Veterinary research has shown that dog joint supplements can be very beneficial in easing the discomfort and compromised mobility that canine arthritis causes. In fact, including a high quality dog joint powder in your pet’s diet from the age of one year onwards can help to prevent or delay the onset of joint problems as he gets older.
So, what should you look for in a high quality dog joint powder?
Nutraceuticals for healthy joints and active dogs
Nutritional diet supplements are also known as ‘nutraceuticals’. Nutraceuticals are substances that are considered to be safer for long-term use than pharmaceutical drugs, and they also cause very few side effects. Unlike the lifelong use of synthetic drugs, organic dietary supplements will not cause liver and kidney problems for your dog as he ages. In addition, by choosing a dog joint powder that contains organic ingredients, you can be sure that your dog will be receiving a natural, healthy product.
Alt tag: High quality dog joint powders can help to keep him active and happy for life
Nutraceuticals usually take up to a month to have any noticeable effect on your dog’s condition, and once the correct dosage levels for your pet have been established, a maintenance dose will be required for the remainder of your dog’s life.
Before you buy dog joint powder online, you should make sure that the brand you choose contains at least most of the following constituents:
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is considered to be an essential ingredient in any effective dog joint powder. It is a compound that occurs naturally in your dog’s body, where it has a variety of functions. Glucosamine is formed when proteins are metabolized that are directly associated with new cell growth. In addition to helping the repair of degraded and damaged cartilage in the joints, glucosamine is directly involved the formation and maintenance of the following:
- bone
- digestive secretions
- eyes
- heart valves
- ligaments
- nails
- respiratory tract
- skin
- synovial joint fluid
- tendons
- urinary tract
There are three forms of glucosamine, but glucosamine sulfate is generally considered to be the most efficiently utilized and absorbed by the dog’s body, so look for a supplement that contains this version.
The raw glucosamine that is used in the manufacture of effective dog joint powder is usually derived from the outer shells of sea creatures such as lobsters, crabs, and shrimps.
Chondroitin sulfate
Like glucosamine, your dog produces his own supply of chondroitin sulfate. However, as your dog ages, his body’s natural production of chondroitin begins to wane.
Chondroitin sulfate is thought to be effective in protecting the joints from stress and general wear-and-tear, as well as helping to repair damaged tendons and ligaments and therefore improving joint stability. In addition, chondroitin sulfate inhibits certain damaging enzymes that are present in synovial fluid and cartilage, making it easier for the dog’s body to repair the damage and keep the joints supple. Chondroitin sulfate also helps to hydrate the cartilage tissue in the joint capsules of the limbs, improving flexibility.
Supplementary chondroitin is usually made from the cartilage found naturally in cattle, pigs, fish, and green-lipped mussels.
Some research studies suggest that supplementing your pet’s diet with a dog joint powder containing chondroitin and glucosamine sulfate can significantly reduce joint pain, as the two compounds work most effectively in tandem.
Alt tag: Dog joint powders can relieve inflammation and pain
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
MSM is a sulfer compound that is produced naturally by the dog’s body. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be of benefit to arthritic dogs. These compounds are also good for promoting a healthy skin and coat and for maintaining cognitive function; ideal for elderly pets.
Dogs cannot make their own Omega-3 fatty acids. The compounds are derived naturally from fish oil and from some vegetable oils.
Turmeric curcumin
Turmeric curcumin is a spice that is commonly used in Indian cookery. Turmeric is primarily derived from the rhizomes (roots) of the plant which are ground down into a fine, yellow powder. Turmeric has been used for medicinal purposes for many centuries and is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects.
Alt tag: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving qualities
In conclusion
When it comes to buying a high quality dog joint powder online, you should look for one that contains most or all of the ingredients mentioned above. Choosing an organic product with the very best quality ingredients will help to ensure that your dog’s arthritis stays controlled for longer, giving him the very best quality of life.