Top 5 Natural Recommendations for Dog Arthritis

Does your pooch have a hiccup in their giddy up?  Noticing slight changes in their personality?

Through plenty of trials and research, we have an abundance of information for ideas on how to get your dog's groove back!  

(This article may contain affiliate links where we get a small commission at no cost to you. 

These are always our honest recommendations.)

Joint health, stability, and mobility are a vital part of our dog's daily life, just as they are for us!  If there is an ache or snag in your dog's joints, they may not feel quite like doing the every day things that they used to love.

These five recommendations are helpful for dog arthritis, but are also advantageous for overall healthy, happy tails! 

Continue reading for all of the details on natural approaches to helping keep your pooch pouncing along each day!

Food and diet management.

While managing your dog's diet can help prevent or reduce risk of allergies, obesity, dental disease, digestive issues, and arthritis to name a few, it can also often improve both their quality and quantity of life!  AND along with all of these happy benefits, you can save time and the money in your wallet with less frequent visits to the vet or prescribed medications for treatment.

Viking Dog Diet is OUR FAVORITE.  It is a powerful yet simple method of feeding dogs an all natural and nutritious diet that may help dogs recover from new or persistent health problems!  Their process is 'No silly ingredients, no complicated time consuming recipes, and no BS'.  

And be sure to check out their case study for Cara who had significant arthritis...  along with many others!

Exercise.

Most dogs have a love language with play.  And some can't get enough!  So it can be difficult when this changes because of arthritis or other health problems.  While proper diet and nutrition can help aid in weight management, a proper regimen of exercise is also key.

Just like people, dogs who have joint pain will benefit from daily walks (preferably on even terrain) or swimming, if feasible.  For smaller dogs, there are also carrier slings that you can use once your pooch fatigues.  The fresh air and time with you also matters!  

We also recommend getting comfortable gear to making walking a little easier for you both- such as a harness, padded leash, or this innovative roller ball water bottle (think 'hamster water dispenser', but bigger for your dog!).

Your vet may also have exercise recommendations specific to your dog's condition, and it is worth asking because of all of the benefits!

Nutraceuticals.

Supplements that have medical or health benefits are often referred to as nutraceuticals.  The main objective of most joint health supplements is to strengthen your dog's joints, reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Here are a few natural options that are key elements in joint health and many other aspects of the body:

• Glucosamine- This is the building block of the cartilage structure. This compound is also responsible for cartilage cell growth used to normalize the fluid in charge of lubricating the joints.
• Chondroitin- Chondroitin sulfate helps in maintaining the thickness of your dog’s natural joint lubrication.  It gives structure to the dog’s cartilage and gives compression resistance.
• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)- An anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that can help rebuild soft tissue.
• Fish Oils- Rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids, decrease inflammation.
• Collagen- Can improve mobility in dogs afflicted with arthritis. It's a natural supplement that helps to lubricate and protect connective tissues that support the hips and joint health. 

          HappyDays wins best choice in this category for us!  (we even love the                name!)  It maintains your dogs biosynthesis on a cellular level for                        increased immunity, improved movement, decreased joint pain, reduced              inflammation, and youthful cell renewal! 

• CBD Oil- This is a cannabinoid that has gotten much attention as an anti-inflammatory.  Ask your vet and do some research to check dosages and recommendations. 
• Hyaluronic Acid- This aids in plumping the cartilage the lines each joint, providing a cushioning type effect.

Our best recommendation for Joint Health Supplement, established for nearly 20 years and used widely in over180 countries, is Flexicose Plus for Pets.   It is not only inclusive of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and fish oils, but it is human-grade and includes a trademarked Flexibility Complex.  Also, depending on the weight of your pooch, one bottle can last nearly a year!  

Alternative Medicine or Devices.

• Acupuncture-  Often used to alleviate joint pain by lessening inflammation and aiding in healing.  Many acupuncturists who work on people will are also certified to work with pets.
• Adaptive or Compensatory Devices-  As Rehab Specialists, we are always thinking of ways to complete daily tasks, especially if we have a health issue that is making things a little more challenging.

         This foldable combined set of dog stairs and ramp are an amazing option           for getting up and down from your vehicle or furniture.  They fold for easy           storage, adjust to ramp or steps, and have a non-skid surface.  

         Another affordable option is an elevated food and water bowl. Our most               liked is this modern, practical and cost-friendly option that also                             offers a 15 degree tilt for an especially ergonomic design!  Check them               out on amazon for quick delivery to your door.

• Cold Laser Therapy-  This laser treatment uses a deep penetrating light to promote a sequence of chemical reactions to release endorphins and stimulates.  It's theory is to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the affected areas, encouraging healing and relief.
• Orthopedic Braces-  Depending on the area of injury or ailment, there are braces that can help provide support and stability for your dog.  They can also help alleviate pressure on the joints.

Regular care and check ups.

Checking in with your vet for regular wellness visits is always recommended for prevention and/or early intervention for your dog's overall health.  

You can also refer to our recent blog post about different types of dog arthritis, including common symptoms, here.

We hope that you've found this information useful!  And we also wish you and your dog MUCH success in helping find the combination of strategies that work best to manage joint related health concerns.