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Half of the dogs in a massive nationwide study are getting supplements—yet few products face drug-level scrutiny before they hit pet store shelves. We sit down with researchers Drs. Janice O'Brien and Audrey Ruple from the Dog Aging Project to unpack what owners actually give, why they reach for these products, and how the evidence stacks up against bold marketing claims.

We dig into the big three—omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin, and probiotics—and map how usage shifts across life stages from puppyhood to senior years. You’ll hear why joint supplements surge with age, why probiotics peak early, and why omega-3s stay steady across all groups. We also explore reactive versus preventive habits, revealing that dogs perceived as less healthy are more likely to receive supplements, hinting at care that often starts after problems emerge.

From agility dogs to couch companions, we surface patterns you can act on, plus the surprising products owners report using, like bee pollen and dental powders. Our guests break down the current science: a 2022 meta-analysis showing no clear benefit for glucosamine and chondroitin, the context-dependent promise of omega-3s, and the strain-specific realities of probiotics. Along the way, we share practical scripts for better clinic conversations, from asking the right history questions to explaining evidence quality without jargon, and we set realistic expectations so supplements support—not replace—proven treatments.

If you’re a veterinarian, you’ll walk away with a clearer framework for counseling clients and documenting use. If you’re a pet owner, you’ll get simple steps to choose products wisely, track real outcomes, and talk with your veterinarian before you buy. Subscribe, share this episode with a fellow dog lover, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find evidence-based guidance on canine health.

AJVR article: https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.25.06.0217

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