There is a lot of buzz about giving hip and joint supplements to dogs now a days. If the growing number of advertisements and pop ups about these supplements are making you wonder whether you should start feeding them to your little furry friend then you have clicked the right link. In this article, we shall help you understand the importance of these supplements and also as to when you should totally consider administering them. So, let’s get started.
The Importance of Hip and Joint Supplements
If you are looking for a one word answer to whether or not your pet requires supplements to maintain hip and joint health then it is, yes. This is because joint pain is quite common in dogs. Dogs develop joint pain in shoulders, hips, knees as well as elbows owing to many reasons. One of the most common reasons for this is osteoarthritis. The problem arises due to the weakening of the joints as the dogs age.
Some dogs develop hip dysplasia. Mostly hereditary, this problem occurs when a dog’s hip socket does not develop appropriately. As a result, the bone does not fit the socket. This leads to discomfort and pain. Likewise, a bone disease called Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy causes swelling in joints. The condition is quite painful. Dogs suffering from it often develop high grade fever and lose appetite. Other health conditions such as ostechondritis dissecans and panosteitis also result in joint pain.
Top rated hip and joint supplements for dogs include ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin that maintain joint health and lower the possibility of developing this painful condition substantially. They may also speed up the recovery process if given in addition to the prescribed medicines.
Breeds that Require Particular Attention
There are certain dog breeds that are more susceptible to joint pain. These include German Shepherd, Labrador, Old English Sheepdog, Dachshund, Great Dane, Golden Retriever, Newfoundland, Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed, Saint Bernard, Mastiffs and Rottweiler. These breeds mostly have a heavy built. Thus, a lot of weight is exerted on their joints. This leads to pain and discomfort as they age. If you bring home any of these breeds then it is particularly essential to start administering supplements from an early age. In addition to it, you should also keep their weight in check.
However, this does not mean that you don’t have to worry if you have a pet with a small built. Smaller breeds such as pugs and spaniels also suffer from this condition. Thus, supplements must be given to them as well.
So, if you haven’t started giving these supplements to your pets now you know what they are missing out on and as to how you can improve their overall condition by administering these. Different dog breeds may require different dosage. The dosage also varies based on the dog’s age and condition. It is best to consult an experienced veterinarian to understand appropriate dose for your furry buddy.
