According to a Forbes article, Americans spent nearly $136.8 billion in one recent year keeping their pets healthy and happy. From toys and treats to quality nutrition, there are so many ways we can help keep our family members feeling their best. Supplements offer yet another option for those looking for other ideas to support their dogs’ overall well-being.
The types of supplements that might benefit your dog the most depend primarily on their age, breed, and health concerns. One of the most common issues dog owners notice in older canines is joint trouble, which can significantly diminish a dog’s overall quality of life. However, joint issues are not always immediately apparent and can slowly affect your dog over time. Thankfully, joint supplements from Pure Peak are veterinarian-formulated and made from natural ingredients, offering your dog the support they need to keep living their best life.
Common Joint Problems in Dogs
Joints are areas of the body where two or more bones meet. They give the body shape and help facilitate movement. Joints comprise bones and soft connective tissues like cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Dogs have different types of joints:
- Ball and socket joints, like those in the shoulders and hips, are where the rounded end of one bone fits into the indentation of another bone. These joints allow for rotation in nearly any direction.
- Hinge joints, located in the knees, allow movement in only two directions.
- Gliding or plane joints, located in the hock (ankle in humans)
These joints have fluid-filled sacs that protect the bones and line the space between them, providing essential lubrication for effective and smooth movement.
As dogs get older, they may experience joint wear and tear, decreased lubrication, pain, stiffness, arthritis, and joint problems due to obesity, especially in larger breeds.
What Are Joint Supplements, and How Do Joint Supplements Work for Dogs?
Joint supplements are one form of dietary supplement specifically formulated to support the joint health of dogs. Joint supplements are not a cure for arthritis or other medical conditions. However, they can help limit the discomfort associated with joint issues, enhance dogs’ overall well-being, support their health, and help foster an active lifestyle. Supplements can help reduce pain and inflammation related to joint problems, maintain lubrication, and support cartilage elasticity.
In many cases, adding joint supplements to your dog's routine can be beneficial, but it's important to research and provide the correct product. The best way to identify whether a joint supplement will work for your four-legged friend is to talk to your veterinarian. You want to identify and address the health issues your dog is experiencing and find a joint supplement that will best support your efforts.
What Are the Best Types of Joint Supplements for Dogs?
Choosing the right supplement for your dog can be challenging. Generally speaking, though, you should look for supplements made by reputable and established manufacturers that include the levels of ingredients that show efficacy in dogs. Consider brands your veterinarian recommends or those bearing the National Animal Supplement Council seal. The NASC is a non-profit organization that helps monitor its members and ensure that what you see on the product label is what you get.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Joint Supplements
Studies suggest that several ingredients may help support joint health. These are the key ingredients you want to look for in a quality joint supplement for your dog:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids—Inflammation is one of dogs' most significant components of joint issues and pain. Omega-3 fatty acids are “healthy fats” that have a profound natural ability to decrease inflammation. The forms of Omega-3 fatty acids that are the most useful for dogs are DHA and EPA, both found abundantly in fish oils. Research suggests that DHA and EPA Omega-3’s have the ability to naturally decrease inflammation throughout the body thus supporting joint, skin and coat, and overall health. In addition to fish oil, DHA and EPA may also be found in algae, a form that might be helpful for dogs with allergies to fish.
- Undenatured Type II Collagen - Collagen is a protein in the body that is important for maintaining the structure and function of cells critical to maintaining a strong, healthy body and overall health. Undentatured Type II Collagen for supplements for dogs has been shown to provide benefits in dogs with joint disease by decreasing joint degeneration and decreasing the signs of arthritis.
- Glucosamine—Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage, the flexible and tough tissue that helps cushion the joints. As dogs age, their levels of glucosamine decrease. Some studies suggest glucosamine hydrochlorate supplements can help counteract this decrease and support joint health.
- Chondroitin—Many supplements combine glucosamine with chondroitin. Chondroitin is another naturally occurring molecule in the body that is also a significant component of cartilage. Some evidence suggests chondroitin sulfate may help treat arthritic conditions and support joint quality. It may also block the enzymes that break down cartilage, which could protect joints from damage.
- Green-lipped mussel or GLM—GLM contains omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all essential components of a healthy diet that can support better joint health. Green-lipped mussels are a type of mollusk typically found off the coast of New Zealand. Research suggests that mussels may be supportive in the fight against arthritic conditions.
How to Give Joint Supplements to Your Dog
When giving joint supplements to your dog, always follow the manufacturer's or your vet’s instructions. Look for products with flavors and textures that suit your dog’s needs. Consider your dog’s habits and needs, and choose a formula that your dog can tolerate. Keep in mind that it may take a little trial and error.
You can get your dog to take a joint supplement by experimenting with these methods:
- Hide the pill in your dog’s favorite treat or pill-hiding product available at most pet stores
- Add the supplement to your dog’s food, mixing it in with their wet or dry food
- Top it with some cheese or peanut butter to encourage them to eat it
When to Consult Your Veterinarian for Your Dog’s Joint Health Problems
Before starting any supplement, talk to your dog’s veterinarian. If you are considering starting your pet on a joint supplement, you may have noticed signs indicating that your dog is experiencing pain or reduced mobility. Talk to your vet if you see signs such as:
- Pain
- Limping
- Stiffness
- Difficulty walking, running, or climbing
- Changes in behavior or eating patterns
- Reduced activity level
In addition to suggesting joint supplements, your vet may also recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Weight management strategies and other treatments may also be beneficial.
Joint Supplements for Dogs FAQs
How do I know my dog needs a joint supplement?
Notice changes in your dog’s movement or activity level or see apparent signs of pain or discomfort. It may be time to talk to your veterinarian about the steps you can take to diagnose and help your pet. Discuss the possibility of starting your dog on a joint supplement.
When should my dog start taking joint supplements?
The age, breed, and activity level of your dog, as well as whether they have been diagnosed with a condition like hip dysplasia, can determine the point at which they may benefit from consuming a joint supplement. Starting a joint treatment plan earlier than others may benefit some breeds, especially those predisposed to developing joint issues.
Are there side effects to taking joint supplements?
When giving your dog joint supplements, watch for allergic reactions, gastrointestinal issues, and potential interactions with other medications. Work with your vet to minimize risks and monitor your pet closely when starting a new treatment.Next article
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