Pet parents have all the basics covered—food, toys, bedding and plenty of treats. However, these items are the bare minimum required to keep your dog happy and healthy. Pet parents need to consider the common ailments that befall every dog at some point in their life. From stress to minor aches and pains, dogs could use a little extra something to keep their health in top shape.

Take care of your dog’s mind and body by putting together a general wellness kit. Below, you’ll discover all the must-have supplements that belong in every pet parent’s cabinet.

Why your pup needs a wellness kit

Dogs need a lot more than food, water and shelter. The market is full of nutrient-rich supplements that bolster every aspect of your pup’s health. Much like their human companions, dogs require supplements that fill in the gaps left behind from food. While healthy dog food is out there, many companies produce kibble that’s high in preservatives and grain fillers. The supplements in your dog’s general wellness kit will make sure all the bases are covered.

Pet parents usually don’t think about their dog’s health until it’s time for that annual vet checkup. What’s even worse, some pet parents don’t take action until their pup has developed a very obvious health concern. A general wellness kit prioritizes your dog’s health every day so they don’t become ill in the first place. Pets need consistent upkeep so their bodies can function like a well-oiled machine.

A general wellness kit can have long-lasting health benefits. Dogs who take supplements on a regular basis have a significantly lower risk of chronic heart, kidney, joint and cognitive diseases. As a result, you’ll get to enjoy your pup’s company for many more years. In addition to increasing their lifespan, wellness kits slow the onset of chronic pain for overall improved comfort. When their bodies are in good shape, dogs spend more time playing and getting the most out of life. A healthy pup is a happy pup!

Essential items for healthy dogs

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of supplements available for canine health. As you compile a general wellness kit, focus on the nutrients every dog needs to stay healthy. Stock up on these essential items to promote your dog’s overall wellness.

• Fish oil: Fish oil is a supplement derived from salmon, cod and other types of cold-water fish. It’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, a healthy fat known for its ability to soothe allergy symptoms and reduce chronic inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids become even more important as your pup ages because these compounds can slow the progression of degenerative joint disease. Dogs can’t produce their own omega-3 fatty acids, so they have to get it from a fish oil supplement.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are the number-one supplement for canine digestive health. They contain billions of healthy bacteria that populate the gut microbiome and help your dog’s immune system fight off pathogens. While dogs already have good bacteria in their guts, a daily probiotic supplement is necessary to replenish bacteria that gets lost over time. Besides maintaining regular bowel movements, dogs need a healthy gut to avoid contracting parasites, worms or viral infections.
• Calming tonic: Every dog experiences some amount of stress in their life. Many situations can trigger their anxiety, whether it’s traveling, staying home alone, vet trips or noisy environments. Stress is unavoidable, which is why pet parents need to be prepared when it arises. Calming tonics deserve a spot in every pup’s general wellness kit because they help the mind and body relax during stressful situations. Organic herbs like skullcap, valerian root, lemon balm and passion flower possess mild sedative properties and relax the central nervous system.
• Comfort support: Pups develop minor aches and pains, especially as they get older. No matter the cause of discomfort, dogs need a supplement they can take whenever it becomes difficult to move around. Supplements that promote physical comfort should always be a part of your dog’s general wellness kit. You can administer the supplement as needed or in addition to treatment for an ongoing medical condition. Look for a supplement with turmeric, ginger, rosemary and corydalis, as these herbs calm muscle soreness and promote blood circulation.

Pups depend on their loving pet parents to stay healthy. The nutrients you put in your dog’s body play a role in their risk for disease and quality of life. In addition to the supplements mentioned here, add items to your dog’s general wellness kit that are specific to their age, breed and health condition. Remember, even the healthiest pups need a wellness kit!