Understanding Joint Health for Dogs

We all want to see our furry friends thrive! Whether you have an energetic puppy who loves to romp through the yard or a senior dog with an affinity for their daily walk, dogs of all ages rely on their joints to stay active, comfortable, and happy. Learn how to manage joint health for dogs and identify potential issues with these simple, proactive steps.

Causes of Dog Joint Issues

A wide variety of factors have been linked to joint issues. While research isn’t conclusive on the exact causes of some mobility problems, many scientists believe a dog’s body type and history can play a role. Factors that are believed to impact joint health for dogs include:

• Body shape – Especially in large dogs, body shape can place unhealthy amounts of pressure on one or more joints.
• Obesity – Extra weight often yields negative consequences for a dog’s joints over time.
• Past injury history – Dogs who injured a joint in the past may be more susceptible to joint issues.
• Exercise – Physical activity can help keep a dog’s joints flexible over time, while a lack of exercise can contribute to joint stiffness.

Signs & Symptoms of Joint Issues

Dogs who encounter mobility issues, tender joints, or lethargy typically show signs that they are experiencing discomfort. Look for the following signs of joint issues:
• Decreases in daily exercise or willingness to play
• Difficulty standing, sitting, or lying down
• Reluctance to climb or descend stairs
• Sustained periods of paw licking
• Trembling or visible limping
• Refusal to place weight on one or more limbs

These signs may become more prevalent with age and could indicate your dog needs connective tissue support from dietary changes, new exercise routines, or other lifestyle adjustments.

What to Do If Your Dog Has a Joint Issue

If you suspect your dog may be experiencing joint or mobility issues, consult your veterinarian. Medical professionals can help assess your dog’s needs in light of their signs and will help you determine the optimal path forward. Once diagnosed, your veterinarian can develop a plan personalized to your dog to help them live their best life!

Promoting Joint Health for Dogs

There’s plenty you can do to help your pooch maintain healthy joints or manage mobility issues. Options can include:

• Diet changes to ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight and receives sufficient nutrition
• Hip and joint supplements for dogs that help minimize stress points
• Dog vitamins that help support bones and immune functionality
• Activity plans that promote healthy movement without further injuring joints, even if you need to exercise your dog indoors

Different situations call for different types of solutions. Joint supplements for dogs or diet changes are often effective for mild, exercise-related joint discomfort. In more severe cases, veterinary clinics and canine specialists can provide therapy and medical support as signs mature.

Related: What Kinds of Joint Supplements Are Good for Dogs?

Treatment options such as physical activity and advanced formula hip and joint supplements help to delay mobility and joint issues, promote health, and prepare your pet for the years to come.

Have a senior dog? Care for your aging pet and their joints by optimizing their diet, activity, and mental exercise to support cartilage formation. Regular movement and safe dog playtime will become even more important as your dog enters their golden years, which help keep weight under control. Even if your dog can no longer sprint, they may still enjoy lighter physical activity. Consider taking your dog for a walk or swim.

No matter your pup’s age, make sure to maintain outdoor safety with your dog when exercising away from home.

Hooray for Healthy Joints!

Maintaining mobility will help your dog lead an active lifestyle and continue to relish their favorite activities. Even small tweaks to your pup’s routine, such as giving them a supplement or spending a few extra minutes of playtime together, can help them stave off potential joint issues and feel their best!