The Truth About Pet Supplements: 7 Myths Canadian Pet Parents Still Believe

7 Pet Supplement Myths Canadian Dog Parents Still Believe (and Why They're Wrong)

If you’ve ever wandered down the pet aisle (or scrolled through pages of supplements online) and felt your brain short-circuit, you’re not alone. Pet health supplements have exploded in popularity across Canada - from probiotic chews and joint support formulas, to calming aids and even dog dental care that’s actually vet-approved. 

But with popularity comes a tidal wave of myths, half-truths, and outdated advice.
Some dog parents think supplements are “just expensive treats.” Others figure a scoop of yogurt or a dental chew is enough. And some avoid supplements altogether because they’re not sure what’s real and what’s marketing fluff.

Here’s the truth: when chosen wisely, the right supplements can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s digestion, mobility, dental health, skin and coat, and overall wellbeing - especially as they age. The key is separating fact from fiction.

In this guide, we’re busting 7 of the biggest myths Canadian dog parents still believe about pet supplements, and showing you how to choose trusted, vet-formulated products from top brands like:

• NaturVet: Probiotics, joint support, calming aids & daily wellness essentials
• Vet’s Best: Targeted, vet-formulated natural solutions for allergies, joints & more
• PetSmile Toothpaste: The only VOHC-accepted toothpaste brand for dogs, trusted by vets worldwide

We’ll cover everything from probiotics vs yogurt, to why dental treats aren’t enough, to the truth about joint supplements - all tailored to what Canadian pet parents are actually searching for. 

So grab a coffee, call your pup over, and let’s bust some myths. 

Myth #1: Dogs Don't Need Supplements If They Eat a Complete Diet

Many Canadian dog parents assume that if they’re feeding a high-quality kibble or a well-balanced freeze-dried raw diet, their dog is getting everything they need. Sounds logical, right? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.

Even the best “complete and balanced” dog foods can fall short in certain areas. Cooking and processing can degrade sensitive nutrients, and nutrient levels may meet the minimum standards, not the optimal levels for your dog’s individual needs. Factors like age, activity level, allergies, stress, environment, or health conditions can all create nutritional gaps.

Think of it like this:

• Your dog’s food is the foundation.
  
• Supplements are the reinforcement beams.
  
• They work together to support long-term health.

Why Supplements Still Matter (Even with a Good Diet)

1. Life stage matters: Puppies need extra support for growth and immunity; seniors benefit from added joint, digestive, and cognitive support.
2. Modern food = nutrient loss: High-heat processing can reduce probiotics, enzymes, and fragile vitamins.
3. Canadian environments can add stressors: Long winters, dry indoor heating, and seasonal allergens can affect skin, coat, and digestion.
4. Dental care isn’t covered by kibble: Even “dental formulas” don’t replace daily oral support.

Trusted Daily Support from NaturVet and Vet’s Best

When it comes to everyday wellness, choosing trusted, vet-formulated brands makes all the difference.

• NaturVet: Offers comprehensive daily support - from multivitamins and joint care to probiotics and skin & coat formulas — all backed by NASC certification and decades of expertise.
• Vet’s Best: Focuses on natural, plant-based ingredients and vet-developed solutions, perfect for pet parents who want science and nature working together.

Whether you’re supporting digestion, mobility, immunity, or overall vitality, these two trusted brands make it easy to fill in the gaps a regular diet might miss.

Even the best diet can leave small - but important - nutritional gaps. Adding a high-quality daily supplement like NaturVet All-in-One or Vet’s Best Daily Multi helps your dog thrive, not just survive.

🐕 Pro Tip: Think of supplements as your dog’s “insurance policy” for long-term health - especially in Canada’s changing seasons.

Myth #2: My Dog Doesn't Need Probiotics, He Can Just Have Yogurt

You’ve probably heard it before: “Just give your dog a spoonful of yogurt - same thing as probiotics.”

It’s a well-meaning tip, but here’s the catch: yogurt does not equate to canine probiotics. While plain yogurt does contain live cultures, it’s made for humans, not dogs, and that makes a big difference.

