As breeders, the health of our dogs is at the core of our work. Whether our focus is on conformation, performance, or simply creating the next generation of healthy, well-balanced animals, we make critical decisions every day that affect the long-term vitality of our dogs. One of the most significant choices involves the vitamins and supplements we give to support health and development. While synthetic vitamins may offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, they are often incomplete, isolated compounds that lack the complexity of their natural counterparts. The impact of these isolated nutrients on the body can be starkly different from the effects of vitamins obtained from whole food sources. Drawing from the insights of leading experts like Marina Zacharias, Juliette de Bairacli Levy, and Rita Hogan, this article delves into why natural vitamins are superior for breeding dogs and offers practical tips to ensure optimal nutrition.

Vitamin C for Dogs: Beyond Ascorbic Acid

When discussing vitamin supplementation for dogs, many breeders overlook vitamin C because dogs can synthesize it themselves. However, stress, illness, and environmental factors can deplete their natural stores of vitamin C, making supplementation a useful tool in times of need. But not all vitamin C supplements are created equal. Most commercial vitamin C products contain ascorbic acid, which is only one component of the complete vitamin C complex.

Ascorbic acid, commonly derived from corn glucose, is an isolated, synthetic fraction of vitamin C. While it’s marketed as “vitamin C,” it lacks the co-factors—like bioflavonoids, rutin, and other enzymes—that make the natural vitamin C complex effective in the body. Marina Zacharias, a proponent of whole food nutrition, has consistently warned against relying on synthetic ascorbic acid. She notes that synthetic versions can act more like drugs than nutrients, often disrupting the body’s natural balance. In dogs, synthetic ascorbic acid has been linked to kidney stones, mineral imbalances, and even rebound scurvy when high doses are discontinued. This is particularly concerning for breeders who rely on vitamin C supplementation to help dogs recover from the stress of showing or breeding.

Instead, Zacharias advises breeders to turn to natural, whole food sources of vitamin C, such as acerola cherries, rose hips, and camu camu. These sources provide the complete vitamin C complex, including all the necessary co-factors, which work together to boost the immune system, improve tissue health, and reduce oxidative stress. For breeders who want to support their dogs’ health during periods of stress or illness, natural sources of vitamin C are far more effective and safer than their synthetic counterparts.

Historical Evidence: The Dangers of Synthetic Vitamins

The dangers of synthetic vitamins have been known for decades, with numerous studies highlighting the stark differences between animals fed natural versus synthetic vitamins. One of the most notable studies from the 1940s involved silver foxes, a breed valued for their fur. The foxes were divided into two groups—one fed natural B vitamins, and the other fed synthetic B vitamins. The results were dramatic: the foxes on synthetic vitamins exhibited poor fur quality, stunted growth, and higher mortality rates, while the foxes on natural vitamins thrived.

As breeders, we understand the importance of coat quality, growth, and overall vitality in our animals. Synthetic vitamins, while seemingly helpful, can compromise these traits over time. Juliette de Bairacli Levy, a pioneering figure in natural animal care, strongly advocated against the use of synthetic vitamins, warning that they disrupt the body’s natural healing processes. She believed that vitamins should be sourced from whole foods and natural environments, where they exist in their complete form with all their co-factors intact. Levy’s breeding programs, which emphasized raw diets rich in natural vitamins, consistently produced strong, healthy dogs with excellent immune systems, longevity, and vitality. Her philosophy of natural rearing remains highly relevant today and provides valuable guidance for breeders looking to optimize their animals’ health without relying on synthetic supplements.

Synthetic Vitamins and Reproductive Health: A Hidden Risk

For breeders, reproductive health is paramount, and the vitamins we give our dogs can have a profound effect on fertility, gestation, and the health of future generations. A lesser-known but crucial study from 1939 found that pigs fed synthetic B vitamins produced sterile offspring, while pigs given natural B vitamins had healthy, fertile litters. This study highlights the long-term risks that synthetic vitamins can pose to reproductive health—a risk that should not be overlooked by breeders.

