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Best Heart Health Suppliments for Dogs

Best Heart Health Supplements for Dogs

Best Heart Health Supplements for Dogs

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement.

Heart disease in dogs, including conditions like Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), can be influenced by both genetics and diet. While a balanced, meat-rich diet is the foundation of good cardiovascular health, supplements can offer added support—especially for breeds at risk or dogs on commercial kibble diets.

This guide covers the most effective, science-backed supplements that support your dog's heart, plus tips for choosing quality products.

1. Taurine

What it does: Taurine supports heart muscle strength, regulates heartbeat, and aids in calcium transport.

Who benefits: Breeds with genetic predisposition to DCM (Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Boxers), dogs on low-protein or grain-heavy diets, or dogs showing early signs of heart issues.

Suggested dosage: Varies by size. Most supplements range from 250 mg to 1000 mg per serving. Consult your vet.

Popular products:

  • Thorne Taurine (Human-Grade)
  • NaturVet Taurine for Dogs
  • Rogue Pet Science Healthy Heart

2. L-Carnitine

What it does: L-Carnitine plays a crucial role in fat metabolism, helping the heart muscle produce energy efficiently. It works synergistically with taurine.

Who benefits: Dogs with early-stage DCM, fatigue, weight issues, or senior dogs.

Suggested dosage: 50–100 mg per 10 lbs of body weight.

Trusted brands:

  • VetriScience Cardio Strength (includes L-carnitine, taurine, and CoQ10)
  • NOW Foods L-Carnitine (Human-Grade)

3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

What it does: CoQ10 helps generate cellular energy and has antioxidant properties that protect heart tissue.

Who benefits: Dogs with cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation, or those on long-term medication.

Suggested dosage: 1–3 mg per lb of body weight daily.

Recommended supplements:

  • Dr. Basko’s Ubiquinol CoQ10 for Dogs
  • Natural Dog Company Heart Health Chews

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)

What they do: These essential fatty acids reduce inflammation, regulate blood pressure, and improve lipid levels—all critical for heart health.

Who benefits: Dogs of all life stages. Especially effective in senior dogs or breeds prone to joint and heart disease.

Dosage: Look for products that provide around 1000 mg EPA/DHA per 20 lbs of body weight.

Top picks:

  • Nordic Naturals Pet Omega-3
  • Zesty Paws Omega Bites

5. Hawthorn Berry

What it does: Hawthorn is a herbal remedy that supports circulation, strengthens the heart muscle, and can mildly regulate blood pressure.

Use with caution: Should only be given under veterinary supervision, especially if your dog is on medication.

Herbal formulas:

  • Herbsmith Herbal Heart
  • The Raw Dog Herbal Heart

6. B Vitamins and Magnesium

What they do: These nutrients support nerve signaling and muscle contraction. Magnesium can help prevent arrhythmias, while B6 aids taurine metabolism.

Sources: Often included in multivitamin blends or found in high-quality diets with organ meats.

Choosing a Quality Supplement

When buying any supplement, especially for heart health:

  • Choose brands that third-party test for purity and potency
  • Verify dosing for dogs (not all human-grade products are appropriate)
  • Stick to well-known companies that specialize in pet health

When to Supplement

Consider supplementation if your dog:

  • Is diagnosed with heart disease or murmur
  • Belongs to a high-risk breed
  • Is fed a low-meat or high-legume diet
  • Is aging or slowing down

But don’t wait for a problem to start! As discussed in Part 3, preventive support through diet and gentle supplementation may reduce risks.

Support for Grain-Free Feeders

If you’ve chosen a grain-free diet, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong. Many grain-free diets contain more meat and fewer high-glycemic fillers than conventional kibble. The problem isn’t grain-free—it’s nutrient gaps, which can be filled with targeted supplementation.

Most commercial grain-included foods use wheat, corn, or rice. These provide bulk but little bioavailable nutrition. A grain-free diet supported with taurine, L-carnitine, and real food can be the healthiest option for many dogs.

Final Thoughts

Supplements aren’t magic—but they can make a powerful difference when combined with a healthy, balanced diet. Heart-healthy dogs are happier, more energetic, and stay active longer.

Always work with your vet to tailor the right mix of nutrition, monitoring, and supplementation for your dog’s individual needs. Your dog’s heart deserves it.

Read the Full DCM Series

Stay informed. Stay proactive. Keep that tail wagging!

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