What To Give Dogs For Joint Pain

Arthritis is inevitable in over 50% of dogs. True.

But there’s nothing we can do! False.

Joint related conditions aren’t exactly curable, but we can treat them and prevent the worsening of joints in our canine companions. There are supplements and medications we can give them to relieve the pain, but better yet, there are things we can do to prevent the onset of a joint related condition in the first place!

Joint problems, such as arthritis, are generally caused by inflammation around the area, which causes the breakdown of the cartilage. This makes it difficult for the bones to move freely. So, when moving in even the simplest of ways, your dog may experience extreme pain.

Here at the Petlab Co. we want to offer some effective and inexpensive solutions you can introduce into your dog's daily routine, to ensure a happier, healthier and more mobile life for your pup. Read on to find out what natural solutions we think you should try...

Natural Remedies For Joint Pain In Dogs: TURMERIC

You may have heard about the magical powers of turmeric before. Well, there’s a reason for it! The active ingredient in turmeric is called curcumin - it holds anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties! That's an almighty punch!

Turmeric For Dogs? How Does It Work?

1. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties help to prevent numerous health problems, such as kidney disease, heart disease and the spread of cancer, as well as the inflammation of joints. When joints are inflamed it becomes painful to move even the slightest bit, so reducing inflammation is key to having healthier joints and better movement!
   
   The science? Turmeric can help to regulate the protein, factor-kappa B, which is responsible for the onset of inflammation. It also obstructs production of immune cells which aid inflammation in affected areas.

2. Would you believe that a spice could actually relieve pain? Well, a study done in 2014 found that turmeric is just as effective as Ibuprofen in reducing joint pain. [1] It’s an organic and natural painkiller!

For more on how amazing turmeric is, read our blog: ‘Could This 1 Household Spice Fix Your Dog’s Achy Joints?’

How To Feed Turmeric To Dogs

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as sprinkling a bit of turmeric on top of their bowl of food – as turmeric is hard to digest. Here is a very simple way of making it digestible:

Put ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder into a cup or bowl

Add about 3-5ml of coconut oil or olive oil

Grind in some black pepper, and mix together before placing onto their food

It could take a little time for your dog’s digestive system to get used to, so start with small amounts if you need. The most you should put in one serving is ¼ tsp for every 10lbs your dog weighs.

If your dog is reluctant to eat food that has turmeric added to it, or you simply don’t want to put it directly in there, you can find curcumin supplements. These supplements are easy to hide in your dog’s food, so they won’t even notice it in there!

Natural Remedies For Joint Pain In Dogs: CINNAMON

Cinnamon is a popular spice already, because of its warm flavor and Christmassy smell. But there is so much more to it than that! Much like turmeric, it is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and its full of antioxidants. In fact, it has more antioxidants than any other spice! [2]

There are four different types of cinnamon, the two most popular being Ceylon and Cassia. Ceylon is a bit pricier, but it’s generally safer for dogs to consume, as Cassia can become damaging to the liver if given in high amounts.

Cinnamon For Dogs? How Does It Work?

1. Cinnamon is known to help maintain blood sugar levels, which is controlled by the hormone, insulin. As dogs age, they tend to put on weight, and some develop diabetes. Some cases can lead to further illnesses and ailments, such as heart disease and, you guessed it, arthritis.
   
   The more weight your dog holds, the more strain their joints are under. So, maintaining a healthy weight is vital to protecting their health and their happiness. But how does cinnamon help? Well, high blood sugar levels mean that food your dog eats is not being converted into energy. Low energy means less movement. And less movement means weight gain.

2. The other benefit comes from its anti-inflammatory properties. As we know, joint pain usually comes from an inflammation of the joints. This causes the cartilage to break down, leaving the bones to rub together – ouch!
   
   Feeding your dog cinnamon can help reduce the inflammation, and to prevent tissue damage in the joints. Protecting the joints from further harm will not only help older dogs who already suffer from joint pain, but also slow down the development of joint conditions for younger dogs.

How To Feed Cinnamon To Dogs

The best and most palatable way to feed cinnamon to your dog, is to add it to their food. You can simply add half a teaspoon of cinnamon to their food at each meal. Make sure you really mix it into their food, as it will be easier to swallow.

A lot of pet parents like to make cinnamon treats for their four-legged friends! If you enjoy baking your own treats, there are plenty of recipes out there to make some delicious dog biscuits with a festive, cinnamon kick.

Natural Remedies For Joint Pain In Dogs: Other Natural Remedies To Look Out For

1. Glucosamine: When there is damage to the cartilage, it’s likely that their Glucosamine levels are low. It is an important component of joint cartilage, as it provides it with the building blocks for growth, repair and maintenance. [3] Glucosamine also lubricates the joints, which will cushion any movement, making it easier and less painful for your pup to run and jump about.

2. MSM: MSM is an organic compound that is naturally found in dogs, as well as other animals and foods. It works to reduce pain and inflammation – if your dog suffers from joint pain, they need more MSM in their system. The science behind it is that it forms connective tissues and lowers nerve impulses that cause the pain. Impressive, right?
   

3. Vitamins C and E: These vitamins stimulate the production of the proteins, collagen and proteoglycan. This protects the strength of your dog’s joint cartilage, which will delay the deterioration of the joints.

4. Fish Oil: Fish oil reduces the stiffness, swelling and discomfort your pet feel’s in their joints. Loosening the joints will encourage them to move more! Fish Oil contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which increases blood flow – this will reduce inflammation and pain, too.

What To Give Dogs For Joint Pain: Our Final Thoughts

Finding a solution to a problem, especially one that causes your loved one’s pain, is a great feeling! Our dogs need us to be proactive for them. As joint related conditions are apparent in so many of our furry friends, you should share your new knowledge with everyone who has a dog in their family!

Adding an ingredient to your dog’s food takes almost no time at all, and it will leave them feeling pain free and happy! Reducing inflammation is key to helping out their joints, and all of these ingredients promise to do that! Regular use of these foods will give you the best results – once a week won’t hack it.

Sources

US National Library Of Medicine 1

US National Library Of Medicine 2

Arthritis Foundation