of improving their dogs’ well-being with high-dose products. But be careful: High-dose vitamins are not only mostly unnecessary, but can even be harmful under certain circumstances. This article highlights the most important facts and risks surrounding vitamin supplementation for dogs.

Water- and Fat-Soluble Vitamins: What’s Important to Know?

Vitamins are divided into two main groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. The water-soluble vitamins include, in particular, the B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) and vitamin C. They can hardly be stored in the body, and excess amounts are normally excreted in the urine. While this reduces the risk of overdose, a permanently increased intake can still be stressful for the kidneys and is not advisable.

The B vitamins in particular are important for numerous processes in the dog’s organism. However, they only achieve their optimal effect when they are administered in the correct proportions and in doses appropriate to the dog’s needs. “More is better” is the wrong approach here. High-dose supplements can disrupt the synergy of the B vitamins and lead to imbalances. Unfortunately, the topic is often presented differently in advertising and by providers – a trend that does not necessarily serve the dog’s health.

Risks of an Overdose of Vitamins B6 and B12

A long-term excess of vitamin B6 can lead to neurological problems in dogs, including coordination problems, muscle tremors, or even nerve damage. Too much vitamin B12, in turn, can impair the absorption of other nutrients such as iron and, with long-term intake, lead to deficiency symptoms. The need for B vitamins varies from individual to individual and should not be met with high doses across the board.

Fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, and K

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) can be stored in the body, which increases the risk of overdose. Vitamins A and D, in particular, should only be administered in precisely measured amounts, as excessive intake can lead to health problems such as bone damage, organ complications, or calcium imbalances.

The misconception of “healthy high doses”

The idea that a high dose of vitamins can do something particularly good for a dog persists. In fact, requirements vary depending on age, weight, activity level, and state of health. Uncontrolled supplementation can disrupt the balance of vitamins and, in the worst case, cause more harm than good. Particularly problematic: An oversupply of individual vitamins can block the absorption and utilization of other nutrients.

B vitamins: No “more is better” logic

B vitamins, in particular, are often advertised as “high doses.” However, the following also applies here: While increased requirements may arise in certain life situations (e.g., increased stress, growth, or after illness), blanket high dosages are not justified. A needs-based, balanced intake is the right approach.

The Role of Information and Personal Responsibility

It is advisable to obtain thorough information before administering vitamins and, if in doubt, seek expert advice. Advertising should be critically examined. This is the only way to avoid financial interests or trends becoming more important than your dog’s well-being.

Needs-Based Supplements at DOG FIT by PreThis®

At DOG FIT by PreThis®, we rely on a needs-based approach to supplements for dogs. Our products are carefully formulated and take into account average daily feeding values, the dog’s age, weight class, and individual needs. We work on the basis of current scientific findings and veterinary experience to avoid over- or under-dosing. Our goal is to provide dogs with optimal support – not with a one-size-fits-all approach, but with expertise, responsibility, and care.

Every product and every dosage recommendation is designed to respect the dog’s physiological needs and support their daily routine. Instead of relying on eye-catching high dosages, we value balanced recipes and transparent communication. If you have any questions or concerns, we are available to advise you.

Read more: Vitamin B for dogs: which B vitamins matter and why

02 Jan 2025

Hair loss in dogs » Causes and solutions

Retriever

Hair loss in dogs » Causes and solutions

Golden Retriever dog

Hair loss in dogs is a common issue that concerns many dog ​​owners. Some hair loss is normal, especially during seasonal shedding. However, if hair loss occurs suddenly, increases in intensity, or bald patches appear, it may indicate health problems. In this article, we’ll look at the possible causes and show you how to tackle the problem naturally.

Causes of hair loss in dogs

1. Seasonal shedding

Seasonal shedding is one of the most common causes of hair loss. Especially in spring and autumn, dogs shed more hair to adapt to the changing temperatures. This is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. However, when dogs shed hair in winter, it may seem contradictory at first. However, this can often be explained by the fact that they are kept in heated rooms.

2. Allergies

Dogs can be allergic to various environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites or food. An allergic reaction can manifest itself in itching, redness and hair loss.

3. Parasite infestation

Fleas, mites and ticks can cause hair loss by irritating the skin. A common cause is the so-called flea saliva allergy, which can cause severe itching and bald patches.

4. Hormonal disorders

Diseases such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or Cushing’s syndrome (overproduction of cortisol) can lead to hair loss. These hormonal disorders affect the coat cycle and often cause symmetrical hair loss.

5. Malnutrition

An unbalanced diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies that have a negative impact on skin and coat health. A lack of omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, zinc or vitamins can cause brittle fur and hair loss.

6. Skin infections

Bacterial infections or fungal infections (e.g. dermatophytosis) can damage the skin and lead to localized hair loss. Symptoms such as dandruff, redness or weeping wounds are often accompanying symptoms.

