Joint Supplements for Dogs

How to Tell if Your Dog Needs a Joint Supplement

Dogs are quite good at covering up when they feel unwell; this is instinctive to them, so it's important to look for little signs of illness and discomfort to ensure you can help your pet when needed. Luckily, joint issues are some of the easiest to spot. 

Signs that your dog has joint problems include:

• Difficulty Moving - If your dog has trouble getting up, climbing stairs, or jumping, it could be a sign of joint discomfort or stiffness.
• Limping or Lameness - Persistent limping or favouring a specific leg may indicate joint pain or inflammation.
• Reduced Activity - If your dog is less willing to engage in physical activities they once enjoyed, such as playing fetch or going for walks, it could be due to joint discomfort.
• Stiffness, Swelling & Slowness - If your dog seems stiff or slow when walking or getting up from a resting position, it may be a sign of joint issues. You may also spot your dog licking their joints and they may even growl when if you touch the joint.

Any of these signs could mean your dog may benefit from joint supplements.

Reasons Your Dog May Need Joint Support

Dogs can get joint problems for a number of reasons. A common issue with older dogs is arthritis, just like humans. However, it's not just older dogs that need joint support.

Joint care for dogs, in the form of supplements, is a good idea no matter how young your dog is, as this can keep their joints healthy for longer. Larger dogs are commonly known to be susceptible to joint problems, as well as some breeds, such as Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Labradors and German Shepherds. Small breeds like Dashaunds and Chihuahuas also can suffer joint and mobility problems from a young age.

Supplementing these breeds at a young age can be beneficial. It's also a good idea to provide dog joint supplements if your pet is particularly active, as all that bouncing about can negatively affect joints in the long run. 

The Best Joint Supplements for Dogs

Our range of joint aid for dogs includes brands that are trusted & recommended by vets, so you can be sure your dog is getting the best supplement. 

When choosing the right joint aid for your dog, you may wonder what each ingredient does or what's good for your dog's joints. The main components you may see are: 

• Green-lipped mussel extract contains omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and other beneficial compounds. It has anti-inflammatory effects and can support joint health. A popular all-rounder joint aid for dogs is YuMOVE Joint Care Supplement for Adult Dogs, clinically proven to start working in 6 weeks.
• Glucosamine is a natural compound that helps promote cartilage production and support joint health, helping to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support joint repair and maintenance. A powerful supplement to aid in a dogs mobility is Seraquin® Chewable Glucosamine Joint Supplement Tablets, offering a chewable, palatable tablet for easy swallowing. 
• Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in the reduction of joint inflammation and pain. They are commonly found in fish oil supplements for dogs.
• Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine in joint supplements for dogs. It helps enhance the shock-absorbing properties of cartilage, improve joint lubrication, and inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage. A great, affordable supplement that offers Chrondroitin is Dorwest's Chrondroitin and Glucosamine supplement for dogs.
• Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain. Turmeric is easy to add & disguise in tasty homebaked treats, or you can try LickiMat® Sprinkles™ with Liver & Turmeric.

Glucosamine for Dogs

Glucosamine is a natural compound that is produced by the body. As dogs age, they may not produce as much as they need, resulting in stiffness & pain. Ensuring your dog has plenty of glucosamine can relieve senior dogs from arthritis and give younger dogs extra joint protection.

Can dogs have human glucosamine supplements?

While it is generally safe to give dogs glucosamine supplements, it is important to use supplements specifically formulated for dogs rather than human glucosamine supplements. 

Both humans and dogs can benefit from glucosamine, but there are a few reasons why it is recommended to use dog-specific products, including dosage, additional ingredients in human products, taste and bioavailability. Beaphar Glucosamine Easy Treats are specifically designed for dogs, with a palatable Turkey flavour for easy feeding. 

Dog Arthritis Supplements

Older dogs that are suffering from arthritis and other joint problems can find relief with joint supplements such as PDSA Joint Care Supplement Tablets for Dogs, a powerful, vet approved supplement to aid in slowing the progression of arthritis and reduce joint pain. Another popular and one of the best joint supplements for senior dogs is YuMOVE Joint Care Supplement for Senior Dogs. 

Many senior dog foods [NT/S1] will have extra joint support sprinkled in the ingredients, but some dogs may need extra support. Dog food for arthritis and mobility can be browsed from our range.

If your dog is severely suffering from arthritis, supplements may not be enough to relieve their pain. We also stock Metacam, which is an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. This joint aid is only available on prescription; we advise you to discuss prescription options with your vet before purchasing with us. 

Our range of dog joint supplements include products that are suitable for dog's young and old. These supplements can be given to give your dog relief, or as a preventative measure. If your dog's joint problem continues even with supplementing, speak to your vet.

Want to learn more about dog arthritis? Have a read of our informative blog on Understanding Arthiritis in Dogs. 

Remember to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any supplements. They can provide specific recommendations based on your dog's health condition, age, and breed, ensuring the appropriate dosage and formulation for your furry friend.

Read our vet-checked guide to learn more about How To Care For Your Dog's Joints.