- The Bark Byte
- Posts
- 💊 The Bark-Byte | What’s in the Bowl? – Episode 4 - Supplements, Superfoods & Fads: Do They Really Work?
💊 The Bark-Byte | What’s in the Bowl? – Episode 4 - Supplements, Superfoods & Fads: Do They Really Work?
Because not every “miracle ingredient” deserves a spot in your pet’s bowl.
Mario Gutierrez
October 22, 2025
In partnership with
Table of Contents
From Fish Oil to Fairy Dust: Sorting Science from Hype 🧪🐕
Every few months, a new pet “superfood” or supplement promises shinier coats, stronger joints, and longer lives. From CBD treats to turmeric chews, it’s hard to know what’s real and what’s marketing magic. So today, we dig into the science — not the slogans — and reveal which trends actually earn their spot in your pet’s diet.
1. Fish Oil: Omega-3s That Actually Deliver 🐟
Multiple studies — including a 2018 report in The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) — confirm that EPA and DHA from fish oil can reduce inflammation, improve joint health, and support brain and heart function in dogs and cats.
✅ Best for: pets with arthritis, itchy skin, or dull coats.
⚠️ Watch for: dosage! Too much can thin blood. Choose purified oils labeled for pets to avoid heavy metal contamination.
2. Probiotics: Gut Health = Whole Health 🦠
According to Frontiers in Veterinary Science (2023), probiotics help balance gut microbiota, which supports immune function and nutrient absorption.
✅ Evidence shows: probiotics can reduce diarrhea, support digestion, and even help with stress.
🐾 Tip: Look for strains like Enterococcus faecium or Lactobacillus acidophilus. And yes — refrigeration matters for live cultures!
3. Glucosamine & Chondroitin: Joint Care Classics 🦴
Backed by a 2017 study in Veterinary Record, dogs with osteoarthritis showed improved mobility after consistent use of glucosamine/chondroitin blends.
✅ Best for: senior dogs, large breeds, or active pets prone to joint wear.
📅 Pro Tip: It takes 4–6 weeks to see results, so patience pays off.
4. CBD: Promise Meets Caution 🌿
CBD is booming, but research is still catching up. A Cornell University study (2018) found measurable pain reduction in arthritic dogs after CBD oil use, but long-term safety data is limited.
⚠️ Important: only use pet-formulated CBD with lab testing. Never human products (they may contain xylitol or THC).
5. “Superfoods”: Trendy Doesn’t Always Mean Necessary 🥦
Kale, blueberries, turmeric, chia, and coconut oil often appear in boutique foods — but according to Tufts Cummings Veterinary Nutrition Clinic, they’re only beneficial when part of a balanced diet, not miracle cures.
✅ Worth adding: blueberries (antioxidants), pumpkin (fiber), sardines (omega-3s).
🚫 Overhyped: coconut oil (limited absorption benefits), turmeric (needs pepper or fat for effect), and anything labeled “detox.”
🔑 Key Takeaways:
✔️Omega-3s, probiotics, and glucosamine have strong scientific backing.
✔️CBD shows promise but still lacks long-term data.
✔️“Superfoods” help only when part of a balanced diet — not as magic bullets.
✔️Always check with your vet before starting any supplement, especially if your pet takes medication.
🐾🐾Coming up next in our What’s in the Bowl? finale:
“Feeding for Life Stages: Puppies, Adults & Seniors.”
Because what works for a playful pup might not suit a wise old whisker.
A word from our Sponsor ⭐️
🏔️ Traditional Craftsmanship: Our chews are made using an ancient Nepalese method, passed down through generations. This time-honored process naturally preserves the yak cheese, ensuring a long-lasting and nutritious treat for your dog.
🧀 100% Yak Cheese: Our chews contain only 100% yak cheese—no cow milk, fillers, or additives. Yak milk is naturally richer in nutrients than cow milk, providing unique health benefits for your dog, including essential vitamins and minerals.
💪 Vitamins & Nutrients: Packed with protein and calcium, these chews promote strong muscles, bones, and teeth, helping your dog stay healthy and active.
🐾 Easily Digested: Gentle on your dog's stomach, yak cheese is easily digested, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.
🐕 Long Lasting: Designed to keep your dog engaged, these chews are durable and long-lasting, offering hours of chewing enjoyment.
Learn Business Buying & Scaling In 3 Days
NOVEMBER 2-4 | AUSTIN, TX
“Almost no one in the history of the Forbes list has gotten there with a salary. You get rich by owning things.” –Sam Altman
At Main Street Over Wall Street 2025, you’ll learn the exact playbook we’ve used to help thousands of “normal” people find, fund, negotiate, and buy profitable businesses that cash flow.
Tactical business buying training and clarity
Relationships with business owners, investors, and skilled operators
Billionaire mental frameworks for unlocking capital and taking calculated risk
The best event parties you’ve ever been to
Use code BHP500 to save $500 on your ticket today (this event WILL sell out).
Click here to get your ticket, see the speaker list, schedule, and more.
Become an email marketing GURU.
Join us for the world’s largest FREE & VIRTUAL email marketing conference.
Two full days of email marketing tips & trends, famous keynote speakers (Nicole Kidman!), DJ’s, dance contests & networking opportunities.
Here are the details:
100% Free
25,000+ Marketers
November 6th & 7th
Don’t miss out! Spots are LIMITED!
I want in! (US attendees only!)
|
🦴 Daily Bite 🦴
Thanks For Reading, and Have A Great Week!