One of the top causes of arthritis in dogs is normal wear and tear over time. Conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, osteochondrosis, joint injuries, obesity, and others can also contribute to its development.
While there is no cure for arthritis, joint health supplements for dogs can help ease pain and improve mobility. One such supplement is glucosamine.
Glucosamine is a substance that occurs naturally in a dog’s body. It plays an essential role in producing the building blocks of a dog’s joints, including the tendons, ligaments, synovial fluid, and cartilage. In short, glucosamine is vital for maintaining healthy, properly functioning joints.
As dogs get older, their bodies’ natural production of glucosamine slows. It takes longer for their joints to repair after normal daily activities, such as walks or playing with their pet parents and other pet friends.
Glucosamine supplements are one of the more well-known “ neutraceuticals.” In other words, they’re a type of supplement that isn’t an essential nutrient but may provide health benefits and offer some nutritional value. Other neutraceuticals include omega-3s and antioxidants.
Supplements containing glucosamine (typically shellfish-derived) provide a dog’s body with extra glucosamine reserves. They help stimulate cartilage growth and repair and thicken synovial fluid, making it easier for dogs with arthritis and joint pain to move more normally.
Additional benefits of joint supplements include:
Glucosamine supplements aren’t only for senior dogs with arthritis. Pet parents can give these supplements to younger dogs to slow the progression of degenerative joint disease and maintain joint health.
While rare, glucosamine supplements may have some potential side effects. The most common include:
Should a pet parent notice any of these symptoms, especially symptoms of an allergic reaction, they should consult with their primary vet or speak with a member of the Fuzzy veterinary team right away.
Arthritis maintenance is one of the most common reasons pet parents give their dogs glucosamine supplements. Symptoms that let pet parents know they might want to consider joint medicine for dogs include:
Pet parents with large and giant breed dogs may also consider a joint health supplement. Due to their size, these breeds have a greater risk of developing arthritis and other joint issues. At a younger age, glucosamine may help slow joint damage and reduce the dog’s risk of severe pain and other symptoms.
There are several joint health supplements on the market that contain glucosamine. Many of them have other joint health-promoting ingredients, too. Supplements include:
Glucosamine supplements may provide pain relief and improve the quality of life of dogs with arthritis and other joint issues. They may also slow the progression of cartilage degradation, allowing aging dogs to age more gracefully (and comfortably). However, not all supplements are the same. Pet parents should read product labels and consult with a vet if they have any additional questions.
The cartilage is an important connective tissue that provides a cushion to prevent bones from rubbing together. Joint conditions typically wear down the cartilage around the joint over time and become extremely painful.
Large dogs are known for joint problems, but smaller dogs can have the same issues. The following disorders are common bone and joint disorders in dogs:
Osteochondrosis occurs when cartilage develops abnormally. Cartilage is the tissue that acts as a cushion between the joint bones. As a dog moves, the joint bones rub back and forth. Without cartilage, the bones will rub together and cause various problems such as inflammation, bone spurs, and arthritis.
This disease commonly occurs in dog breeds that have rapid growth spurts. When the cartilage doesn't develop properly, it can break off and cause extreme pain. Surgery may be needed to remove the pieces of cartilage.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease that occurs when the joint cartilage deteriorates. This is the most common type of arthritis in dogs and is usually caused by other developmental problems in the bones. There's no cure for this disease, but the deterioration can be slowed.
Hip dysplasia is a debilitating disease caused by improper hip joint and femur development. If the two bones don't grow correctly, the hips will dislocate and cause the dog a lot of pain. Also, the femur and joint rub together in a way that expedites wear and tear on the cartilage.
Hip dysplasia is common in larger dog breeds and is hereditary. Pet parents of large dogs should have regular radiographs (X-rays) taken of their dog's hips to ensure they're developing properly. If the pet parent adopts their dog from a breeder, they should make sure the breeder is reputable. A good breeder should be able to provide proof of lineage and confirm there's no hip dysplasia in the dog's bloodline.
To help ensure their dogs grow up healthy and stay healthy, pet parents need to feed them a high-quality diet, no matter their life stage.
In addition to their diet, pet parents can give their dog supplements that promote healthy growth and maintain their joint health. However, the supplement shouldn't replace a high-quality diet.
Commonly, dog joint health supplements will contain at least one of these four active ingredients responsible for good joint health in dogs. Each provides various benefits:
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that helps make up cartilage. It is also a popular ingredient in many supplements for dogs. This ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling in the joints. It also helps reduce wear and tear on the cartilage by repairing it and preventing it from breaking down.
Pet parents may want to consider giving their young dog a daily supplement containing glucosamine as a preventative, especially if their dog is a breed that's known for developing arthritis.