Juliette de Bairacli Levy’s work with dogs showed similar results. She found that breeding females who received natural vitamins from whole foods, such as raw liver and eggs, had stronger pregnancies and healthier puppies. Levy was a staunch advocate for the use of liver as a key part of her dogs’ diets, noting its richness in vitamin A, vitamin B, and other essential nutrients that promote reproductive health and overall vitality. In her experience, feeding nutrient-dense whole foods not only supported fertility but also helped prevent common health problems in both the mother and her puppies.

For modern breeders, the lesson is clear: synthetic vitamins, especially during pregnancy, can have unintended and sometimes harmful consequences. Natural vitamins, on the other hand, provide the body with everything it needs to support healthy reproduction. Rita Hogan, a canine herbalist, echoes these sentiments, advising breeders to avoid synthetic prenatal vitamins and instead focus on herbs and whole foods that naturally support reproductive health. Her recommendations include red raspberry leaf for its ability to balance hormones and strengthen the uterus, nettle leaf for its rich mineral content, and spirulina for its high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

The Risks of Synthetic Vitamin A: Protecting Future Generations

Vitamin A is essential for canine health, particularly for breeding females and developing puppies. However, not all vitamin A is created equal. Synthetic vitamin A, commonly found in commercial dog foods and supplements, has been linked to a range of health problems. A 1995 study involving over 22,000 pregnant women found that synthetic vitamin A increased the risk of birth defects by 240% at a dose of 10,000 IU per day, and by 400% at 20,000 IU per day. In contrast, natural sources of vitamin A, such as liver, posed no such risks, even when consumed in high amounts.

This study highlights a critical point for breeders: synthetic vitamin A can pose significant risks to pregnant bitches and their litters, while natural vitamin A is not only safe but beneficial. Natural sources of vitamin A, such as raw liver or cod liver oil, provide the nutrient in a form that the body can easily absorb and utilize, without the toxic effects associated with synthetic versions. Juliette de Bairacli Levy often emphasized the importance of feeding liver to breeding females, noting that it supports vision, immune function, and proper fetal development. For breeders looking to support their dogs’ health during pregnancy, natural vitamin A is a far safer and more effective option than synthetic supplements.

Practical Tips for Breeders: How to Ensure Optimal Vitamin Intake Naturally

As breeders, we have a responsibility to provide the best possible nutrition for our dogs. Here are some practical tips to ensure that your dogs are receiving the vitamins they need from natural sources, without the risks associated with synthetic supplements:

1.  Feed a Raw, Whole Food Diet: Natural vitamins are best absorbed when they come from whole, raw foods. Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like raw liver, eggs, sardines, leafy greens, and other vegetables into your dogs’ diets. These foods are rich in naturally occurring vitamins and provide the complete nutrient profiles that synthetic supplements lack.
2.  Choose Whole Food-Based Supplements: If supplementation is necessary, opt for whole food-based supplements rather than synthetic ones. Many reputable brands now offer supplements made from real ingredients, such as organ meats, fruits, and vegetables, ensuring that the vitamins are delivered in their complete form with all their necessary co-factors.
3.  Herbal Support for Pregnancy: To support reproductive health, consider using natural herbs like red raspberry leaf and nettle leaf. These herbs not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also help balance hormones and support the reproductive system.
4.  Natural Sources of Vitamin A for Pregnant Bitches: Avoid synthetic vitamin A supplements and instead provide natural sources like raw liver or cod liver oil. These foods are rich in bioavailable vitamin A, which supports fetal development and the overall health of the mother.
5.  Ensure Adequate Sunlight for Vitamin D: Dogs synthesize vitamin D naturally from sunlight, so ensure that your dogs get plenty of outdoor time. If sunlight exposure is limited, consider adding natural food sources of vitamin D, such as raw eggs, fatty fish, and liver, to their diet.
6.  Use Whole Food Sources of Vitamin C During Stressful Times: When your dogs are under stress or recovering from illness, supplement their diets with natural sources of vitamin C like acerola cherries, rose hips, or camu camu. These whole food sources provide the complete vitamin C complex, which is far more effective than synthetic ascorbic acid.
 
7.  Watch for Deficiency Symptoms: Keep an eye out for signs of vitamin deficiencies, such as poor coat quality, low energy, or reproductive issues. Address deficiencies by adjusting the diet to include more whole foods, rather than turning to synthetic supplements for a quick fix.

