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If you've noticed that your dog has been moving a bit more slowly than usual or suddenly a bit less active, it's worth checking in with your vet to rule out joint issues as the cause. Joint discomfort in dogs can be quite common, but it's not always easy for owners to spot. In this article, we'll discuss the symptoms and treatment options such as dog vitamins and joint supplements for dogs. We'll also offer some tips on how to help keep your pup's joints healthy and pain-free.

What Causes Joint Soreness in Dogs? 

Several things can cause tenderness in our pet's joints. The most common cause is arthritis, which can develop as they age. Other causes include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and ligament or tendon injuries. 

Their breed may also play a part in the prevalence of pet mobility issues. Larger breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds may be more likely to suffer from joint problems due to their size and weight. However, it can also be the dog's genetic predisposition or specific lineage that influences their bodies to develop these debilitating health concerns. 

Being obese can also exacerbate joint health issues. Carrying around excess weight puts added strain on your dog's joints, leading to joint and overall bone degradation for our friendly pooches. 

Symptoms of Joint Soreness in Dogs 

The most common symptom of degrading joint health in dogs is a change in activity level. For example, if your dog is typically very active and you notice that they're starting to slow down, it's worth considering joint health as a possible cause. Other symptoms of compromised joint health in dogs include: 

• Limping or favoring one leg 
• Difficulty getting up or lying down 
• Stiffness or difficulty moving 
• Swelling around the joints
• Decreased appetite 
• Difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position 
• Reluctance to play 

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's vital to make an appointment with your vet. They will be able to perform a physical examination and may order X-rays or other tests to diagnose the ongoing health concern.   

Treatment for Joint Discomfort in Dogs 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis and the other causes of joint and bone discomfort in canines. However, there are things we can do to help manage their symptoms and make them more comfortable. Treatment options for joint soreness in dogs include: 

Weight management: If your dog is overweight, helping them lose weight can take pressure off of their joints and help to reduce soreness. Always check to make sure there are not any excess calories in the food, treats, and remedies they are getting.

Exercise: It may seem counterintuitive, but appropriate exercise is essential for dogs with joint issues. Exercise helps keep the joints lubricated and can help prevent further joint damage.

Joint supplements: There are a number of joint supplements for dogs available that can improve bone support and healing. We’ll dig deeper into this later on. 

Medication: In some cases, your vet may prescribe medication to help manage the discomfort on your pet's joints and bones, but it’s always recommended to try naturally derived remedies first.

The Best Dog Vitamins and Joint Supplements for Dogs

Some of the most popular joint supplements for dogs in the market are ones that contain a combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, but these are now commonly found in many forms on the marketplace and there are new novel formulations that can complement these ingredients for optimized outcomes. Together, all of these ingredients work to repair cartilage and improve muscle recovery. 

Some hip and joint supplements for dogs include ingredients that aim to reduce swelling and counteract the body's natural responses to arthritis that cause discomfort. For example, Turmacin, the first water soluble compound derived from turmeric is slowly gaining traction as an effective herbal ingredient for holistic products focused on improving hip and joint health. Other compounds such as grape seed extract, Boswellia Serrata, and Terminalia Chebula sooth joint stiffness while targeting its root causes such as collagen-induced arthritis. And since exercise and weight management are part of the proactive approach to preventing these unwanted health concerns, increasing energy levels and mood support can go a long way in helping their bones stay healthy. It is important, therefore, to choose supplements with a holistic approach to improving our beloved pet’s joint health. Herbal products are a great way to keep your pup's joints healthy and pain-free. If you think your dog may be experiencing joint discomfort, make an appointment with your holistic vet or pet nutritionist to discuss options that don't just treat the symptoms but the underlying causes. 

Prevention 

As always, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. So, even if your furry friends don't display any signs of joint discomfort yet, it's essential to give them holistic nutrition that includes their joint health in the table of benefits. 

Giving them joint supplements for dogs with even before joint discomfort shows up, for example, can help slow down its onset even if they have a genetic predisposition. Antioxidants also block certain enzymes that are believed to cause joint sensitivity and tenderness. 

Final Thoughts 

Joint health issues are common in canines, especially large breeds of dogs. Luckily, there are many things we can do to help manage their symptoms and make them more comfortable. Treatment options include weight management, exercise, joint supplements, and medication. 

Including joint supplements in your dog's diet is a proactive approach to your dog's joint health. By doing so, you can help slow down the onset of joint discomfort and improve their overall health. Holistic ingredients with antioxidants can also help to block enzymes that cause joint sensitivity and tenderness, preventing even congenital joint health issues.  

By adding these components to their daily nutrition, you may just be able to prevent potential mobility issues and help them thrive even in their golden years.

For educational purposes. No product claims implied.