Chondroitin is another compound found in cartilage. Chondroitin absorbs water and prevents enzymes from breaking down the cartilage. It can also help make new cartilage.
The ingredient form of chondroitin is often used in conjunction with glucosamine. Some evidence suggests chondroitin promotes cartilage production. Studies on the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin are limited. However, many vets recommend using supplements containing these ingredients based on results they've witnessed from their patients.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is another supplement that contains anti-inflammatory properties. It also has antioxidant properties and is recommended by vets for various conditions. Conditions that potentially benefit from this ingredient include some cancers and arthritis.
Supplements containing green-lipped mussels can help dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. They are a species of mussel found off the coast of New Zealand and contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the inflammation and pain in the dog's joints caused by osteoarthritis. Several supplement products contain green-lipped mussels, so pet parents don't have to go to New Zealand.
Fish oils found in salmon, sardines, and anchovies are also a source for Omega-3s.
If pet parents aren’t sure which joint health supplement might be best for their dogs, they can always seek advice from Fuzzy’s veterinary support team. Fuzzy vets are available 24/7 to help pet parents navigate dog health problems.
Typically, pet parents associate dog joint health supplements with senior canines. However, older dogs with arthritis aren’t the only ones who can benefit.
Dogs can develop various joint issues, including arthritis, hip dysplasia, injuries, and more. Joint health supplements can help ease pain and improve mobility, allowing a dog to move more comfortably.
Osteoarthritis (or arthritis) is one of the most common issues most dogs face. As they age, the cartilage in their joints begins to naturally wear away, leading to a whole host of problems, including:
Arthritis can also lead to lethargy, appetite loss, and sudden irritability when touched or groomed near the affected joints. Dogs may also have trouble relieving themselves or start having accidents in the house.
Joint injuries, such as stress fractures, hyperextension, and cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears, can sometimes lead to issues later down the line, even after the dog fully recovers from the initial injury. For instance, a CCL tear can lead to a buildup of fluid in the knee, bony growths, or a thickening of the joint membrane.
While all dogs can develop joint issues, some are more at risk than others. For instance, German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers have a higher risk of hip dysplasia. Large and giant breeds, including Saint Bernards, Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Rottweilers, have a greater chance of experiencing joint issues because of their size. In some cases, their issues can be more severe.
The great news about joint health supplements for dogs is that pet parents don’t have to wait until they notice signs of discomfort. Younger dogs with no symptoms of arthritis or other joint issues can still benefit, as supplements can help prevent problems from developing as they age. Early prevention can be especially beneficial for larger breeds.
Tip: Pet parents who want to use joint health supplements as a preventative measure should wait until their dog is at least 12 months old.
Pet parents have a wide range of dog joint health supplement options, many of which are available through Fuzzy. Some formulas provide daily support to maintain joint health, such as Dandy Joint Care Supplements and VetClassics Joint Support Plus. Others, including VetClassics ArthiEase Gold, provide support for dogs currently experiencing joint issues. Some supplements, such as Nutramax Dasuquin MSM, can help get joint pain under control and then provide daily maintenance.
Some supplements or dogs include ingredients that provide additional benefits beyond supporting joint health for dogs. For example, the omega-3s in Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Softgels also help maintain a dog’s brain, eye, skin, coat, and heart health, along with helping support healthy joints.
Finding the best joint health supplements for dogs can feel like an overwhelming task. The following tips can help pet parents find quality products:
Pet parents should look for specific ingredients on a joint health supplement label, including:
Pet parents should be wary of supplements that make any definitive health claims. Supplements aren’t cure-alls.
Large dogs have very different needs than small breeds do. Supplements should provide dosing recommendations for dogs based on their weight. Some manufacturers create products specifically for dogs in certain size categories, which can make the process easier.
Tip: No matter which joint health supplement a pet parent chooses, it should not act as a replacement for nutrients from a dog's food. A high-quality diet is crucial to a canine's overall health.
If pet parents aren’t sure which joint health supplement might be best for their dogs, they can always seek advice from Fuzzy’s veterinary support team. By becoming a Fuzzy member, they gain access to a Live Vet Chat, which they can use 24/7/365. They can get help with supplements, joint health in general, and all of their other dog (and cat) related questions.
Dogs can develop joint issues resulting from a progressive, degenerative condition known as osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis in dogs. With this condition, the cartilage in a dog’s joints — the flexible connective tissue that coats the ends of the bones, cushioning them against impact and allowing the joint to move fluidly — gradually breaks down. That leads to irritation, inflammation, and pain. Dogs with osteoarthritis have a harder time moving around or enjoying many of their favorite activities.
