Hip dysplasia in dogs occurs when their hip joint becomes abnormally developed, so that when they stand or jump they don’t fit snugly into the hip socket (acetabulum).
This condition affects all breeds of dog; however, purebreds tend to be most affected. It causes pain and discomfort as dogs age.
Contents
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is one of the most popular joint supplements on the market, produced naturally by your body and found in cartilage to relieve joint pain in both humans and dogs.
No matter whether they are natural supplements, it is still important to choose one which contains appropriate doses for both your dog’s weight and condition.
Before administering glucosamine to your dog, read and follow all package instructions carefully to ensure its administration properly and to minimize allergic reactions from taking this nutrient. Some dogs can develop sensitivities.
Glucosamine can be particularly helpful for dogs who are susceptible to hip dysplasia and arthritis, providing much-needed inflammation relief as well as helping the joint cartilage to repair itself more quickly.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is an essential nutrient to ensure the hips and joints of your dog function optimally. As part of cartilage – an elastic fluid cushion between bones to keep them from touching each other – chondroitin helps them function at their best.
Your dog may also benefit from increased joint elasticity. This enables smoother movements without pain.
The chondroitin present in this formula helps decrease enzymes that breakdown cartilage, helping prevent joint diseases such as arthritis or osteoarthritis from manifesting themselves in your dog.
Supplements often contain other ingredients to aid your pet’s joints in functioning normally, such as glucosamine hydrochloride which helps build cartilage while relieving pain.
Hyaluronic acid can also help increase water in your dog’s synovial fluid, making them beneficial for active pups.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a water-loving polysaccharide molecule that facilitates joint lubrication and increases its shock-absorbing capacity, particularly around eyes and cartilage. Most often found in our eyes’ fluids or cartilage itself, however some sources also contain hyaluronic acid in soft connective tissues or joint fluids.
Soft tissue fillers like Hylaform are widely used for soft tissue augmentation and to provide cushioning in joints to relieve pain and provide extra cushioning, commonly injected under brand names like Hylaform, Captique, Esthelis Elevess Restylane Perlane Juvederm.
Hyaluronic acid can store water thousands of times greater than its own weight, providing intense hydration for skin and soft tissue. Unfortunately, as we age hyaluronic acid reserves can deplete significantly.
Supplements that address the root cause are an effective way to decrease inflammation and enhance mobility for dogs with hip dysplasia or joint pain, including those such as glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM which promote joint health as well as ingredients that support healthy joint fluid such as omega fatty acids or hyaluronic acid.
Omega 3 & 6
Supplements may be the answer if your dog is suffering from hip or joint discomfort, as their essential fatty acids support hips and joints in keeping them in optimal condition while helping reduce inflammation in their bodies and alleviating pain.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two essential omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. While fish oil provides these essential fatty acids, other sources include seeds, nuts and vegetable oils as well.
Finding a supplement containing the appropriate ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 will provide essential support for your pup’s immune system, mental function, skin, and coat health.
Omega-3 supplements should be free from toxins, pollutants, additives, colors, fillers and preservatives and should ideally be sustainably harvested. They should contain high concentrations of EPA and DHA for maximum benefit when taken alongside a healthy diet.
