best dog food for senior dogs joints

Best Dog Food For Senior Dogs

A long life is the result of good genes, good care, and good luck. While a few four-leaf clovers never hurt anyone, chances are its a little late to worry about good genes once youve welcomed a dog into your heart. That leaves good care as the one thing you can control now. And a big part of good care is good nutrition.

However, there are issues when it comes to feeding your senior dog. Neither the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nor the National Research Council have determined official dietary requirements for aging dogs. Its partly because senior dogs vary so much in their individual needs. That may explain why commercial foods for seniors vary so widely in nutrient levels.

Nobody expects you to be a nutritionist just to pick out a bag of dog food. But you should be aware of just a few important factors that apply to most senior dogs. This will help you choose the best dog food for your senior dog.

Dont Restrict Protein

This matter is widely misunderstood. Many people still believe senior dogs should eat less protein. We now know the opposite is true. Healthy seniors need more protein, not less, in order to fuel muscle. Loss of muscle mass is a major problem in older dogs. Some seniors lose so much muscle they can no longer walk unassisted.

Older dogs need about 50 percent more protein to maintain muscle mass compared to younger ones. But, diets formulated for adult maintenance diets often dont have enough protein to satisfy these needs. Veterinarian Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, recommends 28 to 32 percent protein on a dry-matter basis for healthy older dogs, especially in those cases where weight loss is needed.

Consider Calories

Younger seniors tend to be overweight. But, very old dogs tend to be underweight. A 2011 study found that calories in senior foods varied widely, ranging from 246 to 408 calories per cup. So, the same senior food may be a great choice if your dog needs to lose weight. But it may be a bad choice if they need to gain weight.

Dont forget that the time to consider calories is well before old age sets in. Two benchmark studies conducted by major dog food companies Purina and Waltham both found that restricting calories throughout life improved longevity and reduced illnesses. Essentially, good care for senior dogs starts in youth.

Feed For Organ Health

Other factors to consider are senior dog health problems such as heart and kidney disease. For both conditions, youll want a low-sodium food. But, that same 2011 study found that sodium levels in senior foods ranged from 33 to 412 mg/100 kcal. For kidney disease, youll want low phosphorous, but thats not even mentioned on any label. The 2011 study found phosphorous levels varied by threefold in the senior foods they examined, but were on average higher than their representative adult maintenance food.

Prescription diets are available for heart, kidney, and other diseases that take into account these nutritional needs. However, even those foods may have wide ranges of nutrients. Any dog food manufacturer should be able to provide these numbers to you on their website or with a simple phone call. While youre at it, ask them about the credentials of the people formulating their foods. If they cant provide either, thats clue number one that you should find another product.

Add Supplements

Some senior foods include supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin in an effort to combat osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, the evidence that these supplements actually work is limited. However, they wont hurtexcept maybe your wallet.

On the other hand, omega-3 fatty acids probably play an important role in senior diets because they may help combat both osteoarthritis and especially cognitive losses. If you are adding your own to your dogs diet, aim for the amount of EPA and DHA combined to be in the range of 700 to 1,500 mg. Build up starting at the low end and cut back if your dog has any diarrhea or vomiting.

Theres probably more to the recipe than simply EPA and DHA, however. Research conducted at Purina tested Beagles between the ages of 9.5 and 11 years of age that were fed either a standard diet or one supplemented with antioxidants, B vitamins, fish oil, and L-arginine for six months. The dogs fed this Brain Protection Blend performed significantly better on a series of mental tasks, especially the more difficult ones, compared to the dogs not receiving the blend. The tasks involved determining which one of several shallow wells contained food when the cue was a marker either next to it, near it, or displaced at an angle; or seeing how well they did on a task requiring them to discriminate right, left, and center, and then relearning which side was correct in order to receive a reward.

Make Food Palatable For Senior Dogs

There are practical aspects of feeding your dog to consider, too. Senior dogs may have dental problems that make chewing difficult or uncomfortable. These dogs should first be treated for whatever problem they have, but if that is impossible or unsuccessful, consider wetting their food or feeding them canned or soft food. Simply feeding a smaller kibble size may help if youre feeding dry food.