7. Stress

Stress can also lead to hair loss in dogs. Changes in everyday life, separation anxiety or the loss of a companion can have a negative impact on the health of the fur.

8. Genetic predisposition

Some dog breeds have a genetic tendency to hair loss. For example, Chinese crested dogs or Mexican hairless dogs can naturally have less fur.

What to do if your dog loses hair?

If a dog loses more hair, the cause should be clarified. The following steps can help:

  1. Visiting the vet: Have the dog’s health checked to rule out serious illnesses.
  2. Adjusting the diet: A high-quality diet with all the important nutrients is essential for a healthy coat.
  3. Regular care: Brush the dog’s coat regularly to remove dead hair and stimulate the skin.
  4. Parasite prophylaxis: Ensure effective protection against fleas, mites and ticks.

A mindful approach to your dog’s individual needs, regular exercise, and loving companionship in everyday life can significantly contribute to maintaining your four-legged friend’s zest for life. Working with experienced professionals and adapting their living environment early on will help ensure your dog enjoys the greatest possible comfort.

Product note:  VITAL shine plus – with carefully balanced micronutrients for dogs with special challenges. Free of additives.
DOG FIT by PreThis VITAL shine plus
21 Dec 2024

Are dogs still dogs? Domestication and its effects

Wolf

Are dogs still dogs? Domestication and its effects

wolf

The relationship between humans and dogs is one of the oldest and most profound bonds in the history of animal-human interaction. For thousands of years, dogs have accompanied us as guardians, helpers and friends. But as domestication and breeding progress, more and more questions arise: Are dogs still the robust, instinct-driven animals they once were? Or have humans changed their nature so much that they have partially moved away from their original identity? This article sheds light on the pitfalls and challenges of dog domestication.

From Wolf to Dog: A Journey of Change

Dog domestication began around 15,000 to 30,000 years ago, when wolves began to join human settlements. It was a symbiosis: humans benefited from the wolves’ keen senses, while the animals gained access to food and shelter. But over the course of thousands of years, the wolf became the dog, and with each generation, behavior, appearance and needs changed. small sex doll

Breeding and its consequences

Specific breeding began around 200 years ago when people began to select dogs based on certain characteristics. While some breeds were functional (such as herding dogs or hunting dogs), other breeds were more aesthetically focused. This development led to the large number of dog breeds that exist today, but also brought with it significant problems:

  • Genetic diseases: Many breeds suffer from hereditary diseases that have arisen through overbreeding. Examples include hip dysplasia in German shepherds or breathing problems in pugs and bulldogs.
  • Changed instincts: Some breeds have lost their original instincts, such as hunting or herding, and instead show increased behavioral problems.
  • Unhealthy body structures: Flat-nosed dogs (brachycephalic breeds) often have difficulty breathing, while breeds with short legs and long backs, such as dachshunds, are prone to herniated discs.

Diet: From hunter to dry food lover?

Another example of domestication is diet. While the wolf mainly eats meat, the modern dog is often used to ready-made food. But many of these industrial foods contain grains, sugar and low-quality ingredients that are not only unhealthy, but also alien to the species. This leads to problems such as:

  • Tartar and bad breath
  • Obesity and diabetes
  • Allergies and digestive problems

A species-appropriate diet with fresh ingredients and high-quality wet food can help to avoid these problems.

Behavior: Between cuddly toy and working animal

Dogs’ behavior has also changed due to domestication and breeding. While wolves are naturally independent and instinct-driven, many dogs have lost their independence. Examples:

  • Some breeds tend to be very attached and suffer from separation anxiety because they were bred to be close to humans.
  • Working dogs such as Border Collies or Malinois often show behavioral problems if they are not sufficiently challenged because they were bred for specific tasks.

Are dogs still dogs?

The answer is complex. Dogs may have been domesticated, but they still carry many of the characteristics of their ancestors. Instincts such as digging, hunting or marking territory have been preserved in almost every breed. Nevertheless, domestication has influenced their nature in many ways. They have become more dependent on humans, which on the one hand makes them great companions, but on the other hand also brings new challenges.

What can we do to do justice to dogs?

  1. Species-appropriate care: Dogs need exercise, social interaction and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
  2. Natural nutrition: Fresh ingredients and high-quality food without artificial additives promote health.
  3. Responsible breeding: Instead of aesthetics, more emphasis should be placed on health and character when breeding.
  4. Returning to their nature: Even though dogs are domesticated, we should respect and encourage their natural needs.

Conclusion

Dogs are still our loyal companions, but domestication has changed their nature greatly. It is all the more important that we are aware of our responsibility and enable them to live a life that meets their needs. Because ultimately one thing remains unchanged: dogs areAnd not just animals, but full-fledged family members who enrich us every day with their loyalty and love.