FAQs

How do I use supplements?

You should follow the recommended dosages and talk to your dog's health care provider. You can also mix the supplement with some of these foods: plain yogurt, kefir, bone broth, goat milk, warm coconut oil or even water. If you're not sure you can ask your dog's health care provider or send us an email hello@NorthHoundLife.com.

How much do I give my dog?

Every product has a feeding guide printed on the label, based on your dog's weight. If you're not sure which weight band applies, use the lighter end to start — you can always increase. The bamboo scoop included in some jars is designed as a heaping ¼ tsp, not a level measurement, so don't pack it flat.

Can I split the dose between morning and evening?

Yes, absolutely. Splitting the daily amount — smaller dose in the morning, larger dose at night, or equal halves — works just as well and can actually be better for ongoing digestive support. As long as the total daily amount stays within the feeding guide, you're good.

Can I mix supplements into food?

Yes. All powders can be mixed directly into wet food, raw food, or kibble. For picky dogs, try mixing with a small amount of warm bone broth, plain yogurt, or peanut butter (xylitol-free). If your dog refuses a supplement outright, check our recipe blog — we have things like no-bake Golden Turmeric Wellness Bites that work well for stubborn eaters.

Can I use supplements with kibble?

Yes! We suggest you mix it with yogurt, kefir, bone broth, goat milk or water before adding it your dog's bowl. And, like with all things you should start with slow amounts and if you're not sure you can ask your holistic vet or send us an email hello@NorthHoundLife.com.

Why do you say Atlantic Kelp isn't recommended for kibble diets?

Our Canadian kelp has naturally occurring iodine. The majority of kibble fed diets are nutritionally balanced and if you add too much iodine in their diet it may cause some issues. We suggest you speak with your vet if you are interested in adding Kelp to your dog's kibble fed diet.

Can my dog have superfoods and supplements every day?

We always suggest you try to give your dog an occasional break from superfoods and supplements. Even whole foods can cause damage if given everyday long-term, so we always suggest a therapeutic break. North Hound Life follows the on-again, off-again cycle which can help the body heal and stimulate itself. These breaks are a great way to minimize risk and to observe how your dog is responding to the addition of supplements.

How long is a therapeutic break?

We always suggest you speak with your veterinarian, holistic practitioners or canine nutritionist before starting any protocols. Our general guideline is four to six weeks on and then one to two weeks off. This is the on-again, off-again cycle.

How long before I see results?

It depends on the product and the dog. Joint supplements like Green Lipped Mussel typically take 4–6 weeks of consistent daily use before you may notice a meaningful difference. Digestive support products like Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root can work faster — often within a few days. Immune and mushroom products build over time. The key is consistency.

My dog has a sensitive stomach — how do I introduce a new supplement?

Start with half the recommended dose for the first week, then build up to full dose in week two. Introducing any new food or supplement too quickly can cause temporary loose stools, which isn't a sign the product is wrong — just that the gut needs time to adjust.

Can I give more than one supplement at the same time?

Yes. Most of our supplements are designed to work well together. Common combinations we see customers use: Omega 3+ with Green Lipped Mussel for joint support; Slippery Elm with Probiotic+ for digestive health; Turkey Tail with Bovine Colostrum for immune support.

Can I give Omega 3+ (Seal Oil) and Green Lipped Mussel together?

Yes. Both are marine-sourced omega-3 products but they work differently — seal oil provides EPA and DHA, while green lipped mussel also contributes ETA (a rare omega-3 only found in GLM) plus natural anti-inflammatory compounds. They complement each other well and there's no concern about doubling up.

Can I give Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root, and Probiotic+ together?

Generally yes, with one important note: Slippery Elm can slow the absorption of medications and some supplements if given at the same time. If your dog is on medication, give Slippery Elm at least two hours apart from it. The three products together for GI support are fine as a combination.

Should I give Bovine Colostrum or Probiotic+?

They do different things. Probiotic+ introduces canine-specific bacterial strains that support gut flora. Bovine Colostrum is more of a whole-health immune and gut-lining support. They can absolutely be used together — Colostrum doesn't replace a probiotic. Many customers use both, especially for dogs recovering from antibiotics or illness.

The label says "do not use long term" — is it safe to give every day?

This wording is required by Health Canada for all Veterinary Health Products as a standard regulatory label — it's not a specific warning about our formulations. It means: don't exceed the recommended dose without veterinary guidance, and if your dog has a known condition, check with your vet. Many of our customers give products like Green Lipped Mussel, Omega 3+, and Slippery Elm daily for years. If you have concerns about a specific product and your dog's health situation, we always recommend speaking to your vet.

Is Omega 3+ (Seal Oil) safe for long-term daily use?

Yes. Omega-3 supplementation is one of the most well-supported long-term supplements in both human and veterinary nutrition. Start with the recommended dose based on body weight and stay within those guidelines.