Senior dogs may be uncomfortable bending down to the food bowl or standing for long periods to eat. Try serving their meals on a raised platform or encourage them to eat lying down.

Very old dogs often lose their appetite. Warming the food can increase its aroma and may help stimulate the appetite; cooling it may make it less nausea-inducing in queasy dogs. At some point you may have to abandon your goal of a healthy balanced diet and just feed him whatever he will eat. The wait until hes hungry enough tactic doesnt work in seniors because their hunger mechanism may not be working correctly. Besides, its a little late to be worried about spoiling himand even if you do, doesnt he deserve it?

This column first appeared in theSeptember/October 2019 issue of AKC Family Dogmagazine.

5 Best Dog Foods For Joint Health (2024)

How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Joint Health

Preserving good joint health is very important to the quality of life of a dog. Though elderly dogs benefit the most from the best dog food for joints, it is an excellent decision to start a dog on a diet that provides support for healthy joints from the dogs youth as it lays an excellent foundation for the future.

As dogs age, mobility can become an issue, and many dogs succumb to the effects of arthritis, a condition that can be very painful. In addition to this, dogs that carry too much weight place excess strain on their joints causing them to experience discomfort.

Problems with joints can begin at any age and encompass a wide range of degrees. Some dogs barely notice much change in their day to day functionality while others reach a point where any movement is nearly impossible. Thankfully, diet, supplements, and medications can help to offset the effects of arthritis and provide a vital help for joint health to improve a dogs mobility.

Signs of poor joint health are easy for owners to detect. These include limping, stiffness, or the favoring of a limb. Some dogs with symptoms of arthritis exhibit difficulties rising from a seated or prone position and resort to doing more sleeping than what is normal for the dog.

As dogs age and stiffness becomes more pronounced, the dogs gait may change to accommodate the paint the dog feels from movement. During this phase, many dogs will avoid using stairs and will need assistance getting on and off furniture.

But it is not just arthritis that can cause pain to joints. There are several inherited diseases that can affect a dogs mobility including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, metabolic issues, cancers, accidents or injuries, and more. To best determine the root cause behind a dogs joint pain, it is wise to make a visit to a veterinarian for a wellness exam.

A critical component of healthy joints is keeping the dog in a good body condition. Excess weight puts additional strain on a dogs hips and joints which over time can cause deterioration of the cartilage connecting the bones.

For some dogs, a pain medication will become an important part of its daily regimen to help the dog enjoy mobility without experiencing soreness.

Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Dog Foods that help with Joint Health

Since maintaining a proper body weight is extremely important to joint health, it is vital that owners determine precisely how much of the best food for joints to feed their dogs. The bag of food will offer serving suggestions which are a very helpful starting point. These can be adjusted with the dogs weight and appetite serving as important guides.

As dogs age, less food will need to be fed since the dogs activity level will be reduced. Free feeding is strongly discouraged as it can easily lead to weight gain.

Adult dogs require a high quality diet that contains a minimum of 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat while puppies do best on a food comprised of 22 percent protein and 8 percent fat.

Dietary Requirements for Dog Foods that help with Joint Health

The best dog foods for joints are properly balanced and fortified with powerhouse supplements to support good health in dogs. Limited ingredient diets are preferred if possible. The main priority in any ingredient in a top tier food is that it be of premium quality and easy for dogs to digest.

Artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives serve no beneficial purpose in dog food. These are best avoided as they can be common allergens for dogs and can lead to the development of food sensitivities.

Meat should be the first ingredient in any premium diet for dogs. Whole meats are preferred, but meat meals also provide all of the high quality nutrition dogs need. However, by-products and plant-based proteins such as soy, corn, and wheat should be avoided.

Carbohydrates form a lesser part of a diet to support joint health but are still an important aspect of any well-rounded canine diet. These can be derived from whole grains, fruits, or vegetables. In fruits and vegetables, those that are rich in antioxidants are preferred as they contribute to the development of a strong immune system.

Healthy fats lubricate joints and provide dogs with the energy they need to remain active. These are best obtained from animal sources and include such ingredients as chicken fat and oily fish.

