Dogs are highly energetic creatures, so it’s essential to maintain their joints health. This can be achieved through diet, exercise and the use of joint supplements.
Supplementing your dog’s daily regimen with a joint supplement can help ensure their overall wellbeing. While there are numerous types of joint supplements, here are a few to try:
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Glucosamine
Glucosamine is an amino sugar found in many different tissues throughout the human body, including cartilage found in joints. It’s often taken as a supplement to treat and prevent joint disorders like osteoarthritis.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like glucosamine, do not have any negative side effects for dogs. It comes in both liquid and powder forms that can be added to your dog’s food for added nutrition.
In addition to glucosamine, some joint supplements also contain chondroitin which inhibits the destructive enzymes that destroy cartilage and joint fluid. It is often recommended in combination with glucosamine for maximum benefit.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are two of the most popular natural health products for treating osteoarthritis in dogs. While they do have mild side effects, most dogs find them to be well tolerated.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is an organic compound naturally present in cartilage that aids with shock absorption, lubrication and nourishment of your dog’s joints.
Additionally, vitamin E helps form new cartilage cells by inhibiting enzymes that break down cartilage, thus relieving discomfort caused by inflammation.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often recommended as joint supplements for dogs who have hip or joint issues. Before giving these products to your pup, be sure to consult with your veterinarian first.
Chondroitin sulfate is the main component of cartilage. It can be found in food sources like fish, bird cartilage and pig trachea.
Turmeric
If your dog is suffering from arthritis, joint pain or stiffness, turmeric could be the remedy. It’s a safe and effective supplement with anti-inflammatory properties that work just as well as steroids without any of the negative side effects like weight gain, fatigue, high blood sugar or weakening of bones.
Curcumin, the primary active ingredient in turmeric, is an effective antioxidant that combats free radical damage to your dog’s body. It also acts as an adaptogen, helping them manage stress better and boosting their energy level.
Curcumin has potent anti-cancer properties that may prevent cancer or shrink existing tumors. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory effects help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a disorder characterized by diarrhea, bloating, fever and nausea.
PremiumCare Pets’ Hip + Joint Health Chews are an ideal choice for your pup, helping reduce inflammation, promote flexibility and mobility in joints. Plus, these chews contain a variety of superfoods like broad-spectrum CBD oil and hemp seed powder – the ultimate hydration partner!
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are an integral part of your dog’s diet and often found in pet foods designed for joint health. These essential nutrients can help combat inflammation, promote mobility and reduce pain.
Giving your dog a balanced dose of both omega 3 and 6 fatty acids is essential for their wellbeing. These essential lipids work together to support immunity, reduce inflammation, and prevent heart disease.
They not only promote healthy skin and coats for older pets, but they also boost cognitive function. This helps prevent deterioration that could otherwise lead to physical and mental decline.
Omega-3 fatty acids mainly consist of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which can be obtained from plant oils like flaxseed oil, canola oil or walnut oil.
EPA and DHA are easily metabolized by your dog’s body, while ALA requires conversion. For optimal results, provide them directly from cold water fish oils or other marine sources rather than vegetable oils.
