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Man’s best friend, right? They’re loyal, compassionate, and usually right by our side every step of the day. Our four-legged best friends might not be able to talk, yet they make sure you know how they feel (most of the time) – they might get hunger confused with boredom, but hey, can you blame them?
Part of our devotion to our dogs is ensuring they live a long, happy life. Perhaps part of the motive is selfish – but it’s only motivated by your love for them. Just like humans, dogs need to maintain strong muscles so they can perform the basic functions of life. Also, similar to humans, dogs can maintain healthy muscle mass through diet, exercise, and supplements. The key is finding just the right balance, which you may want to work with your veterinarian to customize. Puppies and dogs can take muscle supplements, eat foods that promote muscle development, and exercise to promote strong muscles.
Looking for a muscle builder for dogs? You’re in the right spot. Here’s what you should know about muscle supplements for dogs.
If your dog needs to lose weight instead of gain it, check out the best dog weight loss supplements.
Best Muscle Building Supplements for Dogs
1. MYOS Canine Muscle Formula
This product is an all-natural and vet-recommended powder that’s designed to improve dog muscle health. The single ingredient is fortetropin, which is a proteolipid complex that comes from a fertilized egg yolk. It helps build muscles while also improving vitality and reducing the risk of muscle loss.
With better muscle health, your dog may also recover faster from injuries and illnesses. Dogs who take it may also experience improved mobility, so senior dogs may become more active. The easiest way to serve this supplement is to scoop the proper dosage and mix it with your dog’s food. Many dogs love the powder’s flavor, so it could make them more interested in their food.
Pros
Made with one natural ingredient
Builds muscle and reduces muscles loss
Helps dogs recover faster
Improves mobility
Vet-recommended
Cons
May cause digestive issues for some dogs
Related: 11 Best Urinary, Kidney, & Bladder Supplements for Dogs
2. Muscle Bully Protein Supplement
If you want your dog to build hard, lean muscle, then the Muscle Bully protein supplement could be an excellent solution. It’s a flavorless powder supplement that you can sprinkle onto your dog’s food. It contains the vitamins and minerals needed for your dog’s muscle growth, support, and definition. As a result, your dog’s size and mass will likely increase when on this supplement.
This supplement is packed with amino acids to give your dog a full health boost. The formula can improve their strength, energy, stamina, and power. It’s designed specifically for bully breeds like American Bulldogs and American Staffordshire Terriers, but it’s not limited to those breeds only. This product is most effective for dogs who are underweight and malnourished because it can quickly help them regain strength.
Pros
Builds hard, lean muscles
Helps underweight dogs regain strength quickly
Improves energy, stamina, and power
Packed with essential amino acids
Cons
May receive the wrong product
3. Bully Max 2-in-1 Puppy Chews for Immunity and Growth
Bully Max specializes in making products that keep dogs strong, active, and healthy. These soft chews focus specifically on the development of puppies to improve the growth, immunity, and muscle building of young dogs. The supplements are turkey-flavored, so most puppies will gobble them up as if they’re treats.
Since they’re rich in protein, these supplements are excellent for keeping puppies strong and energetic. These supplements can even support the growth of strong bones and improve joint issues. The chews are easily digestible and easy to serve, so they’re a great choice for new puppy parents, especially if the puppies are large breeds.
Pros
Supports puppy growth
Delicious turkey flavor
Supports the immune system
Includes probiotics
Easy to chew and digest
Cons
Not ideal for adult dogs
4. Lexelium Weight Gainer Supplement
This growth-boosting powder is beef-flavored, so most dogs will happily gobble it up when it’s sprinkled on their food. It can help dogs gain weight, build muscle, and have a better appetite. It’s ideal for helping underweight or malnourished dogs quickly gain weight. It can also help working dogs maintain healthy muscles.
High protein, calcium, and zinc are some of the key components of this product to promote growth and strength. It’s vet-formulated using natural ingredients sourced in the United States. The human-grade, muscle-building ingredients work for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and even farm animals.
Pros
Beef-flavored powder
Vet-formulated
Increases weight and builds muscle
Stimulates an appetite
High in protein, calcium, and zinc
Cons
May cause increased thirst
5. Bully Max Performance Muscle Building Tablets
Bully Max is known for its high-protein dog food, but the company also makes tablets to add to your pup’s diet. These muscle-building supplements are great for calorie deficiency in your pet if they’re getting weaker or slower. The high amount of protein will ensure that your dog stays fit and healthy. These tablets help with the buildup of new, strong muscles and make your dog active and playful even in their senior years.
These supplements work efficiently for dogs of all ages. Additionally, the formula uses only real and high-quality meat, making it rich in protein. It also contains nine essential aminos. Thus, your dog will appear more muscular and robust if they take these supplements regularly. This product is made in the USA following strict safety standards. You may need to hide the tablets in food or pill pockets to get dogs to take them.