Why Yogurt Isn’t a Real Substitute for Dog Probiotics

• Wrong strains: Yogurt typically contains human strains like Lactobacillus bulgaricus or Streptococcus thermophilus, which may not colonize a dog’s gut effectively. Canine-specific probiotic strains (like Enterococcus faecium, L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis) are far more effective for dogs’ unique digestive needs.
• Lactose sensitivity: Many adult dogs don’t produce enough lactase, meaning yogurt can lead to gas, bloating, or loose stools.
• Inconsistent CFU counts: Therapeutic probiotics for dogs deliver consistent CFUs (colony-forming units) for measurable benefits - yogurt doesn’t.
• Targeted support: High-quality dog probiotics are often paired with digestive enzymes and prebiotics for a triple effect on gut health.

Yogurt vs. Dog-Specific Probiotics

Better Option: NaturVet and Vet’s Best Probiotics

For daily digestive health, species-specific probiotic chews are a smarter, safer choice:

• NaturVet Advanced Probiotics & Enzymes: Combines canine-specific probiotics with prebiotics and enzymes to support nutrient absorption, balanced gut flora, and sensitive tummies.
• Vet’s Best Probiotic Soft Chews: Vet-formulated with beneficial bacteria strains to help restore and maintain gut balance naturally.

Both are NASC-certified, easy to give daily, and ideal for dogs transitioning diets, recovering from antibiotics, or dealing with sensitive stomachs.

Key Takeaway

While yogurt is great for you, it’s not a reliable probiotic for your dog. A daily species-specific probiotic supplement is the real gut-health MVP — and it’s one of the easiest ways to support digestion, immunity, and regularity year-round.

Myth #3: Joint Supplements Only Work If Your Dog Already Has Arthritis

Many Canadian dog parents wait until their dog is visibly slowing down or struggling with stiffness before adding a joint supplement. But here’s the truth: by the time you see the signs, joint damage has often already started.

The real power of joint supplements lies in prevention, not just treatment.

Joint Health Is Like Brushing Teeth - Start Early, Stay Ahead

Just like you wouldn’t wait for cavities to start brushing your teeth, it’s smart to support your dog’s joints early - especially if they’re active, a large breed, or entering their senior years.

Key joint-supporting ingredients work best when built up over time:

• Glucosamine — helps maintain healthy cartilage and joint lubrication
• Chondroitin — supports cartilage resilience and shock absorption
• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) — reduces inflammation and supports joint comfort
• Hyaluronic acid (in advanced formulas) — supports joint cushioning and mobility

Starting early means less wear and tear later, and a much happier, spryer dog.

Top Joint Supplement Picks for Canadian Dogs

If you're looking to start supporting your dog’s joints early or give them extra help as they age, here are some of our most popular options:

• NaturVet Glucosamine DS (Level 2): Great for younger or active dogs needing daily maintenance support.
• Vet’s Best Advanced Hip & Joint: Vet-formulated blend with glucosamine, MSM, and plant-based ingredients for added flexibility and comfort.
• NaturVet Hemp Joint Health: Combines glucosamine with hemp seed oil and antioxidants for advanced joint support.
• NaturVet ArthriSoothe-GOLD (Level 3): A stronger formula for senior dogs or those needing maximum joint care.

Shop all joint care supplements to find the right fit for your dog’s age, activity level, and mobility needs.

Key Takeaway

Joint supplements aren’t just for dogs who are already limping. Starting early is like giving their joints a savings account, building resilience now for smoother movement later. Whether your pup is a zoomie champion or a couch cuddler, preventive joint care is one of the smartest long-term health moves you can make.

Myth #4: Calming Chews Are Basically Sedatives

If the phrase “calming chew” makes you picture your dog snoozing on the couch in a daze… you’re not alone. One of the most common misconceptions about calming supplements is that they work like doggy sleeping pills, but that’s far from the truth. 

How Calming Chews Really Work

High-quality calming supplements aren’t designed to sedate your dog. Instead, they use natural ingredients that help take the edge off anxiety, stress, and hyperactivity - without changing your dog’s personality or energy levels.

Common active ingredients you’ll find in vet-formulated calming aids include:

• 🌿 Chamomile – gently soothes the nervous system
• 🧪 L-Theanine & L-Tryptophan – support serotonin production to promote relaxation without drowsiness
• 🌱 Melatonin – helps regulate sleep cycles for nighttime anxiety or travel stress
• 🍃 Hemp Seed Oil – offers mild calming effects and supports overall wellness

These ingredients work best when given consistently or ahead of stressful situations (like vet visits, fireworks, or car rides) - not as a last-minute “knockout chew.”

