Hello everyone. This week we want to show you the best treats for healthy joints in dogs. Did you know that around 1 in 5 dogs in the UK are affected by osteoarthritis? Just like humans, wear and tear increases on a dog’s joints as they get older.
Joints consist of bone, cartilage and fluid that cushions the joint, allowing it to move without friction. When any one of these elements fails, it can lead to osteoarthritis.
You can’t cure osteoarthritis but you can give your dog treats that help manage the symptoms, and prevent further damage.
All dogs require the same nutrients and compounds to keep their joints healthy, but we should also think about age and size.
For example:
Larger dogs put more strain on their joints than smaller ones.
Puppies need nutrients to build strong bones.
Older dogs need nutrients that improve joint health.
So what compounds and nutrients are needed and what are the best treats for healthy joints in dogs?
Best treats for healthy joints in dogs
Dogs need the following for healthy joints:
Glucosamine
Chondroitin
Calcium
Fish oil
Turmeric
Sweet potato
Blueberries
Glucosamine
Glucosamine occurs naturally in cartilage. It helps produce the fluid that lubricates the joints and the collagen helps maintain tendons and ligaments. Glucosamine works as a natural cushion or shock absorber. It strengthens joints and increases mobility.
Dog treats that contain glucosamine:
Chondroitin
You often find supplements that contain glucosamine and chondroitin together. This is because they work like glucosamine in the body. The difference is that chondroitin helps repair damaged cartilage. When cartilage is worn or torn, it produces harmful enzymes that collect in the fluid.
Dog treats that contain chondroitin:
Calcium
Dogs need calcium just as we do; for strong bones. Calcium is essential for a healthy skeleton, but some dogs can have low levels of calcium. When this happens, the body will pull calcium from the bones to redress the balance. This causes joint pain, stiffness, twitching and limping. The right levels of calcium are important for healthy joints.
Dog treats that contain calcium:
Fish oil
We all know how good fish oil is for us, but it is also great for dogs with joint problems. Fish oil contains omega fatty acids which are essential for maintaining healthy joints. Fish oil is much like engine oil, it lubricates the joints, allowing them to move smoothly. But it’s also good for reducing inflammation.
Dog treats that contain fish oil:
Turmeric
A lot of people are becoming aware of the wonderful health benefits of turmeric. Turmeric contains curcumin which is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin helps to reduce swelling which lessens the pressure on painful joints. In fact, a 2018 study reported that turmeric was as effective as ibuprofen, and without upsetting the stomach.
Dr. Judy Morgan, author of ‘Raising Naturally Healthy Pets’, says:
“Antioxidants neutralize free radicals which cause the painful inflammation and damage to joints affected by arthritis.”
Dog treats containing turmeric:
Sweet potato
Sweet potato is packed full of nutrients, including large quantities of beta-cryptoxanthin. Beta-cryptoxanthin is a pro-vitamin A carotenoid that studies show is important for bone health. It also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can control flare-ups in rheumatoid arthritis.
Dog treats containing sweet potato:
Blueberries
Blueberries are little balls bursting with goodness. They have the highest levels of anti-oxidants of all fruits and vegetables. Anti-oxidants help slow down the ageing process and protect our cells against cancer. They’re also full of fibre, Vitamin C & K, and manganese. Blueberries are especially beneficial after exercise as they reduce inflammation on the muscles, helping to speed up muscle repair.
Dog treats containing blueberries:
Conclusion
There are lots of natural dog treats to feed your dog for healthy joints. Some, like chondroitin and calcium build strong bones and connective tissue, and others like glucosamine and fish oil maintain healthy joints. Remember, if you have any questions about treats for healthy joints you can always chat to us at one of our markets, or drop us an email.
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