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Maintaining lean body weight and encouraging regular exercise are key to keeping joints healthy, but nutritional supplements can also improve joint comfort and protect cartilage, the cushioning in joints that stops bone from rubbing on bone when your dog moves.
As our furry friends age or encounter physical challenges, joint health becomes a critical concern that can significantly affect their quality of life. While exercise and regular veterinary care are essential, the role of nutrition in supporting joint health cannot be overstated. The right balance of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, can make all the difference in your dog’s mobility and comfort. In this article, we will explore the best dog foods formulated specifically to support joint health, making it easier for you to make an informed decision for your four-legged companion.
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Best Overall: ORIJEN REGIONAL RED Dry Dog Food ($33)
Best Less-Expensive: Purina ONE Joint Health with Chicken Dry Dog Food
Best Overall Supplement: Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint ($37)
Best Treats: Bocce’s Bakery Hip Daily Support ($10)
Best Powder: Missing Link Original All Natural Superfood ($15)
Best Omega 3: Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid ($20)
Price at the time of publish: $33 (4.5 lb)
The ORIJEN formula comprises 85% fresh or dehydrated animal protein, encompassing meat, organs, and cartilage. ORIJEN aims to emulate the natural diet of dogs to deliver optimal nutrition across all life stages. It is a biologically appropriate formulation known for its delectable taste, universally adored by dogs.
This grain-free recipe incorporates beef, boar, bison, lamb, pork, and pilchard as the primary animal protein sources. Additionally, it features the wholesome inclusion of legumes, fruits, and vegetables. This makes it an excellent choice for dogs with grain allergies or those averse to poultry-based formulas. However, it may not be suitable for dogs with renal issues due to its high protein content, and it is not specifically formulated for puppies or seniors.
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Price at the time of publish: $17 (5 lb)
Make sure your cherished canine friend gets the nutrition they deserve by opting for Purina ONE Plus Joint Health Formula Natural Dry Dog Food with Added Vitamins, Minerals, and Nutrients! This high-quality dog food, crafted with natural ingredients, features real chicken as its main component and boasts a rich protein content.
Enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, calcium, and four varieties of antioxidants, it offers comprehensive support for a healthy heart, muscles, joints, skin, coat, teeth, and immune system. Rest easy knowing that this tasty formula is free from fillers, and even the most discerning four-legged companions will eagerly enjoy its tempting flavor.
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Price at time of publish: $37/132 tablets
Each chewable tablet comprises 600 mg of glucosamine HCI sourced from shellfish and 300 mg of chondroitin extracted from bovine cartilage. Additionally, it incorporates 250 mg of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), recognized as an anti-inflammatory supplement utilized by some individuals with osteoarthritis.
These tablets are suitable for dogs of all sizes. While it’s essential to consult your vet, Nutramax suggests initiating a higher dosage for the initial 4-6 weeks and then transitioning to a lower maintenance level. For instance, a 40-pound dog would commence with two tablets daily and then reduce to one tablet.
The product is offered in bottles containing 75, 132, or 250 tablets. It is also accessible in varying concentrations of standard and double strength, diverse formulations, as well as soft chews and capsules.
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Price at time of publish: $30 (90 count)
Zesty Paws offers a comprehensive range of dog supplements, and among them are products specifically designed to promote joint health. Their Hip and Joint Mobility Bites, shaped like hearts, are chewable treats enriched with ingredients that support joint well-being. Each chew contains 450 mg of glucosamine HMI, 400 mg of MSM, and 125 mg of chondroitin. Additionally, they are infused with kelp, vitamin C, and vitamin E. These supplements are free from artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors, and they are crafted without the inclusion of grain, corn, or soy.
Suitable for dogs of all ages and sizes, the recommended starting dosage is one supplement for dogs weighing up to 25 pounds. There are various formulations of this supplement, catering to different needs, such as one designed for seniors, a vet-strength version, and some featuring the added nutritional benefits of mussels or hemp. An additional recommendation from Zesty Paws is their 8-in-1 Multifunctional Bites, our preferred choice for addressing eight diverse health benefits in dogs, ranging from joint function to skin health. While these contain smaller amounts of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, they also boast the inclusion of cod liver oil, a vitamin blend, digestive enzymes, and beneficial bacteria for optimal gut health.
