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Joint pain will likely affect your dog at some point in their lives, particularly those of larger breeds. It can sometimes be hard to tell if your dog is suffering from joint pain. Keep an eye out for the most common symptoms.
Common symptoms of joint pain in dogs are:
- Stiffness
- Limping
- Slowed movement
- Swollen joints
- Heightened irritability
Sometimes, these symptoms are caused by developmental issues because joints or ligaments haven’t developed correctly. However, often, joint damage is a degenerative issue, which occurs over time. Owners can prevent their pets from experiencing stiffness and discomfort through specific measures.
How do I keep my dog’s joints healthy?
All pet owners want to keep their dog’s joints healthy and young and one of the most common uses of payday loans in the US is for pet care, but knowing how to do this and how to budget for it can be challenging. There are four simple ways to help support healthy joints:
Diet & Weight Management
A healthy dog needs a nutritious diet and weight management. The right food is essential to your dog’s overall health, and maintaining a healthy weight for its breed will avoid putting extra pressure on joints. Overweight pets have faster joint deterioration. Speak to your vet to find out if your dog is achieving a healthy diet and weight.
Exercise
Exercise done right can be the best thing for looking after your dog’s joints and can help with a range of potential health issues. Regular movement is essential to support muscle and joint function. A daily exercise routine involving long walks and runs can help strengthen muscles and prevent future damage. However, running only on hard surfaces can damage a dog’s hip joints over time.
If your dog is older, slow, short walks can be enough to keep up strength, and pushing your pet can do more harm than good. You may consider taking your dog for a swim as a gentler form of exercise. However busy you may be as a dog owner, it is essential not to forget that exercise is key to the longevity of your dog’s health.
Joint Supplements
Joint supplements can reduce inflammation and protect joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin are two popular joint supplements used for both humans and dogs. These can be given as added supplements, or you can also feed your dog a diet that contains guaranteed natural glucosamine levels. The supplements work by decreasing inflammation, supporting healing, and improving water retention in the cartilage. The cartilage is essential to provide cushioning for the joint.
Massage your pet
Try stretching your pet’s hind legs to increase strength and relieve discomfort. This is particularly effective for pets suffering from developmental issues which cannot be treated or arthritis.
Is jumping bad for dogs joints?
Jumping increases the pressure on the joint, and as a result, some worry that it can negatively affect their dog’s joints. However, if jumping is practised safely, your dog is healthy and you don’t overdo it, jumping should be harmless. There is always a risk of injury when doing sports with your dog, but as a responsible owner, you can minimise the risks and keep an eye out for any signs that your dog is uncomfortable.
How can I help my old dog’s joints?
If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, you may be concerned about how to help them. Just as in humans, arthritis in dogs can be very painful in the affected joints. Arthritis can occur in any joint, but the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees are most common. It is best to speak to your vet about possible remedies. These can include supplements, prescribed pain medication, massage routines and other ways to keep your pet comfortable.
