Joint Supplements For Large Breed Dogs: What You Need to Know
A joint supplement for large dogs prone to osteoarthritis is crucial for maintaining their mobility and overall well-being. As these breeds are susceptible to joint issues, it is important to provide them with the necessary support to alleviate discomfort and improve their quality of life. Understanding the benefits and key considerations of joint supplements for large dogs can significantly impact their joint health and mobility in the long term.
This post is all about joint supplements, especially for large dog breeds!
What factors make large dogs prone to osteoarthritis and joint pain?
20% of all dogs, 1+ years old, in North America, have osteoarthritis and joint pain. That’s 1 in every 10 dogs! Not to mention the percentage of dogs who might go under the radar and never get diagnosed. No wonder we worry about giving joint supplements to our furry friends… less health issues = long live dogs.
There are many factors that lead to increased cartilage damage and joint pain, associated with osteoarthritis. To name a few:
- Genetics: certain dog breeds are more prone than others
- Sex: male dogs have a greater risk than females (believed to be due to the sex hormone differences)
- Age: higher prevalence in older dogs (believed to be due to long-term wear and tear)
- Environmental factors, such as overall size and weight: long-term stress on the joints have been associated with the loss of cartilage in both humans and dogs
Therefore, it is extremely important especially for large dog owners to think about this issue, starting at the age of 1. Larger breed dogs have been known to develop osteoarthritis at an early age and to show more severe signs compared to smaller dogs.
Now you must be wondering, where do I even begin?! Which supplement is right for my dog?!
Don’t worry… here’s everything you need to know about joint supplements:
What is the function of joint supplements?
There are two components to what is marketed as the function of a joint supplement.
- They are often marketed as a tool to help with cartilage regrowth and repair, which is the essence behind osteoarthritis. It is the cartilage that deteriorates and causes the joints to rub together and cause pain.
- They also say it works for joint pain reduction. Many of these supplements are marketed as a tool for alleviating joint pain in dogs.
Then… do these joint supplements on the market really DO what they SAY they do?
Based on the research, sort of…
What are the most common ingredients?
The main active ingredients that you will see for most joint supplements:
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin Sulfate
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Green Lipid Mussels (GLM)
Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate are natural molecules present in your dog’s body that collaborate to address various joint-related concerns. They aid in cartilage formation and repair, while also mitigating inflammation and slowing cartilage degeneration.
Omega-3 fatty acids and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) serve as effective anti-inflammatory agents commonly included in joint supplements.
Additionally, GLM serves as an anti-inflammatory agent and contains chondroitin.
However, there hasn’t been enough research to definitively say that joint supplements are effective for relieving joint pain. A 2017 research review article found the evidence difficult to interpret, noting significant variations in factors like manufacturers, salt forms, compositions, and sources among the studies. I came across an article with a sample size of 35 dogs, which is significantly smaller than a typical college biology class. This raised doubts about the study’s validity for me.
While joint supplements are widely used and generally agreed upon for their main function, it’s unclear whether they effectively alleviate pain.
Despite this uncertainty, most veterinarians recommend a joint supplement, since they usually have no adverse effects and can be given long-term. Joint supplements are considered the best option available, aside from NSAIDs, in the hope that the ingredients may provide some relief.
Can you give too much?
The main ingredients mentioned earlier are difficult to overdose on. 3 out of the 5 ingredients are naturally produced in their bodies. Nevertheless, it’s important to seek advice from your veterinarian when making significant changes to your dog’s diet.
Are there any negative side effects?
When introducing joint supplements to your dog’s diet, it’s crucial to monitor for any adverse reactions or side effects. While the majority of dogs tolerate these supplements well, some may experience gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. It’s important to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it while monitoring your dog for any negative reactions.
In certain cases, dogs may exhibit allergic reactions to specific ingredients present in joint supplements. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, hives, swelling, or even difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs after administering a joint supplement, it’s essential to discontinue use and consult with a veterinarian promptly.
Giving your large breed dog a joint supplement is generally safe when administered as directed, overdosing can lead to potential negative side effects. Giving your dog excessive amounts of certain ingredients, such as glucosamine or chondroitin, can result in issues such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or abnormal blood clotting. Always adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines and consult with a veterinarian if in doubt.
So… should I give my dog a joint supplement?
Yes… I still think you should. If it’s known that those ingredients help with cartilage regrowth and there are no adverse effects, then why not try? Here are my top 2 options with simple ingredients and no fillers!
MYOS Muscle & Joint: Why? (This one is Jill-approved, she LOVES it. She comes running right when I open it!)
- Simple ingredients
- Filled with vitamins
- Powder form you can easily add to your pup’s meal
Fera Pet Organics Hip + Joint Goat Milk Topper: Why?
- Simple ingredients, only the necessities
- Powder form you can easily add to your pup’s meal
In conclusion, providing a joint supplement for large dogs can help improve their mobility and overall quality of life. By supporting joint health and reducing discomfort, the proper supplements can contribute to a happier and more active lifestyle for large dogs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most suitable joint supplement for your dog’s specific needs. Regular use of joint supplements, in addition to proper nutrition and exercise, can make a significant difference in maintaining the well-being of large dogs as they age!
