Vitamin A for Dogs - Why it Matters and How to Add it Safely

Behind every shiny coat, there is Vitamin A - 'Paw'verb.

Find, 'proverb' apart, Vitamin A plays a key role in dog's health. From shiny coat to healthy immune system, the role of Vitamin A is vital.

In this post, let's explore:

  • Why dogs need Vitamin A
  • Vitamin A rich foods
  • How to add Vitamin A safely for dogs
  • Recommended dosages and vet advice
Why is Vitamin A Important for Dogs?

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that gets stored in your dog's body fat. 

Let's see how Vitamin A helps your dog:
  • Promotes skin and coat health
  • Improves vision, especially night vision
  • Boosts immunity
  • Supports growth and cell regeneration 
  • Helps with reproduction
Deficiency of Vitamin A may lead to:
  • Dry, flaky skin
  • Dull coat
  • Poor night vision
  • Low immunity levels
  • Stunted growth in puppies
Kindly check the video on YouTube.


Best Sources of Vitamin A for Dogs
  • Carrots
  • Pumpkin
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Boiled egg
  • Liver (Beef, chicken)
  • Cod liver oil
  • Dairy (Yogurt, paneer)
All foods should be cooked well before serving dogs. Dairy should be served in small quantities and also only if the dog is lactose-tolerant. 

Carrots and pumpkin can be part of daily meals as safe, natural beta-carotene sources.

Being a rich source, liver can be given only once a week to prevent overdosing of Vitamin A.

Eggs can be fed in moderation.

Always check the label if you are feeding commercial dog food to your pet to avoid over-supplementing.

Safe Ways to Add Vitamin A to Home-Cooked Diet

Some of the safe ways to add Vitamin A to home-cooked food for dogs:
  • Mix cooked carrots with rice or oats
  • Add a teaspoon of plain pumpkin puree to dog meals.
  • Feed boiled eggs.
  • Feed a small piece of liver once a week.
  • Include cooked spinach in your dog's diet twice a week.
Never overfeed any single ingredient.

Moderation is key. Too much of Vitamin A can be harmful. Opting for natural food sources in moderate amounts will help to strike a perfect balance. 

Before serving any new food to your pet, kindly consult with your veterinarian and follow their instructions.

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