One of the most important items to look for in a food to support joint health is the addition of the powerhouse supplements glucosamine and chondroitin. These may be added in powdered form but can also be present in a variety of different natural ingredients including the following:

• Shells from shellfish
• Beef trachea
• Pork tails
• Green-lipped mussels
• Chicken feet
• Knuckle bones

Since most dog foods do not contain items such as chicken feet, pork tails, and knuckle bones, these can be obtained from a butcher or high quality pet retailer and served independently of the dogs diet.

Though not necessarily linked to joint health, prebiotics and probiotics assist with proper digestion and are an excellent addition to any top quality food for dogs.

Things to Look for in the Best Dog Food for Joints

Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in the best dog food for joints:

• Whole meat or meat meal proteins heading up the ingredients list (in non-veterinary diets)
• Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients
• Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements
• Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
• Contains healthy amounts of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support coat and skin health
• Includes glucosamine and chondroitin

Best Dog Food for Joint Health: 5 Dietary Delights for Aching Joints!

Unfortunately, many of our furry friends suffer from joint issues as they age (and some even suffer from them while theyre still young).

This is obviously pretty rotten news for Rover, but there are a number of ways you can help your marvelous mutt manage his symptoms and promote healthy joints.Youll want to work closely with your vet to devise a good overall treatment strategy, but one of the critical components of your overall joint-care plan should usually include feeding your pooch a food designed to nurture his ailing joints with key ingredients like joint-friendly compounds.

Below, well share a few of the best dog food for joint health picks and discuss some of the other things you can do to help protect your pets joints!

Best Overall Dog Food for Joint Health

Best Prescription Dog Food for Joint Health

Best Fresh Food for Joint Health

What Makes a Dog Food Good for Joint Health?

Wondering what makes a food good for supporting joint health and mobility in dogs? Here are three things to look for when looking for the right joint-friendly food for your furry companion:

• The best foods for joint health are fortified with joint-supporting supplements. Ideally, your dogs diet should include joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Other helpful ingredients for healthy joints include omega-3s (often provided in the form of fish oil supplements) and taurine to help manage canine inflammation.
• The best foods for joint health feature an appropriate calcium to phosphorus ratio. Your pooch not only needs to consume enough calcium and phosphorus, he must also get them in the proper ratio for optimal nutrition for healthy bones and joints. This is especially important for large breed dogs, and its also one of the leading reasons vets discourage the use of homemade diets.
• The best foods for joint health encourage your pooch to maintain a healthy body weight. Extra pounds put unnecessary pressure on your dogs joints, so its imperative that his diet promotes a healthy body weight.Prevent excessive weight gain in your beloved companion by feeding proper amounts of a balanced diet made with lean meat, real produce, and wholesome carbohydrates. If all else fails, try a weight management recipe.
• The best foods for joint health often feature type II collagen to combat pain and inflammation. Derived from chicken or cows, this protein comes from connectives tissues and potentially triggers the body to produce pain and inflammation-fighting chemicals that may aid in mutt mobility. Its benefits arent fully understood yet, but type II collagen is often featured in arthritis supplements for people and pets alike.
• The best foods for joint health may feature hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally as a fluid in eyes and joints, cushioning and lubricating these areas for comfortable movement. At least one study has shown oral supplementation of hyaluronic acid to benefit dogs recovering from cranial cruciate ligament surgery.

Dont Forget About the Basics!

While youll want to look for foods that meet the specific criteria discussed above, its still important to select a food that satisfies all of the general dog-food-selection criteria all owners should consider.

Check out our complete guide to picking a dog food to learn more, but a few of the most important criteria include things like picking a food that meets the AAFCO guidelines for your dogs life stage, limiting your choices to foods that are cooked in the USA, and seeking a food that appeals to your pups palate.

Additionally, always make sure your vet is on board with the food you select.

The 5 Best Dog Food for Joint Health Picks

Now that you know what to look for in a joint-supporting dog food, we can talk about some of our favorite high-quality dog food choices. Here are the best foods to support joint health. Just remember that you need to work with your vet to devise a comprehensive joint-care plan and make sure he or she gives the green light to the joint health dog food you select.

