Supplement use is common in Dog Aging Project participants, especially among dogs with orthopedic conditions, and varies by life stage

June 16, 2026 - 7 minutes read

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_message message_box_color=”violet” icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-paw”]Posts in our Scientific Results series introduce recent papers published in the scientific literature by members of the Dog Aging Project research team. Follow this series to learn more about the scientific questions we’re asking, the kinds of results we’re getting, and what it all means for you and your dog.[/vc_message][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Author

Janice S. O’Brien

Who worked on this research?

Janice S. O’Brien
Dog Aging Project Consortium
M. Katherine Tolbert
Audrey Ruple

Where was it published?

American Journal of Veterinary Research (Issue: 01 Feb 2026)

 What is this paper about?

In this study, our team looked at supplement use in over 40,000 dogs from across the United States. Our goal was to find out what types of supplements dogs are taking, which dogs are getting them, and why.

What we did:

We collected information from dog owners who are part of the Dog Aging Project. Our team reviewed survey responses gathered between 2020 and 2022. Owners told us about the supplements their dogs take, their dogs’ age and health, and whether their dogs have conditions like arthritis or mobility problems.

This gave us a large, real-world view of how families use supplements to support their dogs’ health.

What did we find?

The study found that 52% of dogs are given at least one supplement,  so if you give your dog something, you’re definitely not alone.

Among dogs that take supplements, omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) and joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin are the most common. These are especially popular for dogs with orthopedic problems such as arthritis or stiffness.

We also found that a dog’s age, size, and health problems have a bigger influence on supplement use than the owner’s background. In other words, owners usually decide to give supplements based on their dog’s needs.

Finally, we saw that older dogs are more likely to receive supplements. As dogs age, owners are more likely to give supplements that support joints and mobility.

What do these results mean for me and my dog?

This study found that supplements are one of the most common parts of dog care, especially for older dogs or dogs dealing with joint pain. Think of it like how some people take vitamins to stay healthy; many pet owners are doing the same thing for their furry friends.

Supplements might help your dog feel better, but here’s the catch: not all of them actually work, and some could even cause harm if used incorrectly. Because so many pet owners are already using them, this study recommends that veterinarians have more open conversations with owners. That means talking about which supplements have real science behind them, which ones are basically just hype, and how to pick the safest option for your specific dog.

So if you’ve ever stood in the pet store staring at a wall of supplements and had no idea what to pick, you’re definitely not alone! Every dog is different, with their own health needs, size, and lifestyle. That’s why your veterinarian is your best resource. They can look at your dog’s specific situation and help you figure out whether a supplement is actually needed, and if so, which one is the right fit.

At the end of the day, this study gives us a clearer picture of how people really care for their dogs in everyday life. It’s a good reminder that being a responsible pet owner isn’t just about love; it’s also about making smart, informed choices. Your dog counts on you, and with the right information and a trusted vet by your side, you can make the best decisions for their health and happiness.

*Note: If you have concerns about your dog’s health, we encourage you to discuss these concerns with your primary care veterinarian. Suggestions for a treatment plan are best recommended by the veterinarian who has a relationship with your dog and understands their medical history.

Where can I learn more?

O’Brien, J. S., Dog Aging Project Consortium, Tolbert, M. K., & Ruple, A. (2026). Supplement use is common in Dog Aging Project participants, especially among dogs with orthopedic conditions, and varies by life stage. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 87(2), Article ajvr.25.06.0217, ajvr.25.06.0217, https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.25.06.0217

Abstract

Objective

To analyze the use of supplements reported by owners of dogs enrolled in the Dog Aging Project (DAP) to examine (1) the types of supplements being given to dogs within the DAP cohort and (2) the extent to which dogs diagnosed with specific conditions are being given supplements that are thought to improve those conditions.

Methods

Supplement use, demographic variables, and owner-reported health conditions of interest were extracted from DAP survey responses collected from January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2022, from dog owners. Prevalence estimates were calculated in this cross-sectional design using survey responses from owner survey at enrollment. Free-text analysis of “other” responses was completed using Atlas.TI software to categorize additional responses.

Results

Half of the dogs in this study (20,993 of 40,367 [52%]) received supplements. Of those receiving supplements, the most common supplements administered were omega-3 fatty acids (11,934 [57%]) and joint supplements (11,810 [56%]). Dog demographic characteristics were more strongly associated with differences in supplement use than owner demographic characteristics.

Conclusions

Supplement use is common among dogs in the DAP cohort, with approximately half of owners reporting supplement administration. Given the frequency of their administration, veterinary professionals should discuss supplement use with dog owners.

Clinical Relevance

Veterinary team professionals should consider spending more time discussing supplement use and efficacy with dog owners, especially for owners of senior pets.

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