Which Vitamins and Minerals Are an Important Part of Dog Nutrition?

MIHIJO Pawthority, 
dog and owner bonding

You care deeply about your dog’s health — and that means looking beyond food. While kibble and raw diets have their place, they don’t always check all the nutritional needs. You need nutrition supplements for dogs in Australia to fill the gap.

Your dog burns energy, fights off germs, and repairs cells just like you do. And just like you, your mate needs a solid balance of essential vitamins and minerals to do all that — and live a long, happy life.

In this guide, you’ll get the lowdown on which vitamins and minerals matter for dogs, why they matter, and how to make sure your dog’s not missing a beat.

Why do Vitamins and Minerals Matter in Dog Nutrition?

Dogs aren’t too different from us when it comes to needing the proper nutrients. Vitamins and minerals are the building blocks that support immune health and joint function apart from other things. Even if you’re feeding a good-quality diet, things like cooking, storage, and stress can impact nutrient levels.

The research found that even commercial dog foods often fail to deliver sufficient trace minerals over time. That’s why many Aussie pet owners turn to dog nutrition supplements in Australia to fill the gaps.

Let’s dive into the key nutrients your dog needs.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins: The Power Packers

These champs get stored in your dog’s fatty tissues and liver. This means they stick around for a bit, so getting the balance right is essential – you don’t want too much or too little!

1. Vitamin A

Think sharp eyesight, especially for those night-time backyard patrols! Vitamin A also supports healthy skin, a lustrous coat, muscle function, and nerve health. You’ll find it in things like liver, fish oil, and egg yolks. A deficiency can lead to skin issues or poor vision, while too much can be toxic, so it’s all about that sweet spot.

2. Vitamin D

The “sunshine vitamin” plays a vital role in helping your dog absorb and balance minerals like calcium and phosphorus. This is critical for strong bones and teeth. While dogs can get some vitamin D from sunlight, their fur makes it less efficient for them than for humans. Dietary sources can include fatty fish and egg yolks.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. It helps protect your dog’s cells from damage caused by free radicals – those nasty little molecules that can contribute to ageing and disease. Vitamin E is also crucial for a healthy immune system, muscle function, and reproductive health. You find it in plant oils, seeds, and green leafy veggies.

4. Vitamin K

Essential for blood clotting. If your dog ever sustains an injury, Vitamin K helps ensure their blood clots properly to prevent excessive bleeding. It also plays a role in bone health. Leafy greens are a good source.

Water-Soluble Vitamins: The Daily Essentials

These vitamins dissolve in water, meaning they aren’t stored in the body for long. Your dog needs a regular supply of these through their diet.

B Vitamins

  • Thiamine (B1): Crucial for energy metabolism and nerve function.
  • Riboflavin (B2) & Niacin (B3): B2 and 3 help enzymes function correctly, which is vital for healthy skin and energy.
  • Pantothenic Acid (B5): Involved in energy production and hormone formation.
  • Pyridoxine (B6): Needed for glucose generation, red blood cell function, nervous system function, and heaps more.
  • Biotin (B7): Famous for promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat, and vital for metabolism.
  • Folic Acid (B9): Essential for amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis. It’s super important for pregnant dogs.
  • Cobalamin (B12): Supports nerve function, brain health, and the formation of red blood cells.

B vitamins work together, so a good balance is key. They’re found in meats, dairy, and some grains.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Another important antioxidant, Vitamin C, also helps with collagen synthesis (good for joints and skin) and boosts the immune system. Now, here’s a fun fact: dogs can produce their Vitamin C in their liver. However, during times of stress, illness, or for very active dogs, their body might not make enough, and a little extra can be beneficial.

The Essential Minerals Every Dog Needs

Minerals are just as critical as vitamins, playing countless roles in your dog’s body. We can categorise them into macrominerals (needed in larger amounts) and microminerals or trace minerals (required in more minor, but still vital, amounts).

Macrominerals:

  • Calcium & Phosphorus: These two work hand-in-paw for strong bones and teeth. They also play roles in muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. The ratio between calcium and phosphorus is super important, especially for growing puppies.
  • Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions. It helps maintain muscle and nerve function, supports a steady heart rhythm, boosts the immune system, and keeps bones strong and healthy.
  • Potassium, Sodium, & Chloride: These are electrolytes. They help maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Maintaining this balance is key, especially if your dog is very active or experiencing digestive issues.

Microminerals (Trace Minerals):

  • Iron: Essential for carrying oxygen in the blood (part of haemoglobin). Without enough iron, your dog can become anaemic and lethargic.
  • Zinc: Supports immune function, wound healing, healthy skin and coat, and thyroid function. It’s a real all-rounder.
  • Copper: Helps with iron absorption, bone formation, and the development of connective tissue.
  • Manganese: Important for bone development, enzyme function, and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.
  • Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that works with Vitamin E to protect cells from damage. It is also crucial for thyroid function.
  • Iodine: Crucial for normal thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism.

Why the Best Multivitamins for Dogs Matter

You might think your dog gets everything they need from their food. But even top-shelf kibble can lose nutrients during processing. And if your dog’s older, pregnant, recovering from illness, or highly active — their needs go up.

That’s where the best multivitamins for dogs come in. These blends support everything from coat health to organ function. You’re not just covering the basics — you’re giving your dog what they need to thrive, not just survive.

Look for multivitamins that are Australian-made, third-party tested, and specifically formulated for dogs — not just repackaged human supplements.

Supporting Dog Wellness and Vitality Supplements Daily

If you’re looking for long-term well-being, daily dog wellness and vitality supplements are your best mate. These products combine key nutrients to support energy levels, immune strength, joint health, and mental sharpness.

Dogs face stress every day — from poor sleep to loud noises and environmental toxins. A well-formulated wellness supplement acts like a shield. You’ll notice more tail wags, better focus, and a dog that’s ready to play no matter the weather.

Choose a product that includes herbs like turmeric, green-lipped mussel, or ginseng alongside vitamins and minerals for the ultimate boost.

MIHIJO’s Dog Wellness + Vitality Supplement

When you’re looking for dog nutrition supplements in Australia, you want something that does more than just fill a gap. You want full-body support and ingredients you can trust. That’s where MIHIJO’s Wellness + Vitality supplement stands out.

Formulated for total wellness, this daily supplement supports energy, coat shine, immunity, joint health, and digestive function. It’s one of the most trusted options in the market for dog parents who want to keep their mate feeling their best every day.

Whether you’ve got a growing pup, a lazy senior, or a high-energy working dog, MIHIJO has something that fits. MIHIJO’S Wellness + Vitality supplement is one of the top-rated dog nutrition supplements Australia brands out there for a reason.

Your dog gives you their best every day. Return the favour with a daily dose of real health.

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