Pros
Suitable for all ages
Contains real meat
Rich in protein and calories
9 essential aminos
Cons
Some dogs may not like the flavor
6. MBF Supplements Bully Muscle Builder
This Bully Protein Powder is a powerful muscle builder that you can sprinkle on your dog’s food to serve. Most dogs will gobble it up without hesitation. All the flavors in the formula are natural to ensure that everything in it is safe for your dog and easy for them to digest. 77% of this supplement is protein so that it maximizes muscle gain and builds pure lean muscles.
Even though the formula is designed for Bully breeds, dogs of all ages and breeds can benefit from this product. It’s a vet-approved supplement that’s made in the USA following strict safety requirements.
Pros
77% protein
Builds pure lean muscles
Natural ingredients
Works for all breeds and ages
Cons
Some dogs dislike the flavor
7. Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer
The Buddy & Lola Dog Weight Gainer not only increases the mass and size of dogs but also improves the endurance, recovery, and performance of their muscles. It builds and strengthens muscles for all breeds while also maximizing energy and protein intake. It can even make a dog’s skin and coat much healthier.
It’s recommended for underweight dogs because they can gain weight quickly. It can benefit picky dogs as well because the powder has a maple bacon flavor. The formula is packed with amino acids for a full health boost. The packaging includes a scoop inside to make it easy to pour onto your dog’s food.
Pros
Improves the endurance, recovery, and performance of muscles
Promotes healthy skin and coat
Packed with amino acids
Maximizes energy and protein intake
Maple bacon flavor
Cons
Some dogs dislike the flavor
Related: The 10 Best Calming Supplements for Dogs
Factors To Consider Before Buying
Purpose
Muscle building supplements may help your pet grow strong, healthy muscles and improve their joints. However, you shouldn’t give these supplements unless necessary. With a healthy and high-protein diet, you may be able to build strong muscles in your dog without an added supplement.
Yet, if your dog is growing weak even with a healthy diet, then you may need to try these supplements. Use these supplements if you intend to build muscles, stamina, and strength. They may also improve the immune system and increase activity levels. If you think your dog might need one of these supplements, consult your vet.
Deficiency
If your pet is having some sort of nutritional deficiency then these supplements may help overcome that. You should get supplements that include those nutrients and target those specific deficiencies. More nutrients can help make your dog’s muscles stronger.
Ingredients
Some great ingredients in muscle building supplements are protein, creatine, glutamine, and MSM. Some may also include glucosamine and chondroitin to help with joints. Before purchasing supplements for your dog, check the ingredient list to make sure it includes beneficial items. Natural ingredients are always a plus. Stay away from preservatives, soy, or wheat. Additionally, if your pet has allergies, you should make sure the product is free of those items.
FAQs About Muscle Building Supplements for Dogs
1. What is the best supplement for muscle growth for dogs?
As a pet owner, the amount of choices we have can be overwhelming. The supplement that’s best for your dog can depend on their needs. While the goal may be to build muscle, the situation may not be the same amongst all dogs. Check out our list of best muscle-building supplements for dogs for the rundown on some of the best-sellers.
2. What can I give my dog to strengthen his muscles?
You may or may not be surprised to learn how similar dogs truly are to humans. A healthy diet that helps strengthen muscles will likely include pure proteins such as chicken, beef, and fish. Healthy fats can also help strengthen muscles while providing other benefits such as a healthy coat and hydrated skin. Healthy fats for dogs include coconut oil and fish oil. While your dog craves plenty of protein, they also crave vitamins. Balance your dog’s diet with dark, leafy greens or balanced supplements.
3. What is the best protein for dogs to build muscle?
One of the best proteins to help dogs build muscle is beef. Beef contains essential fats that can fill your dog up faster and boost their energy longer. It can also help your dog build muscle mass while keeping their coat soft and shiny.
From the dog food you feed to treats or toys such as a bully stick, there are many ways to get more beef in your dog’s life. When shopping for foods and treats, check the ingredients and where they are sourced. Additionally, pay attention to where products are made. While dogs may seem tough, and they are, their bodies are just as sensitive as ours. Dogs can get some of the same life-threatening illnesses as humans, such as cancer. Sadly, we are seeing more of this in recent years. Be mindful of what you are feeding your dog.
4. What food builds muscle in dogs?
Pure foods that are made primarily with meats, such as chicken, fish, and beef, can help dogs build muscle. Additionally, there are supplements available to help dogs build muscle faster. Carefully read the ingredients in dog food and the nutritional value. If you choose to make your own dog food, consult a veterinarian or professional to ensure it delivers the dog plenty of nutritional value.
