Some dogs benefit from extra care around oxidative load: highly active dogs, seniors, and dogs recovering from illness. Research in working dogs suggests antioxidant support can reduce markers of oxidative damage during prolonged exertion, which helps explain why activity level changes the conversation (Baskin CR, 2000).
For older dogs, the question is rarely “one more blueberry.” It’s whether the broader resilience system—energy production, cellular repair, and recovery—has enough support to keep pace over time (Muršec A, 2025). Food can contribute, but it’s not always consistent day to day, which is why some owners choose a steady, measured supplement alongside a high-quality diet.