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Price at time of publish: $10
Bocce’s Bakery specializes in crafting a variety of limited-ingredient crunchy treats, featuring distinctive “B” shapes and a range of flavors. Their peanut butter recipe, in particular, is designed to promote hip and joint health. Comprising only three ingredients—oat flour, peanut butter, and glucosamine—these treats boast a minimum of 800 mg/kg of glucosamine content.
These treats undergo oven-baking in small batches within the United States. Bocce’s Bakery prioritizes locally sourced ingredients and ensures the absence of by-products, fillers, or wheat in their treats. While the feeding instructions are somewhat general, suggesting these treats be given as snacks or treats within a balanced diet, it’s advised to be mindful of the caloric content. Each crunchy treat provides 12 calories, making it crucial to consider these calories, especially for smaller or overweight dogs.
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Price at time of publish: $15 (8 ounces)
The Missing Link Hip and Joint Powder is a comprehensive blend of joint support ingredients, leaving no stone unturned. With 440 mg of glucosamine, 250 mg of MSM, and 100 mg of chondroitin, this powder goes beyond by incorporating flaxseed as its primary ingredient, renowned for its omega fatty acids content. Additionally, it includes kelp, taurine, hyaluronic acid, and a host of other beneficial components.
Measuring the powder ensures accurate dosing, and its powdered form offers the most direct means of delivering essential nutrients. The dosage typically starts small, gradually reaching the recommended maintenance dose of 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of body weight. It can be conveniently sprinkled onto wet food or kibble. For dry food, mixing it with a bit of broth or water is suggested to enhance absorption into the pieces.
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Price at time of publish: $20 (8 ounces)
Omega-3 fatty acids are frequently recommended for promoting skin and coat health, and beyond that, they prove beneficial for joint health, alleviating pain, and reducing stiffness. Incorporating these essential nutrients into your dog’s diet is made convenient through fish oil supplements such as those from Nordic Naturals. Crafted from wild-caught anchovies and sardines, these supplements adhere to ethical and sustainable production practices, undergoing third-party testing for purity verification.
The supplements come in liquid and capsule forms, offering flexibility in administration. The liquid variant allows for direct application on your pup’s food or can be dispensed into their mouth using the dropper. For dogs less enthusiastic about capsule consumption, a touch of peanut butter or a pill treat can make the process more palatable. Optimal bottle size selection is based on your dog’s weight, with 2 ounces recommended for dogs under 20 pounds and 8 or 16 ounces for those weighing 20 pounds and above.
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The top pick among canine joint supplements is Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement, renowned for its combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), and hyaluronic acid (HA), frequently endorsed by veterinarians. Additionally, Zesty Paws Hip and Joint Mobility Bites stand out as an excellent alternative. These soft, heart-shaped chews are enriched with joint-protective components, presenting another compelling option for supporting canine joint health.
When considering a hip and joint dog food, it’s crucial to focus on specific key ingredients rather than fixating on a particular brand. These ingredients play a pivotal role in supporting your dog’s hip and joint health:
Essential omega-3 fatty acids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are crucial for maintaining healthy joints and bones in dogs. These healthy fats combat inflammation and offer additional benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease while supporting vision and brain development, particularly in the early years. Joint-protective diets, which incorporate these fatty acids, provide a highly effective method for absorption, ensuring optimal support for your dog’s digestive health.
Dogs require both calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone development, with the correct ratio being 1.4 to 1, according to recent research. Excessive amounts of either mineral can lead to adverse effects, necessitating careful attention to the ratio in your dog’s diet. Checking the label for nutrient and caloric content breakdown on dog food bags or online helps ensure the proper balance.
The quality of animal protein is paramount, and not all proteins in pet food are equal. Opt for high-quality proteins found in muscle and organ meat, as they contain natural elements like glucosamine, fatty acids, and omega-3s.
Be cautious of meat “meals” derived from highly processed meat, such as chicken meal, which may lack nutritional density and include non-meat animal parts.
Omega-3 fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), are essential for hip and joint health in dogs, supporting cognitive function across all life stages.
Ingredients like ground flaxseed, chia seeds, green vegetables, and sweet potatoes, which contain ALA, complement EPA and DHA for comprehensive fatty acid support.
Dogs frequently suffer from joint diseases, and chronic conditions often come with significant pain and a progressive decrease in mobility.