Osteoarthritis and other joint issues can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. However, it’s most common in senior dogs. Other factors that may increase a dog’s risk include:
While dogs often try to hide their pain, some warning signs may indicate they’re developing issues with their joints. These include:
There are no cures for osteoarthritis, but pet parents can help manage their dog’s pain. One option is supplements that support joint and bone health for dogs. They can:
Joint supplements aim to reduce inflammation and pain and improve joint mobility. They may also slow the progression of joint damage and osteoarthritis and help improve a dog’s overall quality of life.
Joint supplements contain one or more ingredients that studies show may aid joint health and functionality in dogs, including:
Glucosamine suppresses inflammation in an arthritic joint and prevents cartilage degradation. It can also help repair damaged cartilage.
Chondroitin sulfate (or chondroitin) helps reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and can slow arthritis progression. Many supplements that contain glucosamine also contain chondroitin.
Green-lipped mussel extract contains various beneficial compounds, including omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation and supporting joint health.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements promote healthy joint lubrication and help reduce inflammation. They also help support heart, skin, and kidney health.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally-occurring sulfur compound that supports connective tissue health. It also offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Although a dog’s body produces it naturally, that decreases with age. Many supplements that contain MSM also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, like Nutramax Dasuqin with MSM.
Avocado soybean unsaponifiables (ASUs) can protect cartilage by reducing inflammation and promoting healing after injury.
Joint supplements aren’t the only way pet parents can support their dog’s joint health. Some additional methods include:
Osteoarthritis and other joint issues can cause dogs a lot of pain. Joint supplements offer one solution for easing joint inflammation and discomfort, improving a dog’s comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
If pet parents aren’t sure which joint supplements might be best for their dogs, there’s help available. In addition to their primary vet, they can consult with a professional online vet via Fuzzy’s Live Vet Chat at any time.
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that affects a dog’s joints. This condition occurs when the soft cushion tissue (cartilage) breaks down, and the joint bones rub together. When the joint bones rub together, they can cause severe pain, inflammation, and bone spurs.
Osteoarthritis can be a primary condition caused by age and/or genetics. In many dogs, osteoarthritis is a secondary condition caused by some other underlying factor, such as:
Large dog breeds and high-impact athletic dogs tend to be prone to osteoarthritis.
An observant pet parent can often spot the signs of osteoarthritis early before the disease progresses. These signs include:
If a pet parent notices any of these signs, they should take their dog to be evaluated by their vet. There are several tests a vet can perform to diagnose osteoarthritis in dogs, beginning with a physical exam. During the exam, the vet may assess the dog’s range of motion in various joints and palpate the joints.
Radiographs are also helpful for showing visible changes in the bone. An alone x-ray isn't able to show if a joint has arthritis. An orthopedic examination can further inform if a joint is affected by arthritis. The vet may want to repeat the radiographs over time to establish any changes.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease; however, the process can be slowed with medications, supplements, and accommodations made at home.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a common treatment for osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, they can have harsh side effects, and they aren’t recommended for long-term use. If a dog is given NSAIDs, they will likely require regular blood work to monitor organ function and health.
In severe cases, the vet may recommend a total joint replacement surgery or removal of the damaged tissue. These surgeries can be costly and usually require a vet specializing in orthopedic surgery.
Pet parents can help prevent or slow the development of osteoarthritis by giving their dog a joint supplement before any signs of osteoarthritis. In addition, the following home modifications can also increase a dog’s quality of life while living with osteoarthritis:
Finally, it's important that pet parents keep their dog at a healthy weight with a properly balanced diet. This will help reduce the stress on the already weakened joints.
For more information on osteoarthritis in dogs, pet parent can access Fuzzy Vet Chat 24/7 for specific health and wellness questions about their senior dog.
The first signs of early-stage arthritis in dogs are often so subtle that pet parents often chalk them up to the normal slowing down that comes with aging. For instance, the animal may not keep up quite as well on routine walks or backyard play sessions. Other signs of emerging arthritis include the following.
Dogs in the developing stage of arthritis may also begin to gain weight as they become less active. The good news is that pet parents have a variety of options for promoting good joint health for dogs and minimizing arthritis-related pain and discomfort.
Although it is not possible to reverse arthritis in dogs, supplements and oils may help relieve the associated pain of the condition and preserve the functionality of the joints. Pet parents should look for products containing chondroitin and glucosamine. These ingredients increase water retention in the joints, which provides more cushioning and reduces inflammation. Joint supplements should also contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and glycosaminoglycans because all of these have been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Because movement is good for overall joint health, it's important to continue to provide older dogs with exercise. Pet parents should consider exercise adjustments if they suspect that their dog may be suffering from arthritis. As a general rule of thumb, if the dog exhibits higher than average stiffness and soreness the day after exercise, it's time to consider adjustments in the duration and intensity of future exercise sessions. For instance, taking shorter walks more frequently in place of a long walk once a day may help decrease inflammation levels in the joints.
