Joint health is important for your dog's comfort and mobility, especially as they age. This blog covers essential ingredients, natural remedies, and tips for choosing the best joint supplement to keep your dog active and pain-free, whether they're a senior dog or just starting their journey to joint health.
According to estimates by the American Animal Health Association, one in five dogs (about 20%) will experience joint issues during their lifetime. Joint pain and mobility challenges are especially common in breeds prone to osteoarthritis. And these are just the cases we know about, there are likely many more dogs dealing with undiagnosed joint issues.
So, how can you help your pup stay active and comfortable? Many pet owners turn to joint supplements, which promise to ease pain and improve mobility. But with countless options, choosing the right one isn’t very easy.
What exactly are joint supplements? Do they work, and when should you start giving them to your dog? Keep reading to know how these supplements can support your dog’s hip & joint health, the best options available, and how to make an informed choice for your furry companion.
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Ingredients to look for in joint supplements for dogs
Keeping your dog active and pain-free starts with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and targeted supplements. Dogs that maintain a fit physique and eat a balanced diet are less likely to face arthritis and joint-related problems. But when choosing joint supplements for your furry companion, choosing the truly beneficial can be challenging.
We have curated a list of five essential active ingredients to prioritize when picking joint supplements for your dog. Here they are:
Glucosamine Hydrochloride
Cartilage, made up of collagen, plays a very important role in ensuring smooth, pain-free movement of joints, and glucosamine helps maintain its health. This ingredient stimulates cartilage growth and protects existing cartilage in your dog’s joints. While it takes a little time to build up in your dog’s system, once it hits therapeutic levels, glucosamine has been shown to reduce pain and improve movement, especially in dogs with arthritis.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a powerhouse for joint health, offering benefits for dogs of all ages. These fatty acids help reduce inflammation, ease pain and promote smoother joint lubrication. Beyond joint health, omega-3s support a healthy heart, skin, and kidneys. Fish oil or krill oil are the best sources of omega-3s for dogs, making them a great addition to any joint supplement.
Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables or ASUs
ASUs might sound complicated, but their function is straightforward: they protect cartilage by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. When combined with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, ASUs create a powerful trio that enhances joint health, making them a fantastic choice for dogs across all life stages.
Chondroitin Sulfate
This ingredient is a cartilage protector, stopping destructive enzymes from causing further damage. Chondroitin sulfate is especially recommended for dogs older than eight weeks, though it may not be ideal for those with advanced arthritis. Adding this supplement early can help maintain your dog’s joint health as they age.
Cannabidiol or CBD
For dogs with severe arthritis, CBD oil can be a game-changer. Acting through your dog’s endocannabinoid system, CBD helps manage pain and reduce inflammation. While research is ongoing, many pet owners and veterinarians have seen significant improvements in mobility and comfort with CBD supplements.
But the list doesn’t end there. Natural remedies have also carved out a niche in supporting joint health.
Natural Remedies
Turmeric, due to its anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, is a popular choice. Green lipped mussel extract is another natural option, known to reduce joint pain and inflammation effectively.
Pro Tip: Look for a supplement packed with ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and hyaluronic acid. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, antioxidants, and amino acids can also provide extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
Ingredient to avoid in joint supplements for dogs
To support your furry friend's joint health, choosing the right supplement is definitely very important. But did you know that some ingredients can do more harm than good?
Acetaminophen: A Definite No
Acetaminophen, a common over-the-counter medication for humans, is highly toxic to dogs. Even small doses can be harmful to your pet's liver, leading to serious damage or even failure.
Hidden Allergens and Sensitivities
Watch out for unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, and flavors in joint supplements. These additives might seem harmless, but they can cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild discomfort to more serious issues like persistent itching or digestive upset.
Shellfish-Derived Glucosamine Sulfate
For dogs with shellfish allergies, glucosamine sulfate can be a risky ingredient. While it’s a popular choice for joint care, it’s derived from shellfish and can trigger severe reactions, including vomiting, diarrhea, and, in extreme cases, life-threatening anaphylaxis.
At what age should I start giving my dog supplements?
Have you ever caught yourself wondering, “When is the right time to start giving my dog supplements?” It’s a great question, but the answer is not quite straightforward. Factors like breed, size, and activity level play a big role in determining when your furry friend might need a little extra joint support.
Large Breeds: As Early as 1 Year Old
If your dog is a large breed, their joints may face challenges earlier than smaller dogs. Breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Great Danes are more prone to joint issues such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. For these breeds, starting joint supplements as early as one year old can be a smart move.
Why so early? After 12 months, when your dog has finished growing, their size and weight can put additional strain on their joints, increasing the risk of issues like joint inflammation, elbow and hip dysplasia, and arthritis. Adding a joint supplement to their routine at this stage can provide much-needed support and potentially prevent these conditions from becoming severe.
Given below is a list of breeds that might benefit from early supplementation:
- Basset Hounds
- Otterhounds
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- German Shepherds
- Catahoula Hounds
- Chow Chows
- Bloodhounds
- Great Danes
- Labrador Retrievers
- French Bulldogs
- Newfoundlands
- Golden Retrievers
- Dachshunds
- Neapolitan Mastiffs
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- Norwegian Elkhounds
- Pugs
- Rottweilers
- Saint Bernards
- Old English Sheepdogs
- Pit Bulls
- Shih Tzus
Active Dogs: Around 2 to 4 Years Old
Does your dog love to run, hike, or play endless games of fetch? While all that activity keeps them happy and fit, it can also take a toll on their joints. Even smaller or medium-sized breeds with a high-energy lifestyle might benefit from supplements between 2 to 4 years old.
Senior Dogs: Around 7 Years Old
As dogs age, their joints naturally wear down. By the time your dog reaches their golden years, around seven years old for most breeds, though large breeds age faster, joint supplements become a must.
But don’t think supplements are just for seniors or adult dogs! Starting them early, even during puppyhood, can set a strong foundation for your dog’s health. Younger dogs can benefit from joint supplements designed specifically for growing bones, helping to prevent stiffness and mobility issues as they age.
So, what’s the ideal age to begin? Truthfully, there’s no wrong time. Whether your dog is a playful puppy or a fully grown adult, incorporating the right supplement for their breed and life stage is a proactive step toward a healthier, happier future.
Choosing the right joint supplement is crucial for your dog’s health. If you're unsure about the best joint supplement for your dog, reach out to Dr.Tail for personalized recommendations based on your dog's unique needs.