Home Remedies for Joint Stiffness in Dogs

Dogs are susceptible to joint stiffness and pain just as humans are. Although there are drugs and medications to treat joint problems in dogs, these can sometimes lead to complications and other health issues. Home remedies, such as exercise, natural supplements and a good diet, can help alleviate your dog's joint problems. Although joint problems can't be cured, the pain and stiffness can be controlled so your dog can stay happy and comfortable.

  1. Massage and Stretching

    • Use your hands and fingertips to gently rub your dog's joints and surrounding muscle in small, circular movements to help alleviate the pain from swollen joints. Massaging the joints helps promote blood flow to the muscle and provides your dog with a temporary relief from the pain. Start slowly to prevent causing the dog any pain by first petting the area around the joint, and then slowly start to massage and knead the area.

    Supplements

    • Give your dog supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain cartilage in the joints. Glucosamine is an amino sugar found in glycosaminoglycans which helps build and maintain cartilage in the joints. Chondroitin helps by enhancing the production of glycosaminoglycans. Mixing in one or two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil or fish oil into your dog's wet food can also help with stiff joints, because these oils contain natural compounds and fatty acids that reduce inflammation.

    Diet

    • Arthritis and joint problems are a common problem in obese dogs. Feeding your dog a healthy, low-calorie diet with reasonable portions will control the dog's weight and alleviate a lot of the pressure on its joints. Avoid feeding your dog too many snacks or treats, because the calories in each snack add up quickly. You can also purchase special dog foods that have additives like glucosamine or omega-3 fish oils to specifically help dogs with joint problems.

    Exercise

    • Exercising your dog 15 to 30 minutes a day helps maintain its weight and strengthens the muscles that move the joints. Walking, running and going up and down stairs are all good exercises for dogs with joint problems. Swimming is one of the best exercises for dogs with joint problems because the water reduces the pressure on the joints and lets the dog move its limbs through the full range of motion.