There are tons of supplements out there claiming the ability to improve our pups’ joint health. But which ones are worth trying? Today, we’re on a mission to sniff out the best natural joint supplement for dogs!
An introduction to canine joint health
Joint problems are one of the most common wellbeing issues that older mutts experience. To understand why – and how an all-natural joint supplement for dogs could help – we need to know more about the way canine joints work.
Like ours, our pooches’ joints connect their bones, provide skeletal support and stability, and enable various forms of movement. Within each joint, they have a thin layer of cartilage that covers the bone and acts as a shock absorber. Joints also contain a small amount of synovial fluid, which provides lubrication and allows for smooth, pain-free movement.
Most joint issues in older dogs, such as osteoarthritis, arise because the cartilage begins to deteriorate. This can happen naturally due to age or be the result of an injury. As the cartilage becomes thinner, the surfaces of the bones rub against one another, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. The amount and/or quality of the synovial fluid may also decrease, leading to increased friction and swelling. All of which makes it harder for our furry friends to move around.
One reason conditions like arthritis are so widespread and irreversible is that damaged cartilage cannot normally repair itself. It doesn't have nerves or blood vessels, so it can't get the nutrients it needs to heal.(1)
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Organic Chia Seed Oil
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Organic Ashwagandha Powder
The best natural joint supplement for dogs is one that helps stimulate the synthesis of cartilage and prevent its breakdown. In addition, it should reduce inflammation and improve lubrication. While supplements won’t prevent or cure osteoarthritis, they can be useful for managing it and slowing its development. For them to provide the maximum benefit, you should combine them with other joint-friendly doggy lifestyle changes.
Does my dog need joint supplements?
Before we reveal the best natural joint supplements for dogs, let’s discuss how to know if your pet needs them. Some of the most common symptoms of joint problems in our pups include:
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Stiffness when they move, especially when getting up or after waking
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Moving more slowly
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Limping or having trouble walking
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Difficulty standing, sitting, lying down, or adopting a toileting position
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Avoiding physical activity
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Getting tired more quickly
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Changes in gait
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Struggling to climb stairs or jump
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Losing muscle and muscle tone
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Licking or chewing painful areas
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Swelling of the joints
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Audible creaking or popping in the joints
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Shaking
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pooch, take them to a vet. The earlier a joint problem is diagnosed, the better. The vet can prescribe medication if appropriate and advise you on which all-natural joint supplement for dogs to pick.
However, you don’t need to wait for a diagnosis of a condition like arthritis to feed your pet the best natural joint supplement for dogs. There’s also the option to give it to them as a preventative measure to delay the onset of joint problems. This may be especially beneficial for pups who are very active, overweight, or have a family history of arthritis. Certain breeds are also more susceptible to joint problems, including Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Most natural joint supplements for dogs are unlikely to cause side effects, and many vets recommend offering them to all adult pups. Having said that, all animals are individuals, so get personalised advice for your pet before making a decision.
What are the best natural joint supplements for dogs?
Evidence suggests that there are several viable contenders for the title of the best natural joint supplement for dogs! Here are some of the top options:
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are fantastic natural joint supplements for dogs because they possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. They can reduce pain and stiffness in pups with arthritis, which has a positive effect on their quality of life. For example, studies have found that arthritic dogs given omega-3 fatty acids are more comfortable and agile.(2)
There are three main types of omega-3 to choose from. First, there’s alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA, which comes from plant sources like chia seed oil and walnut oil. Then you have eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which you find in marine sources like fish oil. All offer benefits as supplements for dogs’ joints, but the body has to convert ALA into EPA or DHA first. As such, experts recommend opting for EPA or DHA for pups with conditions like arthritis.
Green-lipped mussels
One of the most popular natural joint supplements for dogs, green-lipped mussels are edible molluscs found in New Zealand. Taking their name from the distinctive jade edges on their shells, they’re bursting with a wealth of joint-friendly nutrients. As well as EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, they contain a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called eicosatetraenoic acid.
What’s more, green-lipped mussels (GLM) are rich in glucosamine and chondroitin. Glucosamine helps repair cartilage and prevent it from breaking down, while chondroitin provides elasticity and inhibits destructive enzymes. The two compounds work especially well together, making this a strong choice for the best natural joint supplement for dogs. Indeed, studies show that GLM can reduce pain and inflammation in pups with arthritis, plus increase their mobility.(3) The only caveat is that the ingredient is not suitable for animals who are allergic to shellfish.
Turmeric
This vibrant golden spice doubles as an all-natural joint supplement for dogs because of phytonutrients like curcumin. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant for our pooches, helping to reduce pain and stiffness. Curcumin suppresses certain cytokines that cause inflammation, and it may also lessen cartilage degradation. That explains why studies have found that turmeric offers benefits for animals with osteoarthritis, such as increased mobility.(4)
To add turmeric to your mutt’s diet, simply mix a little into their normal wet food. A good guideline is an eighth of a teaspoon per 5kg of their body weight. The spice is also a common ingredient in supplements for dogs’ joints.
