Joint support for dogs

Supporting your dog’s joint health can start with what you feed them.

Osteoarthritis is a common, progressive condition that can affect dogs of all ages, although the risk increases as dogs get older and is particularly relevant for larger breeds.

Although arthritis can’t be reversed, there are many ways to help support your pet’s joint health, mobility and quality of life. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight, eats well, and exercises appropriately is a great foundation for healthy joints, to keep them comfortable and active for as long as possible.

Can diet and nutrition help support dogs with joint pain?

Diet is one of the biggest contributing factors to chronic inflammation in our pets, with many highly processed pet foods alarmingly high in omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6's are known to contribute to low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, when consumed regularly.

Nutrition can play an important role in supporting dogs with joint and mobility issues, particularly through maintaining a healthy body condition and providing nutrients associated with joint health and that promote a healthy inflammatory response.

Including oily fish, like salmon, can provide a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These important fats help support a healthy inflammatory response and play an important role in overall health. Balancing out omega 6’s with omega 3’s will help support your dog’s body’s normal inflammatory processes.

A collagen-rich bone broth can be a valuable addition, particularly when it is made from high-quality, carefully selected ingredients. Slow-cooking bones and connective tissues creates a nutrient-rich broth containing naturally occurring collagen and amino acids, which are important building blocks for connective tissues throughout the body.

Raw whole food ingredients provide bioavailable, naturally occurring nutrients like antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.

Can weight affect my dog’s joints?

Absolutely. Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most important things you can do to support your dog’s joints. Excess body weight increases the mechanical load placed on joints, which can contribute to discomfort and make movement more difficult. Body fat is also metabolically active and produces compounds involved in inflammatory processes, ensuring your pet maintains a healthy weight is particularly important for dogs with joint issues. For dogs carrying extra weight, even a small amount of weight loss can make a meaningful difference to their pain and mobility.

A joint effort

There is no single ingredient or diet that can prevent or cure arthritis. But good nutrition can form an important part of a broader joint-care strategy.

A complete and balanced diet that supports a healthy bodyweight and provides beneficial nutrients, like omega 3’s, can help give dogs the nutritional foundation they need to keep moving.

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing newsupplements or medications or making changes to your pet’s treatment plan.