Is Green Lipped Mussel safe for long-term use?

Yes — it's a whole-food marine supplement. Many dogs take it continuously for years, especially for ongoing joint support.

Can my dog take these if they're on medication?

For most supplements, there's no issue. The exception to be aware of: Slippery Elm Bark can slow absorption of oral medications, so give it at least two hours before or after any medication. If your dog is on a specific drug regimen, speak with your vet before introducing a new supplement.

Can cats take your products?

Several can, yes. We have a feline feeding guide available at northhoundlife.com/pages/feline. Note that Dental+ is not recommended for cats — it contains kelp (iodine) and activated charcoal, which are not suitable for felines.

My dog has allergies and itchy skin — what do you recommend?

Start with our Allergy Bundle as a foundation: it's built to address seasonal and environmental allergies from multiple angles. Bee Pollen (Ontario-sourced, local to your region if possible) supports immune desensitization to environmental allergens. Omega 3+ supports skin barrier and reduces inflammatory response. Introduce bee pollen slowly — start with a few granules and watch for any reaction (vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive paw licking) in the first few days.

My dog is really itchy, can you help us?

We would love to help however, we are not in any position to diagnose. You should speak to your holistic veterinarian first and, we will be here ready for you with our superfoods! You can also check out this list of canine nutritionist/consultants.

My dog is having GI issues — vomiting or loose stools. What can help?

For acute digestive upset, Slippery Elm Bark is often the first go-to — it coats and soothes the GI tract. Marshmallow Root works similarly for acid reflux or upper GI irritation. If your dog is experiencing recurring GI issues or vomiting blood, please see your vet first before adding supplements. If a product is causing vomiting even at a tiny dose, stop it and contact us — we'll help troubleshoot.

My dog is having ACL surgery — what supplements support recovery?

Green Lipped Mussel is a better choice than glucosamine alone for ACL-related joint support — it provides a broader anti-inflammatory profile as a whole-food supplement. Post-surgery, when your dog is likely on antibiotics, adding Probiotic+ or Bovine Colostrum helps protect gut health. Turmeric Wellness+ supports inflammation reduction naturally during recovery.

My senior dog has fatty lumps (lipomas) confirmed by the vet — can supplements help?

Turkey Tail is one of the most researched functional mushrooms for dogs, but it's worth being clear: it has not been shown to directly shrink or eliminate lipomas. What it does do is support immune function and overall cellular health, which matters a lot for aging dogs. A broader approach tends to be more effective than looking for one solution. That includes healthy weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, omega-3 supplementation, and daily movement. Some dog parents also find gentle daily detox support helpful: things like Dandelion Root, Milk Thistle, and fresh water. Always confirm with your vet that any lump is a benign lipoma before adding supplements.

My dog has pancreatitis — is Omega 3+ (Seal Oil) safe?

Seal oil is 100% fat (24% of which is omega-3). For dogs with pancreatitis, any fat addition needs to be discussed with your vet, as fat intake needs to be managed carefully. We recommend checking with your veterinarian before adding any oil-based supplement if pancreatitis is active or recent.

Can I freeze supplements into treats or molds?

Yes — most powders and the Pure Collagen can be frozen into silicone molds with broth or coconut water. The one exception is GI Balance (Slippery Elm Bark) — we don't recommend freezing it, as the gel-forming properties may be affected.

Where do you source your ingredients?

We start looking and sourcing local to Ontario and then move east and west across Canada. Then we look outside of Canada, primarily New Zealand and the United States. Our ingredients are 100% from people food markets sourcing the highest quality available for people. Meaning the same high quality food we eat.

Are your products tested?

Yes. All products are tested for microbiology and heavy metals. Our kelp, for example, is tested for arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium. Certificates of Analysis are available on request. Our products are registered as Veterinary Health Products (VHP) with Health Canada, which requires pre-market review of safety, quality, and efficacy claims.

What type of collagen is in Pure Collagen?

Our Pure Collagen is 100% hydrolyzed grass-fed bovine collagen peptides. It provides Types I and III collagen, which support joint health, skin and coat, and gut lining. Hip & Joint Elite+ uses UC-II® undenatured Type II collagen, which works through a different immune-tolerance mechanism — a much lower dose (40mg) supports joint cartilage directly.

Are there hormones or antibiotics in the Eggshell Membrane?

No. CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) regulations prohibit hormones in Canadian poultry. Antibiotics may be used to treat sick chickens before entering the human food chain, but not preventatively. Our eggshell membrane is sourced from Canadian eggs and undergoes microbiology testing.

How is the Turkey Tail sourced and what are the polysaccharide levels?

Our Turkey Tail is a concentrated mushroom powder with polysaccharide content greater than 30%. It's sourced from quality suppliers and tested for identity and microbiology.

