With the arrival of spring come warmer temperatures, leaving way for cooped up canines to spend more time outdoors. This time of year, it is particularly important for dog owners to pay attention to their pet’s joint health and mobility. These issues in particular can greatly reduce a dog’s quality of life, leading to much pain and discomfort.
Did you know? Mobility problems are a leading cause for euthanasia in dogs that may otherwise be in good general health. Thankfully, there are many ways to effectively help our precious pooches maintain strong and healthy joints. Knowing what to look for, how you can help, and how to take a proactive approach are key.
Signs Your Dog May Have Joint and Mobility Problems:
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Stiffness after getting up from a nap, or from a laying down position
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Hesitation to climb stairs or difficulty getting onto the couch
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Losing stamina during walks, or slowing their pace
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Panting or drooling while at rest (this is a pain coping mechanism)
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Excessive licking or chewing on and around sore joints, such as ankles and elbows
It is a biological instinct for many pack animals to conceal illness or injury. In the wild, pack animals – like wolves – who show weakness are eventually left behind or killed. This mentality from their wild ancestors has been passed down to many of our domesticated pets, and is why being proactive towards joint health is so essential.
Generally, dogs do not show signs of joint pain and discomfort until an issue has been prevalent for some time. This is especially important for elderly dogs, and those with genetic predispositions towards hip and joint problems, such as retrievers, Shepherds, and most other large breeds. Others, like corgis and dachshunds, are predisposed for spinal issues due to their elongated torso.
How You Can Help:
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Ensure your dog is at their ideal body weight. Extra weight adds more stress to joints.
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Feed your pet a good quality joint support supplement.
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Focus on low impact exercises, such as swimming, and minimize activities that encourage your dog to push their limits. Running full-tilt and quick changes in direction put tremendous strain on the body.
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Be patient! Take your time on walks and let your dog go at their own pace.
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Feed a good quality diet. There are too many highly processed, low quality foods on the market that do not provide the body with optimal nutrition for maintaining healthy bones and joints.
Even if you don’t see your dog experiencing any symptoms, it is still smart to be proactive. Supplementing their diet with a good quality joint supplement will help reduce inflammation, promote healthy levels of fluid in the joints, and help damaged cartilage tissue. Look for natural joint-aiding ingredients, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients are safe, effective, and may be used with no long-term side effects. Be sure to stay consistent with daily supplementation, as results will hinder if doses are missed.
It is unfortunate that so many of our beloved dogs suffer with the pain and discomfort that comes with joint and mobility issues. Fortunately, there are many simple and effective long-term ways to help. By taking a proactive approach to joint health, you may add years to your dog’s life and improve their quality of life at the same time.
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is vice-president of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty years experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour and lifestyle. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.com.
