If your dog suffers from stiffness, there’s no doubt you’ll have some worries. When it comes to ensuring that every tail wag is as lively as the first, you might be wondering ‘What’s good for dog joints?’. Just as our bodies recognise the occasional stiffness or need for extra TLC as we age, our dogs can face similar joint and mobility challenges.
Here at Green Pantry, we offer completely natural senior dog food that helps to target joint problems. In this guide, we’ll tackle everything you need to know about caring for your canine’s joints – from understanding potential issues to making subtle yet impactful changes to your pup’s lifestyle.
For a more agile pooch, keep reading!
Understanding dog joint health
Your dog’s joints are a crucial part of their lives, allowing fluid movements that enable those memorable sprints and joyful bounces. But what happens if these hinges start to creak and groan? Understanding the anatomy of your dog’s joints is the first step in appreciating the need for correct joint care.
Common canine joint issues
There are various joint-related and mobility problems when it comes to our furry friends, with canine osteoarthritis (or arthritis as we know it!) being one of the most common conditions. This degenerative joint disease is often characterised by swelling, pain, and stiffness, and can affect dogs of all ages. However, it’s most common in senior dogs or those with historic injuries.
In addition to arthritis, dogs can also suffer from other ailments such as:
- Hip dysplasia
- Knee ligament injuries
- Elbow dysplasia
All of which require a lot of attention and care.
The best joint care for dogs
So, what’s good for dog joints? Well, there are several factors that can help with your dog’s joints, however, the best joint care can depend on their individual needs and the severity of their condition. Some of the most common and reliable ways to treat unhealthy joints include:
- Joint supplements – Some natural supplements include ingredients such as turmeric, boswellia seratta, and green-lipped mussel, all of which can help reduce joint care and inflammation.
- Weight management – maintaining a healthy and controlled weight can help to reduce stress on joints.
- Regular exercise – just like with humans, regular and low-impact exercise can help to keep joints flexible and strong.
- Hydrotherapy and Laser Therapy- Working with expertly trained canine rehab specialists is a brilliant way to help your dog’s joint care.
- Medications – in some cases, medicines like Librella may be necessary to manage pain and inflammation. We recommend consulting with a veterinarian first..
The importance of a balanced diet
Nutrition is the foundation of health, and joint care is no exception. High-quality and natural dog food, that is specially formulated to support joint health, can be incredibly beneficial. Here at Green Pantry, we know a thing or two about a balanced diet. We recommend looking out for diets that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin – compounds known to sustain joint integrity.
Overfeeding and unhealthy snacking, however tempting, are potential pathways to joint problems. Ensure that your dog stays at a healthy weight, leaning on portion control and nutritious natural treats to maintain a sleek physique.
Exercise – in moderation
A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weakened muscles and stiff joints. On the other hand, excessive running or rough play can have equally detrimental effects. Engage your furry friend in regular, low-impact exercises like swimming or brisk walks to keep their joints lubricated and their muscles toned.
Remember: consult a veterinarian before starting any new exercise programme for your dog. They can help you determine which exercises are appropriate to your pooch’s individual needs and condition.
Joint care signs to look out for
Pay close attention to any sort of change in your dog’s personality or physical capabilities. The earlier an issue is addressed, the better the potential outcome. To stay on top of their health, some signs of joint issues to watch for in your dog include:
- Limping or stiffness
- Difficulty in jumping or climbing stairs
- Changes in behaviour
- Licking or chewing at the affected area
When to contact a professional
Trusting your instincts and acting promptly can significantly affect your dog’s recovery. If your dog continues to show signs of joint discomfort, then a trip to the vet is in order. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Hear from an expert how you can help with your dog’s mobility
Rebecca Wilkinson, a veterinary nurse and owner of Operation K9, a hydrotherapy business, tells us how to spot signs of discomfort in our beloved four-legged friends…
“Dogs are incredibly stoic and have adapted to hide discomfort so it can be hard to spot pain in an animal. But there are lots of other signs to be aware of, like struggling to get up after being laid down, appetite and behaviour changes, becoming more clingy or less interested in activities. There are also a lot more subtle signs such as posture and coat changes.”
Read our full expert interview with Rebecca here!
How to implement a joint-friendly lifestyle
Now that you know what signs to look out for, it’s time to make small changes that will significantly impact your dog’s comfort. In addition to specific treatments, consider the overall environment through which your pet navigates daily.
Here are some easy ways that you can support your pooch and provide them with extra comfort:
Create a comfortable and accessible space – make your home a haven by providing supportive bedding, avoiding slippery surfaces, and ensuring easy access to their favourite spots.
Improve mobility with fun toys – incorporate interactive toys that encourage movement and play within reason. Puzzle toys or gentle fetch games can keep your dog engaged physically without overstressing their joints.
Weight maintenance and monitoring – regular weigh-ins and diet adjustments can be effective in combating joint issues. A lean dog is a healthy dog with joints that can function without the encumbrance of excess weight.
Keep your dog happy and healthy with Green Pantry!
As we’ve discussed, caring for your dog’s joints is an ongoing commitment to their undiluted joy and freedom of movement. We hope we’ve answered your question: ‘What’s good for dog joints?’ Whether that’s preparing a nutrient-packed meal, engaging in a therapeutic session of tug-of-war, or simply spending quality time together, each step you take contributes to their long-term well-being.
Here at Green Pantry, we genuinely care about the well-being and health of your furry friend. That’s why all of our recipes are made up of 100% natural ingredients, targeting specific health issues that your pooch might face.
For more information, please get in contact with a member of our friendly team. Or, give us a call on 01553 811 320. We’d be more than happy to chat you through your dog’s condition and offer our expert advice!