What's the difference between Turkey Tail Only and Mushroom Power (Five Mushroom Blend)?

Turkey Tail Only is concentrated for direct immune system support — higher dose of a single focused mushroom. Mushroom Power combines five mushrooms (including Turkey Tail, Lion's Mane, Shiitake, Maitake, and others) for broader adaptogenic and cognitive support. If your dog has a specific immune need (cancer recovery, chronic illness), Turkey Tail Only is the better choice. For general wellness and brain health, Mushroom Power covers more ground.

Does Bee Pollen have to be sourced from where I live to work?

Bee Pollen has naturally occurring antihistamines which can help relieve seasonal allergy symptoms. It does not have to be from your area to be effective.

Does Hip & Joint Health keep working after you stop?

Yes! To start using this amazing superfood we suggest you use it for four to six weeks. And then you can take a break for four weeks and start again. Green Lipped Mussels are known to still help your dog ease their joints up to four weeks after you stop adding it to their bowl.

Is the wheatgrass a juice or a whole-food powder?

It's the whole food — young organic wheatgrass that has been gently dehydrated. Not a juice, not an extract. No fillers.

Why does the label on your Organic Cold-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil say it’s an “Excellent source of plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids”?

We recently identified an error on our Organic Cold-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil label that mistakenly includes the claim “Excellent source of plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids.” While coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) — known for their potential antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal benefits — it is not a source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
This was an oversight during the label copy review process, where the benefits of MCTs were mistakenly associated with Omega-3s. We’re currently in the process of updating the packaging to reflect the correct nutritional profile.

Why can't I find a product on your website?

A few possible reasons: the product may be temporarily out of stock, it may be undergoing a labeling update, or (for US customers) it may be affected by import restrictions. Use the "Notify Me" button on any out-of-stock product page and you'll get an email the moment it's back.

Why are some products not available in the US?

US import regulations restrict certain animal-derived products. Specifically:
Seal Oil cannot be imported into the US (Marine Mammal Protection Act)
Pure Bovine Collagen is restricted at the US border
Eggshell Membrane and Probiotic+ have faced recent US customs challenges
We ship from our Arkansas fulfillment center, so anything available on our US site is cleared for US delivery. If you're looking for an alternative to a restricted product, contact us and we'll suggest what's available to you.

Is Eggshell Membrane coming back to the US?

We're actively working on it. New US customs documentation requirements have delayed our last few shipments. Sign up for the "Notify Me" alert on the product page and we'll email you as soon as it's available.

Why is your product more expensive on Amazon than your website?

Amazon's fulfillment, warehousing, and commission fees are built into the Amazon price. Buying directly from our website is always the best value — and your purchase directly supports a small Canadian business in Muskoka.

I have a subscription and need to update it. How do I do that?

You need to login to your subscription dashboard. Once logged in you can update your credit card number, manage upcoming deliveries and past deliveries. You can access your login here: https://www.northhoundlife.com/tools/recurring/get-subscription-access

Can I skip a delivery instead of cancelling?

Yes — the customer portal lets you pause or skip upcoming orders without cancelling your subscription.

How do I cancel or change my subscription?

You can manage your subscription directly through the customer portal — look for the link in any of your subscription emails. If you're having trouble finding it, email us your account email address and we'll cancel or adjust it for you.

I accidentally subscribed — can I switch to a one-time order?

Yes. Email us right away with your order number and we can cancel the subscription component and adjust your order.

Do you have a storefront or can I pick up locally?

We don't have a retail storefront, but if you're in the Huntsville area, Gus & Gigi's carries our full product range and is open daily. We also sell through retail partners across Canada including Bone & Biscuit, Ren's Pets, and Popeye's — though not every location carries every product, so it's worth calling ahead.

Where do you ship?

Canada and the United States. Some products are restricted at the US border (see above). We fulfill Canadian orders from our Huntsville office and North York warehouse; US orders ship from our Arkansas fulfillment center.

If I'm in Canada, will my order be sent from Canada?

Yes! We are located in Ontario and all Canadian orders are sent out directly from Ontario to our customers in Canada.

Can I cancel or modify my order?

Email us as quickly as possible at hello@northhoundlife.com with your order number. If your order hasn't been fulfilled yet, we can usually make changes. Once it's been picked and packed, we can't modify it — but we do accept returns within 30 days.

Can I add to my order after it's been placed?

Sometimes, if the order hasn't shipped yet. Email hello@northhoundlife.com quickly and we'll do our best. During sales, we can often create a separate invoice for additional items at the sale price and ship them together.

Why did I not get Free Shipping?

Occasionally we offer Free Shipping to pet parents if they reach a minimum sub-total. This is a standard well known practice to offer free shipping based on your sub-total. Sub-total is before taxes and discounts. This means, if you use a discount code, it might drop your sub-total below the free shipping threshold. And, depending on where you live, your sales taxes are calculated at different percentages, so Free Shipping is based on your sub-total.