1. Merrick Healthy Grains Lamb + Brown Rice

About: Despite being a mainstream food thats not specifically marketed as a joint-supporting recipe, Merrick Healthy Grains Lamb + Brown Rice is a great choice for dogs needing help with joint mobility with its rich blend of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s. Grain-inclusive, this crunchy canine cuisine includes a blend of brown rice, barley, and oatmeal to energize your gem of a pooch and calm rumblings between meals. Youll also find quinoa, an ancient seed thats a solid source of fiber and protein.

Features:

• Real lamb is the first listed ingredient, joined later by protein-rich salmon and lamb meals to support muscle strength
• Cooked in Merricks own US kitchens using globally sourced ingredients
• Fresh produce, including apples and carrots, provide natural fiber, flavor, and vitamins
• Added taurine supports a healthy heart

Joint-Supporting Compounds:

• Chondroitin Sulfate: 800 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Glucosamine: 800 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.75% minimum

Ingredients List

Deboned Lamb, Salmon Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal...,

Lamb Meal, Chicken Fat, Quinoa, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salt, Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Carrots, Apples, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Chia Seed, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), Citric Acid, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product

Pros

• Fortified with three different joint-supporting ingredients (chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega-3s)
• Probiotics promote healthier digestive function
• Taste gets a tail wag from most dogs
• Free of legumes, potatoes, and peas

Cons

• Multi-protein recipe may be a bad choice for dogs with food allergies
• Pricing is on the higher side

2. Blue Buffalo Prescription Mobility Support

Best Prescription Dog Food for Joint Health

About: Some pups need a little more joint support than over-the-counter dry dog food can provide, which is where Blue Buffalos W+M Recipe comes in handy. Youll need a prescription to order this dry food, but this salmon and chicken recipe is worth the effort, as its fortified with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin to nourish joint cartilage and ease inflammation.As a weight management formula, its also a great dog food to help a dog lose weight and ease unnecessary stress on joints. Rounding things out, Blues patented LifeSource Bits give canine immune systems a boost.

Features:

• Deboned salmon is the primary ingredient, followed by protein-rich chicken meal to support lean muscle development
• Formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists to aid in canine joint health and weight management
• Made in the USA using globally acquired ingredients
• A fiber-rich recipe, this food promotes proper digestive function

Joint-Supporting Compounds:

• Chondroitin Sulfate: 550 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Glucosamine: 700 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2% (minimum)

Ingredients List

Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Powdered Cellulose, Peas...,

Tapioca Starch, Natural Flavor, Pea Starch, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Fish Oil (source of EPA-Eicosapentaenoic Acid), Gelatin, Cranberries, Dried Tomato Pomace, Canola Oil (source of Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Shrimp Meal (source of Glucosamine), Potassium Sulfate, Pea Fiber, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Betaine Hydrochloride, Calcium Chloride, DL-Methionine, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Chicory Root (source of Soluble Fiber), Taurine, Calcium Sulfate, Potatoes, Turmeric, Pomegranate, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, L-Threonine, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, L-Tryptophan, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Garlic, Vegetable Juice for color, Salt, Blueberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Lysine, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Copper Sulfate, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.

Pros

• Several owners reported improved mobility, energy levels, and weight loss after switching to this food
• Most dogs absolutely loved the taste of this dry dog food (which isnt always the case with prescription diets)
• Formulated by experts with a careful balance of nutrients to combat unnecessary canine weight gain and promote cartilage repair and joint health

Cons

• Like most prescription diets, this food is relatively pricey
• Mixed-protein, grain-free diets not great for every dog
• Some dogs eat around the LifeSource Bits

3. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Chicken & Rice

Best Large Breed Dog Food for Joint Health

About: In addition to having nutritional requirements that differ from small and medium-sized dogs, many large-breed pups are particularly susceptible to joint issues that can greatly impact canine quality of life. Fortunately, there are options such as Blue Buffalo Large Breed Chicken & Rice a dry dog food designed specifically for big dogs thats a protein-rich, grain-inclusive dog food recipe. In addition to glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s, this recipe is made with an array of impressive ingredients to support your pets overall wellbeing with essential nutrients for nose-to-tail health.