Popular Calming Aids Pet Parents Love

Looking to support your dog’s emotional wellbeing naturally? Here are some of the top calming chews Canadian dog parents trust:

• NaturVet Quiet Moments Soft Chews with Melatonin: A gentle everyday option for stress, travel, and separation.
• NaturVet Hemp Quiet Moments Calming Aid: Adds hemp seed oil for extra relaxation support.
• Vet’s Best Comfort Calm: Vet-formulated with L-theanine and plant-based ingredients for a balanced calming effect.

Explore all calming support products to find the perfect match for your dog’s stress triggers.

Key Takeaway

Calming chews won’t sedate your dog — but the right formulas can help them feel safe, focused, and relaxed in situations that would normally cause stress. Whether you’re dealing with separation anxiety, fireworks season, or just a nervous traveler, calming aids can make life easier for both of you. 

Myth #5: Dental Treats Are Enough to Clean My Dog’s Teeth”

It’s easy to see why this myth is so popular. Dental treats are convenient, dogs love them, and the packaging often promises “tartar control” or “daily cleaning.” But here’s the reality: no chew can replace the mechanical cleaning power of brushing - especially when it comes to reaching plaque along the gumline.

Why Treats Alone Don’t Cut It

• Plaque vs. tartar: Dental chews can help scrape off some plaque, but they don’t remove it as effectively as brushing - especially in back molars and along the gumline, where periodontal disease starts.
• Contact time matters: Most dogs chew for seconds, not minutes. That’s not enough time for meaningful cleaning.
• VOHC matters: The VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) only awards its seal to products that meet strict standards. Most treats don’t make the cut.
• Prevention is key: Dental disease can start early - daily brushing can prevent expensive cleanings and serious health issues down the road.

The Gold Standard: PetSmile Toothpaste

PetSmile Professional Dog Toothpaste is VOHC-accepted, easy to use (no rinsing needed), and safe for daily brushing. It works enzymatically - meaning it dissolves plaque even if you can’t get a perfect brush every time.

• VOHC-approved for plaque and tartar control
• Fluoride-free and safe for daily use
• Designed for pet parents who want vet-level dental care at home

Paired with a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush, daily brushing with PetSmile is the single most effective way to support your dog’s oral health — and save on those pricey dental cleanings down the road.

Shop PetSmile Toothpaste and start a brushing routine your dog (and your wallet) will thank you for.

Key Takeaway

Dental treats can be a great supplement, but they’re not a substitute for brushing. Daily brushing with a VOHC-approved toothpaste like PetSmile is the gold standard for keeping your dog’s teeth healthy and their breath fresh.

Myth #6: Seasonal Allergies Only Need Meds, Not Supplements

When spring hits (or when the furnace kicks in during a long Canadian winter), many dogs start to itch, lick, or shed like crazy. The usual response? A vet visit and a prescription - which sometimes is the right call. But here’s the thing: medication isn’t the only way to support dogs with seasonal allergies.

Supplements can play a major role in reducing symptoms, soothing skin, and supporting the immune system naturally - often alongside medical treatments.

How Supplements Support Dogs with Allergies

Seasonal and environmental allergies are essentially overreactions of the immune system. Supplements can help address the underlying inflammation and barrier support your dog needs, rather than just masking the symptoms.

Key ingredients to look for:

• Quercetin — a natural antihistamine often called “nature’s Benadryl”
• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) — support skin hydration, reduce itchiness, and calm inflammation
• Antioxidants & probiotics — help regulate immune response and strengthen skin’s barrier function
• Colostrum & herbal blends — found in some vet-formulated products for added immune balance

Top Allergy & Skin Support Picks

Here are some of our most popular supplement options that help soothe seasonal allergies and support healthy skin & coat from the inside out:

• NaturVet Allergy Aid with Hemp Seed: Combines omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and hemp seed oil to support skin comfort and immune balance.
• NaturVet Allergy Aid Plus Antioxidants: A potent daily formula designed to target histamine response and support long-term skin health.
• NaturVet Omega-Gold Plus Salmon Oil Soft Chews: Rich in omega-3s for shiny coats and less itching.
• NaturVet Kelp Help Powder: A natural source of trace minerals and vitamins for skin and coat vitality.
• Vet’s Best Seasonal Allergy Support: Vet-formulated tablets with nettle leaf and perilla seed to support respiratory and skin health naturally.

Browse all Skin and Coat and Allergy Support: to find the best match for your dog’s sensitivities.

Key Takeaway

Meds can be essential for acute allergy flare-ups, but daily supplements give your dog’s body the tools it needs to handle allergens more effectively. By supporting skin health and immune balance year-round, you can help reduce flare-ups before they start - especially in Canada’s challenging seasonal climate.