If I am in the USA, will my order be sent from Canada?

No, your order will be sent out directly from Arkansas. We send all US orders from within the USA to ensure that there are no border delays or unexpected tariffs added onto your order.

I'm in the USA and my package hasn't arrived

Orders to the USA are shipped directly from Arkansas. You will receive an email with your tracking information as soon as your order has shipped. Please email us hello@NorthHoundLife.com ONLY if you have Package Protection. If you de-selected Package Protection then you are responsible to contact the carrier who shipped your order.

I haven't received a shipping confirmation — what's happening?

Confirmation emails sometimes land in spam or junk folders — check there first. If you've been waiting more than a few business days and there's nothing, email us at hello@northhoundlife.com with your order number and we'll look into it.

Why is shipping so expensive?

Shipping costs are something we wish we could wave a magic wand over, but here's the honest truth! We're a small-town Muskoka brand, and while we ship from warehouses in Toronto and Arkansas, every order still travels a real distance to reach you. Our glass jars also need extra packing materials and care to arrive in one piece, and couriers in Canada aren't cheap. We do everything we can to keep costs reasonable while making sure your order shows up safe and sound.

Why is my free shipping taking so long?

When North Hound Life offers Free Shipping with a discount code or a promotion, we always ship the most economical. Even if you selected the fastest shipping option at the checkout. This means, it may take longer for you to receive your products.

My package shows it's delivered, but I don't have it.

First, check with other members of your household as well as your neighbours. Then you need to follow the tracking history from the courier's site. If you declined Package Protection, and your package has been lost, stolen, delayed or damaged, please contact the carrier (UPS, FedEx, CanPar, DHL etc.). If you selected Package Protection at checkout, your order will be protected from damage, loss or theft. If your order never arrives or is damaged when it arrives, you can file a claim with our team and receive a replacement order or be reimbursed.

My order arrived damaged.

First, take photos of not only the shipping packaging box but also the damaged products and inside the box. Then reply to your order or shipping confirmation email explaining the damages and include all photographs. If you declined Package Protection, and your package has damaged, please contact the carrier (UPS, FedEx, CanPar, DHL etc.). If you selected Package Protection, your order will be protected from damage and we will reimburse you or send a replacement.

Where can I find your full refund policy?

You can find our full Returns & Refund policy here: Returns & Refunds

What is your return policy?

Our return policy lasts 30 days. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately, we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied before the 30 days, simply return the product for a refund minus all shipping costs. Just email hello@NorthHoundLife.com.

What is your refund policy?

Our policy lasts 30 days. If 30 days have gone by since your purchase, unfortunately we can’t offer you a refund or exchange. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied before the 30 days, simply return the product for a refund minus all shipping costs and restocking fee if you're from outside of Canada. Just email hello@NorthHoundLife.com.

Can I return part of a bundle product?

Yes, if you have purchased a bundle product and would only like to return part of the bundle, you can do so for a partial refund if your order has been placed within the last 30 days. Just email hello@NorthHoundLife.com.

What is the shelf life of your products?

Our best before dates for our superfoods range from 12 months to 72 months, it depends on the actual superfood. The great thing about our superfoods is that they actually only lose potency and flavour after the pass their best before date, hence "BEST BEFORE".

Do you have a list of veterinarians I can call?

We don't have veterinarians "on call" but CLICK HERE FOR A LIST of holistic veterinarians across Canada.

I just got a puppy! What do you recommend?

Congratulations! Puppies! We always suggest you start with a puppy (growing dog) appropriate food. Puppies need proper nutrition for their breed and rate of growth. You can talk to your veterinarian or breeder to find out which food is best for your puppy. We always suggest you keep a jar of Organic Slippery Elm Bark on hand in case of any gastric distress (diarrhea) and you can quickly make your puppy feel better. And, if you are inclined you can always add sparingly to their bowl these superfoods: Berry Blast, Veggie Boost, Goat Milk Plus, Organic Wheatgrass.

Why does the bamboo 1/4 tsp scoop look smaller than my regular measuring spoon?

The bamboo scoop is meant to be a heaping 1/4 tsp, not level. When flattened, it may look smaller than a standard measuring spoon. For the most accurate dosing, use your own kitchen measuring spoons and follow the feeding guide. Since our formulas are natural whole-food supplements, there is a small range of flexibility within the recommended amount.

Why don't all your products have scoops? 

We are making a conscious effort with our packaging to reduce waste and scoops are a small way that we can do this. Some of our products are mandated by Health Canada to include a scoop and you will find one inside your jar, these are bamboo spoons which are ultimately compostable. We know that many or all of you, pet parents, will have a measuring spoon inside your home that can be used and reused in our collective effort to be just a little better to our planet.