Features:

• Real, deboned chicken is the primary ingredient, followed by protein-dense chicken meal to support strong muscles
• Prebiotics and probiotics aid in doggy digestive health
• Made in the USA with global ingredients
• Blue Buffalos antioxidant-packed LifeSource Bits offer immune support
• Free of common allergens like artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

Joint-Supporting Compounds:

• Chondroitin Sulfate: 500 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Glucosamine: 700 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.75% (minimum)

Ingredients List

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley...,

Pea Starch, Peas, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed (Source of Omega 3 And 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Fiber, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (Source of Epa-Eicosapentaenoic Acid), Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dl-Methionine, Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Vitamin E Supplement, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Garlic, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice For Color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Copper Sulfate, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.

Pros

• Loaded with joint-supporting supplements and inflammation-fighting omega-3s
• Features a bounty of high-quality ingredients, including real produce
• Proper calcium to phosphorus ratio for large breed dogs
• Fortified with five probiotic strains for digestive health

Cons

• More protein options would be ideal for doggos with meat allergies
• Some dogs pick around the LifeSource Bits

4. Hills Diet Prescription Joint Food

About: Its important to watch your woofers weight if hes suffering from joint problems and mobility issues, as extra pounds put extra stress on joints, affecting everything from your dogs activity level to his overall quality of life. Fortunately, this specialized food from Hills Diet is designed to support your dogs joint health with glucosamine and chondroitin while helping portly pups slim down a bit with a calorie-conscious recipe. Just note that this is a prescription dog food, so youll need approval from your veterinarian before the food is shipped to your doorstep.

Features:

• Protein-rich chicken meal is the primary ingredient, supporting muscle strength
• Designed by experts to support weight and joint management in dogs
• Omega-3s from flaxseed and fish oil combat inflammation and nourish your pups skin and coat
• Rich source of fiber from grains, fruits, and vegetables, which aids doggy digestion
• Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients

Joint-Supporting Compounds:

• Chondroitin Sulfate: 500 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Glucosamine: 400 milligrams per kilogram (minimum)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2% (minimum)

Ingredients List

Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Pea Fiber, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Flaxseed...,

Soybean Mill Run, Dried Tomato Pomace, Powdered Cellulose, Wheat Gluten, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Fish Oil, Coconut Oil, L-Lysine, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, DL-Methionine, Iodized Salt, Carrots, Dicalcium Phosphate, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Lipoic Acid, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, minerals (Manganese Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Chondroitin Sulfate, Beta-Carotene

Pros

• Owners reported that even picky eaters seemed to enjoy this recipe
• Some owners report improvements in canine weight and energy levels after switching to this food
• Unlike Blue Buffalos prescription diet, this is a grain-inclusive recipe, suiting pawrents concerned about the potential safety issues of grain-free diets

Cons

• Doesnt include any whole meat protein, instead relying on meat meals, like chicken meal
• As a prescription diet, this dry dog food is relatively expensive

5. JustFoodForDogs Joint & Skin Support

Best Fresh Dog Food for Joint Health

About: Unfortunately, not many of the leading fresh dog food brands are specifically designed to support joint health, but JustFoodForDogs picks up the slack with their delicious Joint & Skin Support recipe. This meaty mash includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil help banish inflammation and condition your canines skin and coat, plus chondroitin to support healthy cartilage between joints. Type II collagen is also included to benefit your barkers frame. Made to meet the AAFCO nutrient profile for maintenance, this recipe features a single animal protein source, suiting sniffers with meat allergies.

Just look under JustFoodForDogs fresh frozen options to find this joint-happy medley of meat, quinoa, and vegetables.