Conclusion: The Long-Term Benefits of Natural Vitamins for Breeding Programs

As breeders, the health and vitality of our dogs depend on the choices we make. By opting for natural, whole food-based vitamins, we provide our dogs with the nutrients they need to thrive—not just survive. Synthetic vitamins may offer short-term convenience, but they cannot replicate the complex, synergistic benefits that come from whole food nutrients. By following the insights of experts like Marina Zacharias, Juliette de Bairacli Levy, and Rita Hogan, we can ensure that our breeding programs

are built on a foundation of optimal health, longevity, and vitality, without the risks associated with synthetic vitamins. The dogs we raise today will be the progenitors of future generations, and their health outcomes reflect the decisions we make right now. Whether it’s supporting a bitch through pregnancy, ensuring a stud’s fertility, or preparing a show dog for competition, the role of natural nutrition and vitamins cannot be overstated.

The Long-Term Impact on Genetic Vitality

It’s important to recognize that the choices we make concerning our dogs’ nutrition do not just affect them in isolation. Poor nutrition can have generational consequences, weakening a breeding line over time. Juliette de Bairacli Levy was one of the first to emphasize this principle in her natural rearing practices. She observed that dogs fed raw, whole food diets not only had fewer health problems during their lifetime but also produced stronger, more resilient offspring. By feeding real, natural foods and avoiding synthetic interventions, breeders can strengthen their genetic lines, reducing susceptibility to common illnesses and improving overall vitality.

Rita Hogan echoes these sentiments in her approach to canine herbalism. She advises breeders to focus on building a foundation of wellness through natural remedies and nutrient-rich foods. By addressing health proactively, rather than reactively, breeders can foster stronger immune systems and better adaptability in their dogs. Hogan points out that a well-nourished body is less prone to the inflammatory conditions and chronic diseases that have become all too common in today’s canine populations. The future of breeding lies in not only selecting the best genetic traits but also ensuring those genes are expressed through the proper nutritional support.

Reducing the Risk of Common Health Issues

One of the greatest challenges breeders face is the prevalence of common health issues such as autoimmune disorders, joint problems, and skin conditions. Many of these problems can be linked back to nutritional deficiencies or imbalances exacerbated by the use of synthetic vitamins. Synthetic nutrients, being isolated compounds, often force the body to process them inefficiently, leading to toxicity or exacerbating pre-existing conditions.

For instance, synthetic vitamin D, often added to commercial dog foods, can accumulate in the body over time, leading to imbalances in calcium and phosphorus, which may contribute to joint problems and skeletal issues. Natural vitamin D, synthesized by dogs through sun exposure or provided by foods like fatty fish, is far less likely to cause these imbalances because it is absorbed and processed in conjunction with other naturally occurring nutrients.

Juliette de Bairacli Levy also highlighted how skin conditions, a frequent complaint among breeders, are often rooted in poor diet and the reliance on synthetic vitamins. Natural sources of vitamins E and omega fatty acids, such as raw eggs, salmon, and flaxseed, provide the skin and coat with the nutrients needed to stay healthy, reducing issues like itching, dandruff, and hair loss.

By focusing on these natural sources, breeders can prevent the onset of common health issues that plague many dogs today, ensuring their breeding programs produce animals that are not only aesthetically excellent but also holistically healthy.

Tailored Nutrition for Each Stage of Life

As breeders, we are responsible for meeting the nutritional needs of our dogs at every stage of their life, from puppyhood to old age. Puppies, for example, have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and pregnant or lactating bitches need additional support to ensure both their health and the development of their puppies. Providing natural vitamins and whole food supplements can support these different life stages in a balanced and safe way, avoiding the pitfalls of synthetic over-supplementation.

For puppies, natural vitamins promote healthy growth, strong immune systems, and proper neurological development. Colostrum, for example, provides vital nutrients and immune-boosting compounds that are irreplaceable in the early stages of life. As puppies wean, a diet rich in whole foods—especially organ meats, raw bones, and fresh vegetables—lays the groundwork for lifelong health. This is where natural vitamins, obtained directly from food sources, shine brightest. These nutrients come packaged with everything a puppy needs to absorb and utilize them fully, ensuring steady growth and development without the risks of overstimulation or toxicity.

