Explained With Dr. Klos: What Should I Look for in a Good Pet Supplement?
Vet Reviewed by Dr. Jacob Klos, DVM
With so many pet supplements on the market, it can be hard to know what actually works—and what’s just expensive filler. In this short video, Dr. Jacob Klos, DVM, walks through the top three things he looks for in a high-quality pet supplement.
If you're shopping for joint support, gut health, skin relief, or overall wellness, this advice will help you choose products that are safe, effective, and worth your money.
1. Ingredient Quality and Dosage
The first thing Dr. Klos recommends is to flip the bottle and check the label. A good supplement will clearly list the ingredients and how much of each one is included—measured in milligrams (mg).
For example, joint supplements with glucosamine should contain at least 400mg per dose. If no amounts are listed, or if it’s buried in a “proprietary blend,” that’s a red flag.
2. No Fillers or Dyes
Watch out for unnecessary additives. Low-quality supplements often include fillers, artificial dyes, or vague ingredients that don’t serve a purpose. A trustworthy company will be transparent about everything that’s inside—and why it’s included.
3. Palatability Matters
Even the best ingredients won’t help if your dog won’t eat them. Since most supplements need to be given consistently for 4–8 weeks to take effect, it’s important that they taste good and are easy to give.
Chews that double as a treat are ideal—especially if your dog is picky or needs daily support long term.
4. Sourcing and Quality Control
The final factor is where ingredients come from. For example, is the turmeric organic? Is the glucosamine sourced from shellfish or synthetic? Do they disclose how the product is tested or where it’s manufactured?
Transparency is key. The best pet supplement brands aren’t afraid to tell you exactly what’s in their product—and where it comes from.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, a supplement is only as good as its label. Look for clear dosages, clean ingredient lists, and companies that are proud to tell you what they’re made of. Your dog’s health is worth it.
Watch the full video below to hear directly from Dr. Klos.
