Dogs do need a variety of vitamins, which work in concert with other vitamins and nutrients to give animals the proper nourishment. It is important to provide balanced amounts of vitamins and other nutrients in complete diets. A good quality dog food should already have the proper balance of essentials in it. It is not necessary to add supplements to a dogs diet. Too much of any given vitamin can be detrimental to your dogs health. In order to understand vitamins, you must understand what they are and how they work.

1. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the fat cells of the body. These are vitamins such as Vitamins A, D, K, and E. These vitamins are consumed and stored in the fat cells. Then they are gradually released into the body and processed as needed. They do not have to be consumed in large amounts.
2. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and must be consumed daily. They basically pass through the body and with the exception of what is absorbed in to the system as it passes through; none of these vitamins remain in the body. Once again though, you should not give extra vitamins to your dog as they are getting all the nourishment they need if you are giving them a well balanced nutritional brand of dog food.
3. You can also log on to the web sites that are found on the labels of the bags and cans of dog food you purchase. Practically all companies now have a web site to offer general information and answer questions customers and pet owners might have.

Take the time to select a brand of food that has all the essential vitamins and nutrients in it and feed your pet as recommended.