What Is Good for Dogs’ Hips & Joints: 4 Ways to Tackle Pain and Discomfort
Not all dog injuries are visible—some are evident through their actions. When your dog starts to slow down or seems less interested in playing, this can indicate a problem in the hips or joints.
But how can you help your furry friend? What’s good for dogs’ hips and joints?
Why Do Hip and Joint Problems Happen?
There isn’t a single reason for a dog to develop joint or hip problems. These health issues can occur due to age, injury, or congenital problems. Common conditions connected to this kind of pain in dogs include hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, hip/joint dislocation, arthritis, and injuries that never healed properly.
What Helps a Dog’s Hips and Joints?
You can try a few options to strengthen your dog’s hips and joints and ease its pain.
Supplements
Supplements are highly effective in keeping a dog’s joints and hips healthy. When choosing options for your furry friend, look for supplements that contain these ingredients:
*Chondroitin sulfate: Found in dog and human cartilage, this chemical helps with lubrication and shock absorption and protects the cartilage from deterioration.
*Glucosamine: Dogs naturally produce this amino acid in their bodies, although the production slows as part of aging. Its purpose is to maintain cartilage by encouraging new growth and ensuring sufficient thickness to cushion the joints.
*Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): This is a natural form of sulfur that helps build, maintain, and improve the cells in your dog’s body.
*Omega-3s: With natural anti-inflammatory properties, these fatty acids can ease joint and hip pain in dogs, making it easier for them to move. You can find omega-3s in ingredients like fish oil and green-lipped mussels.
*Turmeric: This spice is safe for humans and dogs alike. It contains curcumin, which is both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory to ease pain and promote better healing.
Exercise
While your furry friend may not want to move, moving around can actually ease hip and joint pain. Create a low-impact exercise program, such as walking or swimming, to improve joint mobility and maintain muscle mass.
A Healthy Weight
If your dog is overweight, the extra weight could cause pain due to excess pressure on the joints and hips. Work on getting your pup to a healthy weight with the support of your veterinarian.
Keep Your Dog Moving Smoothly
By taking these steps, you should notice a change in your dog. It may take a while, but with patience, you can ease the pain and bring Fido back to his playful and happy self.