Other strategies for making exercise less likely to damage the joints are eliminating high-impact activities such as fetching and seeking softer surfaces for walks, such as grass or sand, rather than asphalt or cement.
Excess weight on dogs with arthritis increases the amount of pain the animal feels while walking or running and the rate at which the cartilage continues to break down.
Senior dogs should be fed a diet specifically designed to meet their nutritional and caloric needs. Weight management is important in younger dogs as well because being overweight can cause arthritis to develop prematurely.
Along with regular walks to strengthen muscles, dogs with arthritis can benefit from several strengthening and stretching exercises. Walking up, down, and sideways on hills helps retain muscle strength and promote good balance, and hydrotherapy such as underwater treadmill walking strengthens muscles without putting pressure on the animal's joints.
Stretching exercises include grasping the dog's back leg just above the knee, slowly moving it back, holding it in that position for 15 seconds, and doing the same with the front legs. These exercises should be repeated two or three times per day. Placing a warm washcloth over the affected joints before stretching for 10-15 minutes and then icing the same area for the same length of time following the sessions helps minimize pain.
Pet parents should consult with a veterinary rehabilitation specialist before adding strengthening or stretching exercises to their pet's daily routine.
Massaging helps relieve pain, promote good circulation, and reduce inflammation. However, pet parents should be careful not to directly massage the affected joints and be mindful about how the animal reacts to the touch. Always consult with a veterinary professional before beginning a massage regimen.
Pet parents with Fuzzy memberships can reach out to veterinary support professionals 24 hours per day, seven days a week, for expert dog health advice.
As pets age, they start to develop chronic conditions that we have to actively manage. Arthritis in dogs is, unfortunately, a common one of these. The good news is that there are many different things you can do to keep your pup as comfortable as possible, from walking underwater to pain meds.
Ensure your pet has a good, thick padded bed to rest on in your home. You may not always get them to actually lay on the bed, but it’s good to give them a place to rest where their joints will not be in direct contact with the ground. You can also use Bag Balm or Dermoscent Bio Balm over areas that are prone to mild bed sores such as joints (especially elbows).
If your pet has problems with slipping around on the floor, it can be helpful to have rugs over the areas in your home on which your pet walks frequently. Some dogs may also benefit from using toe grips on their toe nails. These just slide over individual nails and help your pup grip slippery surfaces when they are walking.
Cold laser is a safe, effective treatment for inflammation and arthritis in dogs and cats. It can be performed at home, with no risk to your pup.
Many pets with mild arthritis will benefit from joint supplements like glucosamine or chondroitin. Some also contain fish oil, which not only helps maintain healthy joints, but also keeps coats shiny and benefits the heart. Dasuquin and Welactin are some of our favorites, but there are many other great alternatives on the market.
Some pups will require prescription-strength intervention to improve their quality of life. If your dog seems to be very stiff or is limping more often than not, it’s probably time to consider prescription medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are a common class of medication used to treat arthritis, pain, and stiffness. These medications are similar to human ibuprofen, but not toxic to our dogs like ibuprofen is!
The most commonly used NSAIDs in vet medicine are Carprofen, Meloxicam, Robenacoxib, and Grapiprant. Make sure your pup’s liver and kidneys are working properly before they go on an NSAID regimen. These organs are responsible for breaking down and excreting these medications. It is also important to regularly monitor liver values and kidney values during treatment so that your vet can adjust the dosage to maximize quality of life while minimizing side effects.
In some cases, other classes of drugs or additional drugs may be needed in order to keep your pet comfortable. Gabapentin is a medication that can help treat pain in dogs (especially nerve pain) and is generally well tolerated. Vets also sometimes recommend opioids such as Tramadol. Adequan is an injectable prescription medication that can help with maintaining healthy cartilage in joints. Chat with your veterinarian about pain management options, as your pet may benefit from different medications based on their particular case and medical history.
Arthritis in dogs often leads to loss of muscle mass in the legs and back. Water therapy with resistance or an underwater treadmill can be very helpful in helping dogs maintain or rebuild their muscle mass, which in turn increases overall strength and comfort level. Tailored exercise plans can be helpful to strengthen target muscles to help support arthritic joints.
Similarly, chiropractic treatments help increase mobility in a dog’s joints and increase range of motion. It should be performed by a licensed veterinary chiropractor, and it’s usually most effective in conjunction with other treatments and medications.
Acupuncture for dogs is a thing! It can be particularly effective for spinal pain, arthritis, elbow and hip dysplasia. Like chiropractic, only licensed veterinary acupuncturists should perform this treatment. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Acupuncture does require your pet to remain somewhat still!
In some cases, dogs can be fitted for orthotics or prosthetics to support the joints they are struggling with. Unfortunately, orthotics are not available for every condition – chat about it with your vet!
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