We all know that our four-legged companions experience joint pain in their old age, just as we humans do. However, sadly, the cause of joint issues in dogs is not limited to the old age but covers a much broader scope. It may be due to congenital disorders, hormonal changes, arthritis, Lyme disease, fractures, obesity, hip-dysplasia, etc.

To avoid such consequences that lead to joint pain, responsible dog parents must ensure to take good care of their dog’s joint health. But then how can you keep a dog’s joints healthy? What care should you take to prevent joint disorders in their later age? And, there are countless other questions that strike our minds while considering the joint health of dogs. To put an end to your worries, we've included a few pointers on how to take great care for your dog's joints.

KEEPING YOUR DOG's JOINTS HEALTHY

In order to keep your paw-buddies dancing, you must emphasize taking care of certain aspects that directly relate to the joint health. Some of these aspects are as below:

Maintaining The Ideal Weight

Weight is one of the most crucial factors for joint health. If your dog is overweight, it is more likely to suffer from joint problems as the joints account for the strain provided by the whole weight of the body. Large breeds that are naturally heavy also tend to suffer from joint pain. Hence, it is essential to maintain the ideal weight of your dogs by watching their diet and feeding them meals full of nutrition.

Optimum Exercise

While too much exercise in working breeds can lead to overexertion, sluggish dogs may fall victim to stiff joints (and obesity, of course). Therefore, it is essential not to over-exercise your dog, or to encourage their lethargic nature either. Furthermore, emphasize more on exercises that do not cause strain to the joints; say for example, swimming. If your dog is suffering from joint pain or any joint related disorders, be sure to be gentle with them.

Natural Joint Supplements:

Several compounds are known to be essential key components for joint functioning. Such components are generally sourced through nutritious food but if a dog fails to take proper diet, it may lead to the deficiency of these components. Therefore, in attempt to provide the key components for joint functioning, some natural products or readily available supplements can be beneficial. Some of these natural ingredients are as listed below:

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin:

  They are the two most important components of cartilages. Glucosamine helps forming molecules that are important for joint functioning, and reduces joint pain and inflammation. Whereas, Chondroitin keeps the dog’s joints cushioned. A home-made bone broth is an excellent source of both these components. Moreover, experts also suggest the use of commercially available supplements for joint care like Dorwest’s Glucosamine and Chondroitin Tablets for Dogs and Cats, Lamberts Glucosamine Complex for Dogs and Cats, Arithmed Powder and Arithmed Tablet .

• Turmeric:

  Turmeric is known as a remedy for tons of diseases nowadays. The key component of turmeric, known as curcumin, is known to out-perform the effects of pain-killer, anti-inflammatory, and steroids. Curcumin decreases inflammation and also relieves pain and stiffness. You can add up to 1/4th tsp organic turmeric per 10lbs of your dog’s body weight to his daily meals. However, dogs that are “hot”, who seek cooler places to lie down, may not do well with turmeric because of its warming properties.

• CBD oil:

  CBD oil is a product of cannabis plant. However, it is different from marijuana which contains high level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD oil should have less than 0.3% of THC, or else it can make your dog high! But it will give a major relief from pain and it is also good for treating seizures, anxiety, and fighting cancer. All cannabinoid products are different, and different dogs have different cannabinoid receptors, so always start from low dosages and build up to dose that work for your dog.

• Green Lipped Mussels:

  Perna canaliculus, also known as green lipped mussels contains natural glucosamine, which can repair joint damage, and reduce pain and inflammation. GLM is available as whole freeze-dried powder and can help regenerate synovial fluid and repair damaged cartilages too. Moreover, research has also shown that it can manage arthritis without any side effects of drugs.

Sometimes, taking care of these little things can be beneficial in long-term and can keep your paw-buddy away from painful joint disorders. Always remember, you have the control of your dog’s health. Keep these little things in mind and save them from the slightest discomforts, because all they deserve is a healthy and a happy life!