When your dog has an enhanced immune system, he is better able to fight disease and the stresses on his body that come from both external and internal sources. A health immune system gives a dog his best chance at replacing worn tissue and cells, fighting infection and growing healthy new cells. When a dog's immune system is compromised, the cells lose their function and the signs of aging occur.

Creating An Enhanced Immune System

So how can you help your dog stay healthy and fight disease? There are many positive things that pet owners can do to help. Being an active partner in your dog's health is the first step. A high-protein diet, weight control and nutritional supplements all act together to give a dog the tools he needs to keep his immune system functioning normally.

Consider giving your dog vitamins C and E as supplements to his diet. These are powerful antioxidants that fight the effects of free radicals in the body. Free radicals damage healthy cells, thus making it hard for a dog's body to build and maintain vital tissues. Other antioxidants such as oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes are derived from natural sources, and also help create an enhanced immune system. Formulas are available that contain these ingredients, as well as others that protect white blood cells that destroy bacteria and parasites.

An enhanced immune system is essential to the health of your dog. At every stage of life, a dog needs to be able to fight disease and build strong and abundant tissue. These are the things that the immune system does. Giving your dog supplements specifically formulated to boost the immune system will ensure a better quality of life for him, especially as he ages.