Features:

• Real pork is the primary ingredient
• JustFoodForDogs recipes are formulated by veterinarians and board-certified animal nutritionists
• Meal plans are customized to your canine companions needs, including body condition, breed, age, and any food allergies
• Meals are fresh-frozen and shipped to your doorstep just thaw and serve
• JustFoodForDogs recipes are made using human-grade ingredients and no preservatives in US-based kitchens you can visit

Joint-Supporting Compounds:

• Chondroitin Sulfate: 100 milligrams to 400 milligrams per meal (depending on canine weight)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.06% (minimum)

Ingredients List

Pork, Quinoa, Kale, Carrots, Apples...,

Fish Oil, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Hydrolyzed Chicken Cartilage (source of collagen), Salt, Taurine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Selenium Yeast, Ferrous Fumarate, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Cholecalciferol (source of Vitamin D3), Riboflavin, Potassium Iodide

Pros

• Contains omega-3-rich fish oil to help reduce joint inflammation
• Chondroitin nourishes cartilage between joints
• Flavor is a high point with most pooches
• Focused ingredient list of human-grade goodies a win for dogs with food sensitivities

Cons

• Like all fresh foods, JustFoodForDogs meals are expensive
• Requires refrigeration

What Kinds of Joint Problems Do Dogs Suffer?

Unfortunately, joint problems are fairly common in dogs. Here are some of the more common conditions that your pooch may experience:

• Arthritis: Arthritis (technically termed osteoarthritis) is characterized by the chronic inflammation and degeneration of the cartilage in a dogs joints.While thought to be a senior ailment, arthritis pain can affect dogs of any age.
• Dysplasia: Dysplasia occurs when a dogs joint does not fit correctly into its socket, causing abnormal growth, inflammation, and lameness.Elbow and hip dysplasia are common in canines, including big and small barkers, like bulldogs, pugs, and German shepherds.
• Luxating Patella: A luxating patella is when a dogs kneecap moves out of place. This is more common in smaller breeds, like toy poodles, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas.
• Osteochondrosis: This condition occurs as a result of abnormal cartilage development in large breed dogs, including Labrador retrievers and Rottweilers. A key way to avoid this issue is to feed a large-breed puppy food for dogs expected to be 70 pounds or more in adulthood.
• Trauma: Dislocation, fractures, and cruciate ligament tears can all lead to joint problems for pooches, as injuries may affect everything from cartilage health to connective tissues to bone strength.Proper veterinary care and careful recovery are vital.

The takeaway? Joint problems for dogs can stem from a variety of issues. So, its important to see a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of your poochs problems so that you can properly address the issues at hand, whether it involves a joint health food for dogs, supplement sources of glucosamine, or other measures.

Are Some Breeds More Susceptible to Joint Problems Than Others?

Some breeds are more susceptible to joint issues than others based on their build and genetic predisposition. A couple of those breeds include:

• American pit bull terrier (and other bully breeds)
• German shepherd
• Dachshund
• Labrador retriever
• Great Dane
• Mastiff
• St. Bernard
• Rottweiler
• Golden retriever
• Cavalier King Charles spaniel
• Bernese mountain dog

Regular exercise is important to maintaining muscle strength, but your dogs exercise routine can also lead to joint issues, including canine arthritis. Improper exercise can lead to joint woes in dogs of any breed, age, or size, but especially in giant dog breeds like mastiffs and Great Danes. With these pups, sticking to low-impact exercises during puppyhood is vital for healthy joint development.

Signs and Symptoms of Joint Pain in Dogs

Are you unsure whether your dog is struggling with joint pain? Concerned about canine arthritis or other uncomfortable conditions?

Here are some telltale signs that your dog may be dealing with joint discomfort:

• Limping
• Lameness
• Inability to move
• Lethargy
• Excessive licking of one or more joints
• Yelping when touched
• Swollen joints
• Muscle loss
• Irritability
• Hopping when running
• Slowing down or lack of interest in activities
• Stiffness
• Reluctance to participate in regular exercise, even walking

If your pooch is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, its time to head to the veterinarian.Even with veterinary intervention, special attention may be needed in mitigating safety issues around the home for dogs with joint issues, such as gating off stairways and lying down carpet runners on hardwood areas to prevent falls.

How Are Joint Problems Treated for Dogs?

There are a number of ways to address joint problems, which youll need to discuss with your vet. However, in many cases, feeding a dog food that supports good joint health is a valuable component of your approach.

