Do you sometimes wonder if your dog is experiencing pain? Maybe on days when you’ve had a long walk or when your dog refuses to walk? Do you sometimes wonder if your dog is experiencing joint issues?
Dogs' joints are particularly sensitive in areas such as the hips, elbows, knees, and lower back. While some dogs are more affected than others, approximately one in five faces joint problems. How can you identify and address these issues in your dog?
Your dog might be prone to joint problems if they fall into any of these categories:
- Fast-growing puppies of large breeds
- Heavier dog breeds
- Dogs involved in intense (sporting) activities
- Overweight dogs
- Older dogs
How can you recognise joint issues in dogs?
It might be difficult to detect joint issues in dogs. Their signs can be subtle or unnoticeable. Some signs that may indicate joint problems are:
- Stiffness after walking
- Trouble jumping in and out of the car, on and off the bed, climbing stairs
- Reluctant to walk
- Being less mobile
- Limping or favoring a limb
- Irritability due to discomfort
- Changes in gait
- Pain response
7 Best Tips to Keep Your Dogs’ Joints Healthy
- Ensure that puppies of large breeds don't grow too quickly by providing them with the right nutrition from the beginning. Fidele+ puppy food, a balanced puppy food for puppies (available for small, medium and large breeds), helps ensure that their bones and joints develop at a healthy pace.
- Prevent obesity by selecting food appropriate for your dog's age, size, breed, and activity level. For overweight dogs, consider Fidele+ Weight Management Diet, available with veterinarians. You can reach out to your vet to know more about this diet. This diet features a specific formula with lower energy and fat content compared to regular food.
- Incorporate multiple short walks into your daily routine instead of infrequent long walks, especially for puppies. If necessary, set a time limit for these walks.
- Avoid activities that put excessive stress on your dog's joints, such as high jumps or abrupt stops, to prevent joint problems.
- Ensure your floors are safe for your dog. Lay down carpets to prevent slipping on slippery surfaces.
- Consider giving dietary supplements that contain glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients to help prevent joint issues like osteoarthritis. Your vet can prescribe you with the right kind of supplement for your dog.
- If you’re concerned about the severity of your dog’s joint problems, consult your veterinarian for a thorough examination.