Myth #7: Human Vitamins Are Fine for Dogs

It’s tempting, right? You already have a multivitamin in the cupboard - why not just give your dog a little too? 

Here’s why that’s a big nope: Dogs have completely different nutritional requirements than humans, and human supplements can cause serious health issues if used incorrectly. Even ingredients that seem harmless can be dangerous at the wrong dosage or in the wrong form.

Why Human Vitamins Can Be Risky for Dogs

• Dosage differences: Dogs are usually much smaller than humans, so even a “half dose” can be too much of certain vitamins or minerals.
• Toxic ingredients: Some human supplements contain xylitol, iron, vitamin D, or artificial sweeteners - all of which can be toxic to dogs.
• Wrong formulations: Human vitamins are designed for human metabolism, not canine absorption.
• Lack of oversight: Human products may not be tested for safety in animals, and dosing guidelines aren’t designed for pets.

Human Vitamins vs. Vet-Formulated Dog Supplements

Safe, Trusted Alternatives: NaturVet and Vet’s Best

When it comes to daily vitamins, joint support, or targeted wellness, vet-formulated supplements are the only safe way to go.

• NaturVet: NASC-certified, vet-formulated supplements for daily wellness, digestion, skin & coat, and joint support.
• Vet’s Best: Natural, plant-based ingredients developed by veterinarians to address specific health needs safely.

Choosing NASC-certified, vet-developed brands means you know exactly what’s in the product, how much to give, and that it’s been formulated with dogs in mind — not humans.

Key Takeaway

Human vitamins aren’t “close enough” - they’re a different category entirely. To keep your dog safe and healthy, stick with trusted, vet-formulated supplements from reputable brands like NaturVet and Vet’s Best.

How to Choose the Right Supplements for Your Pet 

Now that we’ve busted some of the most common myths, you might be wondering: "Okay, but how do I know which supplements are actually right for my dog?”

Here’s a simple framework Canadian pet parents can follow:

1. Start with your pet’s age, lifestyle & health goals

Puppy, adult, senior? Active or chill? Any health concerns like allergies, anxiety, or joint stiffness? These factors help narrow down what categories to focus on (e.g., joint support, digestion, calming, skin & coat).

2. Look for vet-formulated, NASC-certified products

This ensures you’re choosing supplements that meet high safety and quality standards. Both NaturVet and Vet’s Best are trusted brands backed by veterinarians and widely used across North America.

3. Read the ingredient list carefully

Avoid unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, and sweeteners. Look for evidence-based ingredients like glucosamine, probiotics, omegas, and calming amino acids.

4. Choose the right format for your pet

Powders, liquids, and soft chews all work — but some pets prefer certain formats. Chews are easiest for most Canadian pet parents to give daily, especially for busy households.

5. Be consistent

Supplements aren’t “one and done.” Most take 4–6 weeks of consistent use to show full benefits. Set reminders or use a subscription so you don’t run out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Supplements in Canada

Are pet supplements safe for daily use?

Yes — when you choose vet-formulated, NASC-certified brands, most supplements are safe and beneficial for daily use. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult your vet if your pet has medical conditions.

Can I combine different supplements?

In many cases, yes — for example, pairing a joint supplement with a probiotic or skin & coat formula is common. But avoid overlapping similar products (e.g., two different joint chews) to prevent over-supplementation.

How long before I see results?

Most pet parents notice improvements in 4–6 weeks with consistent use. Some products, like calming chews, can have more immediate effects, while joint or skin supplements may take a bit longer.

Where can I buy trusted supplements in Canada?

Right here at Brindle Pet Supplies. We carry a curated selection of NaturVet, Vet’s Best, and other trusted brands, all available online with fast Canadian shipping — so you can skip the U.S. duty fees and long waits.

Final Thoughts: Smarter Supplementing = Healthier, Happier Pets

When it comes to your dog’s health, knowledge is your best tool. By cutting through the myths and focusing on science-backed, vet-formulated supplements, you can make confident choices that support your pet’s long-term wellness.

Whether you’re targeting joint health, digestion, dental care, or calming support, trusted brands like NaturVet, Vet’s Best, and PetSmile make it easy to build a daily routine that works — for both you and your dog.

Explore our full Dog Health and Wellness Collection to find the perfect products for your pup. And if you’re ever unsure where to start, our team is happy to help you choose the right solutions for your dog’s unique needs.