5. How can I bulk up my dog naturally?
While health for humans and dogs can get complex, the basis of it is rather simple – diet and exercise. If your dog is eating a balanced diet they enjoy but looking scrawny, they might need more exercise. Dog-friendly exercises that can help bulk up muscles include playing fetch, swimming, tug of war, stability balls, and more. Find what your dog enjoys and use this time to build muscle while bonding with them. With an increase in activity, consider the best cardio supplement for dogs.
If you are working with limited space and time, you may need to get creative. Consider a weighted fetch toy that can help your dog exercise harder in a shorter amount of time and or a doggy or baby swimming pool. Setting aside some time daily to exercise your dog can also present you with the opportunity to unplug and soak in some vitamin D.
6. How can I bulk up my dog fast?
Just like humans, change takes time regarding your dog’s body. To head in the right direction, get them on a food they love that’s high in protein and fat. You can also toss them some high-fat treats before bed or peanut butter. Topping their food with sweet potatoes or canned pumpkin can also help. You may want to incorporate supplements as well. Work with your veterinarian to customize a diet for your dog.
7. How can I strengthen my dog’s weak back legs?
Weakened back legs can be the result of a medical condition or illness or a sign of weakness. If your dog’s back end is weakening, you should consult your veterinarian. If appropriate, you can start with light walks or short bursts of low-impact exercise. Swimming can also be a therapeutic exercise for dogs to help build muscle.
8. How do you bulk up a skinny dog?
First, you might want to dial in what’s causing your dog to be skinny. While it could be a diet lacking in protein, it could be several other things too. Remember, your dog can’t talk to you and tell you what their concerns are. Before taking extreme actions, you should consult your veterinarian. Then, as deemed appropriate, you can incorporate supplements, protein-packed food and treats, and exercise into their daily routine.
9. What happens if a dog has too much protein?
When we talk about diets for dogs or humans, balance is a buzzword – and for good reason. There is such a thing as too much protein for a dog. Too much protein can cause strain on kidneys, more nitrogen in urine, and potentially smelly breath. If your dog has smelly breath, you may want to have it checked out by your veterinarian. In the meantime, though, check out the best brushy sticks for dogs. Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions in dogs seen by veterinarians.
For dogs that have medical conditions, too much protein can have extensive side effects. Dogs with too much protein intake can also experience behavior issues such as anxiety, restlessness, or aggression.
Again, balance is important. Work with your veterinarian to understand your dog’s needs.
10. Are Muscle Supplements Good For Dogs?
Yes, muscle supplements are an excellent choice when your pet is lacking their daily nutrients through meals. These supplements can be in a powder or tablet form. They’re great for maintaining joint health in senior dogs. They’re also an excellent choice for weak or sick dogs to help them grow stronger. However, you should consult your vet before starting any supplement.
11. What Do Muscle Building Supplements Do?
A muscle building supplement is quite popular among pet parents. It’s a nutritional supplement that contains a variety of vital minerals and vitamins necessary for strong bones and muscles. Muscle building supplements help your dog gain weight and grow stronger. Some supplements can help your pet’s immune system and give them more energy too.
12. How Can I Make My Weak Dog Stronger?
Giving your pet a healthy and complete diet is the first step to making them stronger. If your pet lacks energy and grows weaker, they might not be getting enough nutrients in their body. To cure that, you should include enough protein in their meals and offer them small meals frequently. Consider adding a muscle building supplement if their food alone isn’t helping.
13. Are Muscle Building Supplements Only for Bully Breeds?
No, muscle building supplements can work for any dog breed that needs to gain weight and strength. They’re typically advertised for Bully breeds because those breeds are generally more muscular than the average dog.
14. Is 30% protein too high for dogs?
Dogs are protein-based, but that does not mean they just need protein. While protein is an important part of their diet and overall health, it needs to align with other parts of their diet. 30% protein should not be too high for a dog, but you should check with your veterinarian. Additionally, if your dog has a disease such as kidney or liver disease, less protein may be recommended. For the best liver support supplement, shop iHeartDogs today. Unleash the best of everything for dogs at iHeartDogs. With every purchase, you can feed shelter dogs, too. When we say we love dogs, we mean it.
Takeaway
Everyone wants a strong, youthful dog, and healthy muscles are the way to achieve that. Some dog breeds are genetically small, but any dog can benefit from more muscles if they’re growing weak or recovering from a sickness. In those cases, muscle building supplements for dogs are great resources.
These supplements will give your pup healthy joints, robust muscles, and good overall health. Additionally, they will do wonders for your dog’s immune system and digestive system. So, these unique supplements could extend your dog’s life and make them more lively. However, like with any new supplement, you should consult your vet before serving it to your dog.
Related: The 13 Best Heart Supplements for Dogs
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