As they get older, most dogs experience joint pain. If you’re dog hasn’t been his happy self lately, this could be a cause. Dogs spend their lives running, and jumping, so it’s clear their joints take a pounding. Unfortunately, some dogs’ joints just can’t take the stress anymore, and the dog begins to experience stiffness, joint pain and discomfort. Often, this discomfort can turn into a form of a degenerative joint disease, muscle atrophy, even osteoarthritis.

The dogs are experiencing this pain because the cartilage in their joints is thinning, and the cartilage cells die off, which results in inflammation in the joint and excessive fluid. As the owner, you’ll be able to notice changes in your dog’s habits and behaviors due to joint issues. Activities such as walking, running, jumping and even lying down become slowed down and appear to be a “chore” to the dog. The stairs may seem impossible for him to tackle or hopping in the car becomes tricky. As the issues worsen, you may notice your dog holding his limbs up.

If you have a bigger and heavier breed of dog, there will be a higher chance for joint issues, as well. One example: Rottweilers are prone to having ankle and knee problems.

When your dog is experiencing joint pain, there are a few treatment options you can choose from; however, you should make an appointment first with your veterinarian so he or she can determine the exact cause of your dog’s pain and the severity of the issue.

After meeting with the vet, he or she will suggest either surgical or non-surgical options based on your dog’s symptoms. Some dogs may just be put on a strict diet to lose weight (ease pressure on the joints) while others may need physical therapy, or a full joint replacement.

Often, the vet will suggest a diet or supplements that can help decrease inflammation in the joints.  Gray Muzzle sells Old Dogs! Happy Joints!, which is a “senior friendly” bite-size soft chewable. This chew helps dogs with mobility, flexibility and discomfort because it’s made from ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which decrease inflammation. Ark Naturals also sells Sea Mobility Joint Rescue, which are soft chews (meat and meat-free flavors) that help with mobility and flexibility; these chews are good for dogs with active lifestyles and any age-related mobility issues. They also contain the inflammatory-fighting ingredients glucosamine and chondroitin.

Come up with a plan with your vet on what treatment is best for your dog, as well as what activities he should or shouldn’t do currently. For preventative care and ongoing joint maintenance, vets recommend you keep your dog at a healthy weight and in good condition; dog chews, like mentioned above can also keep inflammation from flaring up.

Make sure to get your dog’s joints checked regularly at his yearly vet appointments. If you’re looking to purchase Gray Muzzle or Ark Naturals joint products, click the links. Click the Dog Wellness Products page for other products.