One prevalent joint ailment is hip dysplasia, posing a burden for both dogs and their owners. In hip dysplasia, the hip joint becomes deformed, with alterations in the thigh bone’s head and the hip socket, causing a misalignment. Consequently, the joint and cartilage undergo increasing wear and tear.
While hip dysplasia can potentially affect any dog, it is particularly common in large breeds. Breeds with a hereditary predisposition include the German Shepherd and Rottweiler. Various factors contribute to the development of hip dysplasia, including genetic predisposition and frequent musculoskeletal overloads. Activities like regular stair climbing or inappropriate movements can strain the joint, leading to damage over time, especially if the dog is exposed to such stressors at a young age.
To prevent such strain, it is crucial to ensure that your dog engages in age- and breed-appropriate physical activity. Nutrition also plays a significant role. Substandard diets may result in rapid growth in puppies, outpacing the development of their bones and joints. Regardless of age, adjusting the dog’s diet to meet its specific nutritional needs is essential for maintaining overall health.
Overweight poses a considerable strain on joints and can significantly contribute to the development of hip dysplasia. Therefore, prompt attention to weight reduction for your dog is essential. Achieve this through a tailored amount of high-quality dog food, coupled with our natural dietary powder, Shiimun Slim, crafted with selected ingredients to support your furry friend’s diet.
Hip dysplasia induces severe pain, leading to a noticeable decline in your dog’s mobility over time. An uncertain gait is a typical indicator, with the dog attempting to relieve its legs, moving slowly during walks, and taking frequent breaks. As the condition progresses, activities like lying down and standing up become increasingly challenging. In severe cases, permanent paralysis of the affected joints may occur intermittently.
If you observe any suspicious behavior in your dog, it is recommended to promptly consult a veterinarian. Although the condition may not be entirely curable, timely treatment is crucial. Early intervention can significantly delay or prevent a worsening of the situation.
Treatment typically involves a combination of approaches. Medications can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, while physiotherapy aids in relieving stress on the affected joints. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, such as the use of implants to alleviate symptoms and restore normal mobility.
In addition to veterinary treatment and physiotherapy, many dog owners now turn to specialized supplements containing substances like collagen and hyaluronic acid found in joint cartilage and synovial fluid. While not a substitute for treating dogs with hip dysplasia, such supplements can be a valuable supportive measure, both during conservative treatment and post-surgery.
When is the optimal time to commence joint supplements for dogs?
The initiation of joint supplements for your dog need not be postponed until signs of discomfort arise in their joints. According to veterinarian Lisa Chimes, starting supplements early in the progression of joint disease is most beneficial, preventing irreversible joint damage. It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian and adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines based on your dog’s weight.
Are joint supplements secure, and do they entail side effects?
The impact of supplements can vary depending on your dog’s response to both active and inactive ingredients. Veterinarian Lisa Chimes suggests evaluating each supplement individually and engaging in a discussion with your vet regarding your dog’s joint condition and overall health. Some supplements may result in side effects such as weight gain and gastrointestinal disturbances, particularly at higher doses. This emphasizes the importance of consulting with your vet to ensure safety.
Can a dog experience an overdose of joint supplements?
Similar to medications, dogs are susceptible to overdosing on supplements. Veterinarian Lisa Chimes highlights the possibility of overdose when combining supplements with prescription diets, as certain ingredients may overlap. Consulting with your vet becomes crucial in determining the appropriate supplement doses for your dog, considering their diet, medications, and overall health status.
In the quest for top-notch joint supplements for dogs, we delved into various brands, examining active and inactive ingredients, flavor options, dosage specifications, and user feedback. Our exploration extended to discussions with pet owners, veterinarians, and foster caregivers to gain insights into their practices regarding canine supplementation and the key factors they prioritize.
This informative piece was thoroughly researched and crafted by Jane Smith, a seasoned writer with a dedicated focus on animal welfare and pets spanning multiple decades. Jane has been actively involved in fostering over 60 dogs and puppies, complemented by the companionship of her senior rescue dog. Recently initiating the supplementation journey for her aging canine companion, Jane harbors genuine concerns regarding ingredient quality and potential side effects. Her perpetual quest involves identifying the healthiest and most efficacious products, ranging from premium dog treats to canine supplements, ensuring optimal well-being for her beloved pets.
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