Can You Give a Dog Human Vitamins?

Most human vitamins are not suitable for dogs. As carnivorous canines, dogs have very different nutritional needs than do humans, which are omnivorous primates. However, certain human supplements and vitamins can be given to dogs, after consulting a veterinarian about dosages.

  1. Multivitamins

    • Human multivitamins, including prenatal vitamins, should not be given to dogs. They contain too many vitamins in different quantities for an accurate canine dosage to be achieved. Multivitamins that include iron can cause damage to a dog's digestive system, kidneys and liver.

    Joint Supplements

    • Glucosamine and certain other human joint supplements may be fed to dogs, provided you choose a brand without additives. Compare the list of ingredients and the dosage per tablet to a joint supplement for dogs before buying. Always consult with a veterinarian before adding a supplement to your dog's diet.

    Probiotics

    • As an occasional remedy for diarrhea, human acidophilus capsules can be given to dogs. If prolonged daily supplementation is necessary, purchase a probiotic supplement formulated for dogs, or choose a commercial dog food that includes probiotics.

    Fish Oil

    • Fish oil supplements for humans are suitable for dogs, as long as they contain pure fish oil, preferably wild Alaskan salmon oil, with no additives. Talk to your vet in order to calculate the proper dosage. You may need to buy a jar of liquid oil, rather than capsules, in order to achieve a low enough dose for small dogs.

    Warning

    • Never give human prescription medication to dogs, unless it is prescribed to your dog by a veterinarian. Prescription medications, like antibiotics and pain relievers, may be safe for humans but harmful to dogs.

    Alternatives

    • Some vitamins can simply be added to your dog's diet through whole food sources. For example, probiotics are found in live-culture yogurt. Omega fatty acids are found in fish.