Natural Remedies for Dog Joint Pain & Arthritis

Natural Remedies for Dog Joint Pain & Arthritis.If you have noticed your dog slowing down on walks hesitating to jump onto the sofa or struggling to get up after a nap, you are likely witnessing the early signs of osteoarthritis. I see this on a daily basis as a veterinarian. Although arthritis is an irreversible and incurable disease. The “there’s nothing that can be done” mentality is quite out-of-date.

It is possible to lower the level of inflammation, manage pain and improve your dog’s health by using conventional medicines combined with clinically proven natural remedies.

Can Arthritis in Dogs Be Treated Without Medication?

Yes but with realistic expectations. Natural remedies are most effective for mild to moderate arthritis or as an adjunct to veterinary prescribed NSAIDs for severe cases. These therapies target systemic inflammation, support cartilage repair and stimulate the body’s own pain relief mechanisms.

Top 7 Natural Remedies for Dog Joint Pain & Arthritis

1. Green Lipped Mussel

This is arguably the most potent natural anti-inflammatory for dogs. Sourced from New Zealand, green-lipped mussels are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans and eicosatetraenoic acid, a unique fatty acid that reduces joint inflammation better than standard fish oil in some It can be said to be the strongest natural anti-inflammatory for dogs. The green lipped mussels found in New Zealand are very good sources of omega 3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans, and eicosatetraenoic acid which is one kind of fatty acid and works better than fish oil in preventing joint inflammations in some cases.

Usage: Freeze dried green lipped mussels extract should be taken and not cooked ones since heat makes the enzymes denatured.

Turmeric and Curcumin

Curcumin found in turmeric is an antioxidant which helps to prevent cytokine mediated inflammation.However, it has poor absorption on its own.

Warning: Inadvisable for canines with any issues with the gallbladder or receiving anticoagulants.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Arthritis is a type of inflammation. They contribute to the production of substances with anti-inflammatory effects called resolvins. Fish oil helps in reducing the symptoms but krill oil is better absorbed because of the phospholipids composition.

Dosage: The recommendation is to consume 50-75 mg of total EPA per kg of dog’s body weight per day.

4. CBD Oil

The recent studies prove the efficiency of full-spectrum CBD oil in helping with pain relief and improving the ability to move for dogs with arthritis. It does not have psychoactive effects unlike THC. CBD affects the endocannabinoid system reducing inflammation and nerve pain.

Warning: The quality of the product varies greatly.

5. Collagen & Bone Broth

Amino acids from collagen and bone broth help to rebuild the connective tissues. Even though collagen itself doesn’t stop arthritis from developing, it physically strengthens the ligaments of the joints.

6. Boswellia Serrata

Boswellia is commonly used in combination with Turmeric because it inhibits the enzyme 5 Lipoxygenase that causes pro-inflammatory leukotrienes to be produced.

7. Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These are the building blocks of cartilage. While studies are mixed on their efficacy for pain relief, they are excellent for slowing disease progression. For best results combine with MSM, a bioavailable sulfur that reduces oxidative stress.

Also Check: How to Stop a Puppy From Biting Your Hands When Playing

Physical & Lifestyle Natural Therapies

Movement is essential.

• Hydrotherapy: The buoyancy of water takes the weight off sore joints and resistance strengthens the muscles to provide joint support. This is considered the “gold standard” treatment that does not involve any medications.
• Class IV Therapeutic Laser: This treatment uses light photons to deeply affect tissues by stimulating mitochondrial ATP production. Helps to reduce pain and accelerate cellular recovery.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture for animals leads to the production of endorphins and cortisol as well as increased blood flow in affected joints. Useful in treating those dogs that are not responsive to oral treatment methods.

Three Mistakes Committed by Pet Owners

• Over supplementation: Too much of something is never good. Excessive amounts of certain minerals including calcium as well as fat-soluble vitamins lead to organ damage.
• Sudden discontinuation of drugs: NSAIDs must never be discontinued abruptly in favor of natural therapies.Pain in joints is cyclical abrupt withdrawal may lead to sharp pain
• Use of human over-the-counter drugs: Avoid administering to dogs any ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen as these result in fatal stomach ulcers and liver failure.

The Best Diet for Arthritic Dogs

Weight management is the most effective natural remedy. Excess fat produces inflammatory adipokines. Even a 6% reduction in body weight dramatically improves lameness scores.

Feed:

• High-quality lean protein.
• Omega-3 rich fish.
• Low-glycemic vegetables for antioxidants.
• Avoid: Corn, soy, wheat and high-sugar treats.

When Natural Remedy Fails

In case when the dog is suffering from pain, unable to bear weight and losing muscles in the hind legs, natural remedy will never work. The dog needs a prescription NSAIDs, Librela or surgery including joint denervation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)