Adult dogs, especially those in breeding programs or in competitive environments, benefit from a carefully balanced diet that supports their physical demands. Natural sources of vitamin B complex, found in foods like liver and brewer’s yeast, help maintain energy levels, support nerve function, and promote healthy skin and coat. By avoiding synthetic versions of these vitamins, breeders can avoid the pitfalls of over-supplementation, which can lead to neurological problems, hyperactivity, or lethargy.

For older dogs, natural vitamins play a critical role in maintaining joint health, cognitive function, and overall vitality. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as blueberries and spinach, support brain health, while natural sources of glucosamine, found in raw cartilage and bones, help maintain joint flexibility and reduce inflammation. By focusing on these natural sources, breeders can help aging dogs live longer, healthier lives with fewer degenerative issues.

The Ethical Responsibility of Breeders

As breeders, we have an ethical responsibility to provide our dogs with the best care possible, and that care extends beyond genetics. While selective breeding is important for maintaining conformation and temperament, it is only part of the picture. Nutrition, particularly the choice between natural and synthetic vitamins, plays an equally critical role in the development and longevity of our dogs.

By turning to natural sources of vitamins and minerals, we uphold a higher standard of care that honors the full complexity of our dogs’ biology. Juliette de Bairacli Levy believed that nature provides everything animals need to thrive, and it is our responsibility as caretakers to respect and adhere to these natural laws. Rita Hogan similarly emphasizes that natural remedies and nutrients are the keys to unlocking optimal health, not just for today’s dogs but for future generations.

Marina Zacharias, who has spent her career studying the effects of nutrition on animals, continues to advocate for a return to whole foods and natural supplements. She warns that synthetic vitamins, though marketed as “scientifically advanced,” often do more harm than good, especially when they are used to compensate for the deficiencies in commercial diets.

Practical Steps for Transitioning to a Natural Vitamin Protocol

If you’re a breeder who has relied on synthetic vitamins in the past, it’s not too late to make the switch to natural sources. Transitioning to a natural vitamin protocol is a process, but one that will benefit your breeding program immensely. Here are some practical steps to get started:

1.  Assess Current Diets: Begin by evaluating the current diet you provide to your dogs. Identify any synthetic vitamins or processed supplements and consider replacing them with whole food alternatives. This may include switching from commercial dog food to a raw or home-prepared diet.
2.  Start Small with Whole Food Supplements: Gradually introduce whole food-based supplements to replace synthetic vitamins. For example, start by adding raw liver or cod liver oil for vitamin A, fresh berries for vitamin C, or brewer’s yeast for B vitamins. These small changes can make a significant difference in your dogs’ overall health.
3.  Incorporate Herbs for Targeted Support: If your dogs need extra support for specific issues, such as reproductive health or joint maintenance, consider using herbal supplements like red raspberry leaf, nettle leaf, or spirulina. These herbs offer natural, bioavailable vitamins and minerals that work in harmony with your dogs’ bodies.
4.  Monitor and Adjust as Needed: As with any dietary change, it’s important to monitor your dogs’ health closely. Pay attention to how they respond to natural vitamin sources and adjust their diet accordingly. Natural nutrition is a personalized approach, and what works for one dog may need to be adjusted for another.
5.  Consult a Holistic Veterinarian or Nutritionist: If you’re unsure about how to make the transition or which whole foods to incorporate, consult with a holistic veterinarian or an animal nutritionist who specializes in natural care. They can guide you in creating a balanced, species-appropriate diet that meets all of your dogs’ nutritional needs.

Conclusion: The Path to Healthier Breeding Through Natural Vitamins

The choice between synthetic and natural vitamins is more than just a question of convenience or cost—it’s about the long-term health and vitality of your dogs. Synthetic vitamins may provide short-term fixes, but they cannot replicate the complexity and effectiveness of whole food-based nutrients. By prioritizing natural vitamins, breeders can ensure that their dogs are not only healthier but also more resilient, fertile, and capable of passing on these traits to future generations.

As breeders, we hold the key to shaping the future of our lines. By embracing the wisdom of experts like Marina Zacharias, Juliette de Bairacli Levy, and Rita Hogan, and making natural nutrition a central part of our programs, we can give our dogs the best possible chance at a long, vibrant life. The dogs we raise today are the foundation for tomorrow’s champions and companions—let’s give them the health they need to thrive.