Your veterinarian may provide additional support for Spot through the following methods:

• Supplements: Joint support supplements can be a preventative measure for at-risk pups and also help dogs with joint issues feel their best. The two most common supplements are glucosamine and chondroitin.They come in tablets, chewables, powders, and liquids and are an excellent choice if your dog has sensitivities that make switching his food a no-go.
• Medications: Your pooch may be prescribed medication to help cope with chronic pain or inflammation, especially if hes dealing with ongoing canine arthritis.Hiding medication in a pill pocket makes administering it a breeze.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen a poochs joints and range of motion and is especially a great option for pups who arent eligible for surgical intervention.
• Management Solutions: Your veterinarian may recommend several lifestyle adjustments to limit your dogs pain. This could include diet changes or adjustments to your pups usual routine or exercise plan.There are a vast array of arthritis treatment solutions for dogs, but a common first step is to work on management options like reducing stairs access, adding ramps to the home, and utilizing back waist slings.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention such as an ACL surgery, may be able to correct the source of your furballs joint issues.Your Rover will also have a road to recovery ahead, so prepare to play doggy nurse and get ready to pour on the TLC.
• Weight Loss: Your dogs joint issues could be caused or exacerbated by excess weight. Weight loss can help alleviate some of your dogs symptoms and make for a happier furry friend.Increased exercise and a diet change may be in order, whether its cutting down on portions of his existing food or switching to a calorie-controlled food featuring high-quality protein sources to aid in lean muscle development.

FAQ: Best Dog Food for Joint Health Picks

Still have questions about canine joint health and how the right food can help? Check out the most commonly asked questions surrounding the topic and the matching answers with us.

What is the best dog food for joint health?

The best dog food for joint health varies dog to dog, but the top choices are all rich in the cartilage-condition compounds glucosamine and chondroitin and feature anti inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. The nutritional benefits of this trio of ingredient to your doggos joints are unmatched.

The most important aspects when looking for the best fit for your floof are that the food meets your pups AAFCO nutrient profile for his current life stage, addresses any health issues he has (including joint concerns,) and has your vets approval. Secondary characteristics worthy of consideration include the foods country of origin, primary ingredient, and use of high-quality protein sources.

What foods help dog joints?

The best dog foods for joint mobility and support are those made with joint-nourishing compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate and inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients offer a multi-pronged approach to helping joints by aiding the existing cartilage within joints, promoting regeneration of cartilage, and battling any inflammation that may lead to impaired mobility and pain.

What foods are good for old dogs joints?

The best nutrition for senior joint needs is specialized dog food rich in glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids. These specialized diets contain much more of these joint-friendly compounds than regular dog food and are typically formulated by veterinary nutritionists and other experts to benefit your canines frame while still providing key nutrients.

Senior dog food recipes are geared toward balanced nutrition that tackles mature mutt health issues and special dietary concerns, such as joint support, healthy digestion, and strong bones. Opting for one of these for your senior sniffer may be best to ensure nose-to-tail health.

How much glucosamine do dogs needs?

Glucosamine dosage varies by your dogs weight and needs, with the larger the dog, the more glucosamine required.

The general rule of thumb with adult dogs is: Dogs between 5 and 20 pounds need 250 milligrams to 500 milligrams daily Dogs weighing between 20 to 45 pounds need 500 milligrams daily Dogs that weigh between 45 and 90 pounds need 1,000 milligrams daily Dogs weighing more than 90 pounds should have at least 1,500 milligrams daily

Consult with your vet to determine the proper amount for your pooch. Most dry dog food feature an appropriate dosage for doggos, but its still important to check what your individual woofer needs.

Do omega-3s help joint health?

In addition to supporting your canines skin, coat, eyes, and brain, omega-3 fatty acids are known for anti inflammatory properties that can benefit joints, especially pups with canine arthritis or those recovering from heavy physical activity. One study even showed a decrease in acids linked to cartilage destruction in dogs fed a fish oil supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil, including salmon oil, and flaxseed are great natural sources of omega-3s.

Unfortunately, plenty of pooches are affected by joint issues at some point in their lives. Thankfully, these joint supportive dog foods can help your furry friend feel his best while managing his joint problems.

Does your dog suffer from joint issues? Has your pooch tried any of these joint-friendly foods? Wed love to hear all about it in the comments below!