Your Guide to Dog Hip and Joint Care

Did you know that 1 in 5 dogs show signs of arthritis before the age of one? Dogs are born to move, and running, hunting, and playing are part of their nature. Understanding the importance of hip and joint care for dogs and implementing preventative measures can significantly enhance their quality of life and mobility.

Understanding Canine Hip and Joint Health

The hips and joints play a critical role in a dog's mobility and overall functionality. Unfortunately, various factors, including genetics, age, breed predisposition, and lifestyle, can contribute to the development of hip and joint issues in dogs. Common conditions affecting canine hips and joints include hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, ligament injuries (such as cruciate ligament tears), and degenerative joint disease.

Signs of Hip and Joint Problems in Dogs

• Limping or favoring one leg
• Stiffness, especially after rest or exercise
• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump
• Difficulty rising from a lying position
• Noticeable decrease in activity level
• Vocalizing or showing signs of pain when touched

Strategies for Dog Hip and Joint Care

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts unnecessary strain on a dog's joints, exacerbating hip and joint issues. Help your dog maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Regular Exercise: Low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, and gentle play, can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support joint health without placing excessive stress on the joints.

Orthopedic Beds and Supportive Surfaces: Provide your dog with a comfortable orthopedic bed or supportive surface that cushions their joints and provides adequate support while resting or sleeping.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: Physical therapy techniques, such as hydrotherapy, massage, and controlled exercises, can help improve range of motion, alleviate pain, and strengthen muscles surrounding the hips and joints.

Joint Supplements: Consider adding a joint supplement to your dog’s diet to help support joint function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort associated with hip and joint issues.

Medication and Pain Management: In severe cases or during flare-ups of joint pain, your veterinarian may prescribe pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage discomfort and improve mobility.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's hip and joint health and address any issues promptly. Early intervention can help slow the progression of degenerative joint conditions and improve treatment outcomes.

Caring for your dog's hips and joints is essential for ensuring their comfort, mobility, and overall well-being as they age. By understanding the signs of hip and joint problems, implementing preventive measures, and providing appropriate care and support, you can help your dog enjoy an active, pain-free life for years to come. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance on managing your dog's hip and joint health effectively.

What Are the Best Joint Supplements for Dogs?

When choosing a dog joint supplement, there are a few beneficial ingredients to look for that can naturally support your dog’s mobility and joint health. Glucosamine for dogs plays a vital role in building and maintaining healthy joints. Other ingredients that support hip and joint health include MSM, a natural sulfur compound that acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory, and chondroitin, which helps support the growth and maintenance of cartilage. It’s never too early to start incorporating a hip and joint supplement into your dog’s daily routine!

BeneBoost Hip & Joint is an easy-to-use liquid supplement for your dog that contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM to help support joint flexibility and mobility. Use the recommended number of pumps per day based on your dog's weight to help relieve occasional joint stiffness and help maintain healthy bone and joint function.

*All information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the expert advice of a veterinarian or veterinary practitioner.