Shed-Defense Soft Chews Supplement
Verified Jun 9, 2026
This is a soft chew supplement for dogs made with salmon oil and flaxseed to provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that support skin and coat quality. The chews use peas, barley, rice, and oats as the main base ingredients, with added vitamins and minerals for extra nutritional support. It’s designed to be a tasty, easy way to give your dog additional coat-focused nutrients alongside their regular diet.
A solid skin and coat supplement for dogs that provides both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed in an easy-to-feed chew. The overall nutrient profile and ingredient list are appropriate for a treat-style supplement and should work well for most healthy dogs needing some extra coat support. As with any supplement, it’s best used in addition to a complete, balanced diet rather than as a primary nutrition source.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are key nutrients for supporting skin and coat health.
- Uses salmon and salmon oil as animal-based sources of essential fatty acids, with flaxseed adding plant-based omega-3s.
- Soft chew format is typically very palatable and convenient for daily use, especially for dogs that dislike capsules or liquids.
- Includes added vitamin E and vitamin C sources, which can help support normal antioxidant status in the body.
Considerations
- This is a supplement, not a complete and balanced dog food, so it must be given alongside a nutritionally complete diet.
- Multiple carbohydrate sources (peas, barley, brewers rice, oat flour, molasses) make up much of the chew base; dogs with known food sensitivities to these ingredients will need a different option.
- Contains garlic, which is generally safe at the very low levels used in commercial products but may be avoided for dogs with a history of blood-related issues unless your veterinarian is comfortable with it.
- Natural smoke flavor and caramel color add palatability and appearance but do not provide nutritional benefit, which some owners prefer to minimize if their dog is very sensitive.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Pea
Pea is a plant-based ingredient used in pet foods as a source of protein, soluble and insoluble fiber, and micronutrients (often included as whole peas, pea flour, or pea protein concentrate) to boost protein content and improve texture. While peas can provide digestible carbohydrates, fiber, and some plant protein useful especially for dogs, they are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and — when overused, particularly in concentrated forms or as a major component of grain‑free diets — have been scrutinized for a possible association with canine dilated cardiomyopathy and can contribute to nutrient imbalances or excess calories, so balanced formulation and compliance with AAFCO nutritional profiles are important.
02
Barley
Barley is a cereal grain used in pet foods primarily as a digestible carbohydrate and source of dietary fiber (including soluble beta‑glucans), along with modest amounts of B vitamins and minerals. It can support healthy digestion, help moderate post‑meal blood sugar and aid weight management in dogs, but provides limited protein for obligate carnivores like cats, must be cooked/processed for good digestibility, and may be unsuitable for pets with grain sensitivities or calorie‑restricted diets.
03
Water
Water is an essential nutrient and the primary solvent and moisture component in pet foods, especially wet and canned diets, and is also used in processing and to adjust texture and palatability. It is vital for digestion, nutrient transport, temperature regulation and waste removal in dogs and cats; pets must have constant access to clean water as dehydration can quickly lead to serious health issues and requirements increase with activity, heat, or illness, while moisture in wet food can help meet part of their daily needs.
04
Glycerol
Glycerol (glycerin) is used in pet foods primarily as a humectant and sweetening agent to retain moisture, improve texture and palatability, and serve as a solvent or carrier in wet foods, treats, and liquid supplements. It provides a modest source of metabolizable energy for dogs and cats, but in large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset and may affect blood glucose, so products intended for diabetic pets or sensitive animals should be used with caution.
05
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is used in pet foods as a plant-based source of alpha‑linolenic acid (ALA) omega‑3, soluble and insoluble fiber, and modest protein, often added to support skin and coat condition, digestive health, and kibble texture; ground seed or flaxseed oil is more digestible than whole seed. Dogs can partially convert ALA to long‑chain EPA/DHA but cats convert ALA poorly and therefore still need marine sources for essential DHA/EPA; flax is calorie‑dense, prone to oxidation if not stabilized, and contains lignans (phytoestrogens) and trace cyanogenic compounds, so it should be processed and used in moderation.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
Brand
Nutri-Vet is a brand under Compana Pet Brands that provides veterinarian-formulated supplements, vitamins, and functional treats for dogs and cats. The brand focuses on supporting overall health, mobility, skin and coat condition, and immune function with high-quality, science-backed formulations.
Visit Nutri-VetManufacturer
Manna Pro maintains quality control and regulatory compliance across its manufacturing operations, following FDA regulations for pet food production and employing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for product safety and consistency.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Nutri-Vet Shed-Defense Soft Chews Supplement has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Nutri-Vet ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Nutri-Vet. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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