Ashwagandha
Although perhaps better-known as a herb for easing anxiety in our pups, ashwagandha also has anti-inflammatory properties. As such, it deserves a place on the list of the best natural joint supplements for dogs. Studies show it can modulate the inflammation response, decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines while increasing anti-inflammatory ones.(5) This means the ingredient could help to reduce pain and increase mobility in animals with arthritis.
Adding ashwagandha powder to your pup’s normal wet food is the easiest way to feed them the herb. For ours, we recommend between an eighth and a quarter of a teaspoon per 10kg of their body weight. Check with your vet first to ensure it’s a suitable option for your pet.
CBD oil
CBD is another strong contender for the best natural joint supplement for dogs thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that the ingredient can significantly reduce pain and inflammation in pups with osteoarthritis, plus increase mobility.(6) However, research into CBD oil is still in the early stages, so chat with a vet to see if it’s suitable for your pooch.
To clear up any confusion, because CBD contains negligible amounts of THC, it does not get animals high. And you should always choose a product that’s specifically designed for pets – no sharing!
Collagen
One of the main building blocks of cartilage, collagen’s a logical choice for the best natural joint supplement for dogs. It helps to cushion and strengthen joints, repair cartilage, reduce inflammation, and boost mobility. Studies suggest the ingredient can ease pain and improve joint flexibility in mutts with arthritis, increasing their quality of life.(7)
Type II collagen is the most effective variety for supporting canine joint health. You can add it to your pup’s diet by offering them bone broth or special collagen chews.
Other ways to keep your dog’s joints healthy
To get the optimum benefit from these natural joint supplements for dogs, combine their use with the following tips:
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Help your pet maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on their joints, exacerbating pain and inflammation.
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If your pooch struggles on walks, consider a low-impact form of exercise like swimming.
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Ramps can be useful for pups who find it difficult to jump up into the car or onto the bed.
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Slippery floors may add stress to your mutt’s joints, so think about putting down an anti-skid rug.
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Elevated food bowls could be helpful if your dog finds it hard to eat from floor level.
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Complementary therapies like acupuncture and massage can be effective ways to ease pain and increase mobility.
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The cold often worsens joint pain, so ensure your furry friend always has a warm spot to nap in. Many pet parents find memory foam beds are especially comfy for arthritic pups.
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As well as the best natural joint supplement for dogs, you can feed your pooch commercial dog food specifically designed to support joint health.
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Speak to your vet about pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs if appropriate.
Can you walk a dog who has joint problems?
Yes, you can – and should – walk a dog who has arthritis or other joint problems. However, the style of walkies you and your pup go on might need to change slightly. You’ll probably notice that your mutt walks more slowly and gets tired more quickly. As such, taking shorter and more frequent strolls is preferable to going on longer ones less often. Keep a close eye on your furry friend so you know how long they can walk for without pain. If they’re very stiff the next day, they may have walked too much. Speak to your vet for help devising a personalised exercise plan for your pooch.
How effective are the best natural joint supplements for dogs?
Functional foods and supplements can’t prevent or cure conditions like osteoarthritis. However, they could help delay their onset, slow their development, and manage their symptoms. Research has found several natural joint supplements for dogs can reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and increase mobility in arthritic pups. You’re also able to give them to healthy animals as a preventative measure.
To ensure your furry friend gets the best results, combine supplements with prescribed medication if a vet advises you to. Complementary therapies and lifestyle factors like getting gentle exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are also important. Finally, organic joint supplements for dogs don’t work instantly. Consistency is key, so make them a regular part of your pet’s diet. This kind of holistic approach should help get your pooch’s tail wagging freely again!
Frequently asked questions
How long do natural joint supplements for dogs take to work?
The length of time it takes to see results from supplements for dogs’ joints will vary depending on several factors. These include the condition of your pet’s joints, the supplement you choose, and how consistently you feed it to them. However, as a general guideline, you can expect to notice a difference in about a month or six weeks. To get results as quickly as possible, give the supplement to your pooch every day. You should also combine its use with other joint-friendly lifestyle changes for the best outcome.
Can dogs take natural joint supplements with arthritis medication?
You can usually give most all-natural hip and joint supplements for dogs to your pet alongside prescribed arthritis medication. However, this will depend on the specific supplement and medication in question. As such, you should always consult your vet before adding a supplement to your pooch’s diet if they’re on medication. They’ll be able to advise you on the best options for your pet’s individual needs.
Do organic joint supplements for dogs have side effects?
Most natural hip and joint supplements for dogs are safe for long-term use. However, they may cause some minor side effects at first. The most common of these are digestive troubles like vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, gas, and appetite loss. To reduce the chance of your pet experiencing these, begin with a low dose of your chosen supplement. If your pup has an existing health condition or is taking any medication, speak to a vet before giving them new supplements.
