Joint pain is a common condition that affects pups as they age. The inflammation of the cartilage and joints leads to osteoarthritis, dysplasia, and other similar illnesses, and some breeds are more likely to face them than others.
Here’s a list of breeds who are predisposed to these kinds of conditions:
- American Staffordshire Terriers (Amstaffs)
- Bloodhounds
- Basset Hounds
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Catahoula Hounds
- Chow Chows
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- Dachshunds
- French Bulldogs
- German Shepherds
- Great Danes
- Golden Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Neopolitan Mastiffs
- Norwegian Elkhounds
- Newfoundlands
- Otterhounds
- Old English Sheepdogs
- Pit Bulls
- Pugs
- Rottweilers
- Saint Bernards
- Shih Tzus
So what can you do if your pup is on the list, or if your vet has warned you that your pup could show signs of joint issues in the future? The main thing would be to keep your pup’s weight to a healthy level, as obesity is the main cause for joint-related conditions in pups.
But if you’re really concerned, then the best form of preventative care that is not based on conditions you can control is a supplement. A quality joint supplement can be very helpful in preventing painful disorders later on. So how can you choose a good one? Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Active ingredients
Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are the common active ingredients needed for the supplements. Cheaper products will have less quantities of them.
2. Manufacturer
You don’t want to pick up an illegitimate brand of supplements that don’t work. Read labels on the products and opt for ones made in the USA.
3. Manufacturing
How is the product made? High head manufacturing can lead to the loss of nutrients. Cold-press extrusion is more expensive, but works much better and produces more potent medication.
4. Multiple ingredients
Choosing a product with a number of active joint supplement ingredients instead of just one of them can make for a better and more powerful supplement.
If your pup shows signs of joint pain, bring them to a vet for an analysis! Do like and share this information if you found it useful!