Top tips for managing arthritis: choosing the best joint supplement for dogs

Whether it is countryside walks, beach days or ball games, your dog’s joints are subject to a fair amount of wear and tear. Over time, this can lead to joint stiffness, especially in their later years. One of the commonest causes of joint stiffness in dogs is arthritis and if you have a senior dog, sore joints may be something you are already on the lookout for. But arthritis can affect any dog, regardless of their age. So, from recognising the signs of arthritis in dogs, to choosing the best joint supplements for dogs, here is everything you need to know to support your dog’s joint health.

Early symptoms of joint disease in dogs can be subtle, but they are often the first clues that your dog’s joints may need extra care. You might notice that your dog has slowed down a little on walks, hesitates before jumping into the car, or seems a bit stiff when getting up after a nap. And as arthritis progresses, the signs may become more apparent, including:

• Stiffness, especially after rest
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Limping
• Reluctance to exercise or play
• Behavioural changes, such as irritability

While arthritis in older dogs is more common, joint problems can affect all ages. Larger breeds, like Labradors, golden retrievers and German shepherds, are particularly prone to arthritis, but any dog can develop joint issues. Injuries, obesity, or congenital conditions can lead to arthritis in younger dogs and small breeds as well. Knowing what is normal for your dog can help you spot early signs sooner.

There is a lot that you can do to make life easier for a dog with arthritis and support their joint health at home. Here are some simple but effective ways to help:

• Comfortable bedding: invest in an orthopaedic dog bed to provide joint support and comfort while they rest.
• Ramps and non-slip surfaces: use ramps for cars and add rubber mats to hard floors to prevent slipping and support mobility.
• Regular exercise: gentle, low-impact exercise, tailored to your dog, can prevent stiffness and keep joints moving.
• Weight management: maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important steps you can take to support your dog’s joint health.

And of course, many pet owners wonder if they should consider joint supplements for their dogs.

Good joint supplements for dogs will contain ingredients like glucosamine and omega 3 fatty acids.

• Glucosamine is a ‘building block’ for cartilage, the tough, fibrous tissue that cushions joints. Healthy cartilage helps maintain mobility and comfort.
• Omega 3 fatty acids have a natural anti-inflammatory action and may improve mobility.
   

The best joint supplements for dogs may also contain undenatured collagen type 2, a unique form of collagen that is especially beneficial. This innovative ingredient can help restore flexibility, strength and mobility to joints.

Not all collagen is created equal and when choosing a good joint supplement for your dog, it is important to bear this in mind. Type 2 collagen, a key component of cartilage, plays an essential role in keeping your pet’s joints flexible, strong and mobile.

UC-II® is a special form of type 2 collagen that works to support joint health by activating immune cells in the lining of the digestive system. These cells then travel around the body and when they come across type 2 collagen in joints, they help slow down cartilage breakdown in the joints, support a healthy layer of cartilage, and activate natural anti-inflammatory responses. Studies show that UC-II is more effective than ingredients like glucosamine in supporting joints.¹

Beaphar Flexifit® Joint Care Chews are a soft, tasty, one-a-day supplement to support joint function in dogs. The advanced, multi-action formula contains Undenatured Collagen Type II (40 mg UC-II®/chew), to help soothe and comfort painful joints and aid mobility.

Arthritis is a painful condition for dogs and a limp is one of the clearest signs that they are experiencing discomfort. It is a common misconception that if a dog isn’t whining or crying, they are not in pain. So, if you notice your dog is limping, a visit to the vet is a good idea to ensure they get the right care. Hip dysplasia in dogs is another condition which causes pain.

The good news is that arthritis does not usually shorten a dog’s life. With the right care – including a good joint supplement, regular low-impact exercise and weight management – many dogs can maintain mobility and quality of life well into their senior years.

Remember, if you notice any changes in your dog’s behaviour, or have concerns, it is always best to seek veterinary advice. For more insights on managing joint disease in dogs read What do I do if my dog is affected by canine joint disease?

References

1. ^{Gencoglu, H. et al. (2020) Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II) in Joint Health and Disease: A Review on the Current Knowledge of Companion Animals. Animals. 10. 697. 10.3390/ani10040697.}