Arthritis is a painful disease in which the joints become inflamed. It can affect dogs of all ages but is most common in older dogs. According to the Arthritis Foundation, this disease affects one in every five dogs. Treatment includes proper weight maintenance, regular exercise, pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed by the veterinarian and over-the-counter dietary supplements. If your dog suffers from arthritis, talk to your veterinarian about a diet, exercise and drug regimen.
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Senior Formula
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If your dog is a senior, which is considered the last third of his life expectancy, consider switching to a senior formula dog food. Most dog food brands carry a senior formula. Look for a high-quality brand with a senior formula that is low in fat and high in fiber. Not only is this type of food easier for an older dog's body to digest, it also aids in weight management, an important aspect of treating arthritis. Many senior formulas also contain joint support supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin.
Weight Control
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Weight control is important in arthritis treatment because extra weight means extra stress on the joints. Have a veterinarian evaluate your dog and determine a healthy weight loss goal. Daily exercise is important for weight maintenance and for building up muscle around the joints of arthritic dogs.
Feed meals at scheduled times and remove uneaten food, rather than leaving food out all day long for your dog to "graze." You can also purchase a "diet" dog food specifically formulated for weight loss, but be sure to check the label before purchasing this type of food. The food should be meat-based and low in carbohydrates, containing few or no grain "fillers."
Glucosamine
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Glucosamine sulfate is a supplement that might strengthen cartilage. Clinical research is not yet conclusive on its effectiveness in arthritic dogs, but a number of trials have concluded that it is effective in treating mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis in humans.
It is available in the form of supplementary vitamins or treats for dogs and is added to many senior formula dog foods. There is a non-sulfated version of glucosamine that appears to be ineffective, so check labels before purchasing this supplement.
Chondroitin
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Chondroitin is another type of joint supplement marketed for joint health. It is often packaged or formulated along with glucosamine, because some studies show that the two supplements together are more effective than they are individually.
At least one major study found a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin effective in reducing arthritic pain in humans. However, because of lack of research regarding its effectiveness in dogs, the Association of American Feed Control Officials recognizes neither glucosamine nor chondroitin as essential nutrients.
Omega Fatty Acids
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Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that, for years, have been marketed for skin and coat health. Recently, researchers discovered that omegas might help reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis.
Sunflower oil and fish oil are high in omega fatty acids. There are dozens of concentrations, combinations and types of omega fatty acids, so it is best to ask your veterinarian for recommendations. You can give omegas as a supplement or purchase dog food containing omegas.
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