Things to Consider Before Choosing The Best Dog Joint Supplements

Changes in your dog's mobility such as abnormal gait, stiffness when you dog walks, difficulty climbing stairs or exercising may suggest your dog has joint pain. Before starting a regime of dog joint supplements, It is important you determine the cause of joint pain. This is important as certain problems such as advanced cases of hip dysplasia may require surgery. Similarly some joint problems due to injury, fracture or even due to your dog being overweight may require different types of treatment. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause. They will typically carry out a physical exam, take a history of symptoms and may order X-rays and other diagnostic tests. Joint problems can be the result of the degradation of cartilage. In healthy joints this acts as a shock absorber between bones in the joints, preventing these from grinding together. It also contains synovial fluid which helps to lubricate joints and helps provide them with mobility and flexibility. As cartilage is worn away joints become exposed and rub together. If left untreated this may lead to osteoarthritis. When this happens inflammation and pain are the most common problems. To address this your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as anti inflammatory drugs and analgesics. These offer short term temporary relief but usually work quickly to address inflammation.

Prescription medications however may be associated with many side effects. For this reason many pet owners turn to natural dog joint supplements. These not only help to address inflammation but also contain ingredients considered to be the building blocks of cartilage such as a glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin. They help to repair and form new cartilage. They are also suitable for long term relief, preventative care and can be used in conjunction with prescription medications. They are typically well tolerated in dogs and have fewer side effects. However it is important to consults with your veterinarian before beginning a treatment plan particularly for dogs with diabetes or other health problems.

There are a wide variety of different dog joint supplements available over the counter each containing a different combination of other vitamins and minerals. They are available in a wide variety of different formulas from dog food, treats, chewabes and granules and are made to be highly palatable to encourage your dog to eat these. They may prove less expensive than prescription medications and associated veterinarian costs.

As well as dog joint supplements, diet and exercise are an important part of dog joint relief. It is important to ensure your dog receives the optimum amount of vitamins and minerals whilst ensuring your dog is not over exercised which can create stress on the joints. Physical therapy, mobility aids and warm beds can also help to support your dog's joints.