Nobody likes to see our best friend in pain. Our dogs love us unconditionally, and something is wrong when they can’t run and jump to greet us or chase after a ball in a game of fetch. Arthritis is a common and often painful condition in dogs, particularly in senior pets and certain breeds predisposed to joint problems. Fortunately, various canine arthritis supplements can help manage this condition, improve joint health, and enhance a dog’s quality of life.
The Vitalize® team is comprised of dog lovers just like you. We have working dogs, senior dogs and dogs that just want to snuggle us. We want the best for their health and welfare because we love them unconditionally, just like they love us. That’s why we created this resource to help all of us better understand canine arthritis supplements. After all, knowing when to use these supplements (and their benefits) is crucial for responsible pet care.
What Is Canine Arthritis?
Before we can discuss canine arthritis supplements, we should know more about canine arthritis. Canine arthritis, or osteoarthritis (OA), is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, which cushions the joints. As the cartilage wears down, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness and inflammation. Just like in humans, canine arthritis results from the gradual wear and tear of joints, leading to inflammation, discomfort and reduced mobility.
This condition is most common in older dogs, overweight dogs, and breeds predisposed to joint issues, such as Labradors, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. However, OA isn’t just reserved for senior dogs and can happen at any stage of your dog’s life. Since there is no treatment protocol, keeping dogs diagnosed with OA comfortable is the best method of managing mobility and minimizing pain.
When Are Arthritis Supplements Needed?
While canine arthritis supplements can benefit many dogs, they are particularly recommended in the following scenarios:
Senior Dogs
As dogs age, joint health naturally deteriorates. Supplements can help maintain flexibility and reduce pain. Dogs reach senior status at various stages as different size breeds have different lifespans. Small and medium breeds typically live longer lives so are not considered “senior” until they are at least 8 and 10 years old, respectively. Large and giant breeds live shorter, so reach senior status at 6 or 7 years old.
Large or Giant Breeds
Larger dogs are more prone to joint issues due to their weight and genetics. These bigger breeds carry more weight and are sometimes more active, their joints experience more wear and tear.
Active & Working Dogs
High-activity dogs, such as those involved in agility training, herding or hunting, put more strain on their joints and may need extra support. Their joints and bones get more of a workout since they are active. It is important that they receive a canine arthritis supplement as a preventative measure. Also ensure they receive a high-protein, high-energy diet but don’t overfeed them.
Obese Dogs
Obese dogs have more weight to carry, which also puts strain on their joints. It is important to manage their weight with diet, but don’t cut out important nutrients when you do so. Often dog owners inadvertently cut out essential vitamins and minerals when they cut their dog’s calories. That is where a supplement like Vitalize® Dog can help.
Dogs Showing Signs of Arthritis
Arthritis in dogs can strike at any time. Symptoms such as stiffness, difficulty rising, reluctance to run or jump and limping indicate potential arthritis. If your dogs show any of these signs, it is time to consult your veterinarian about the canine arthritis supplements that are best for them.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Dogs that have undergone joint surgery or experienced injuries may benefit from supplements to support healing. Although the supplement won’t necessarily speed up the healing process, it can relieve some of the pain.
How to Choose the Right Arthritis Supplement
When selecting an arthritis supplement for your dog, consider the following 5 factors:
- Veterinary Recommendation
A veterinarian-client relationship is very important. We always recommend you establish this when your pup is little, so it becomes familiar with your vet’s clinic and is accustomed to visits when it is healthy. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement.
- Ingredient Quality
Look for high-quality, natural ingredients with minimal fillers. Look for labels with the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) label.
- Effectiveness
Select canine arthritis supplements with clinically proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants. Read the label closely and look for recommendations that come from research-proven companies.
- Form & Palatability
Select a supplement your dog will readily consume. Some prefer soft chews as they view them as a yummy treat. Liquids and powders can be easily administered over food. Remember, if it doesn’t taste good your dog probably won’t eat.
- Brand Reputation
Purchase any supplement and dog food from reputable brands with good customer reviews. Has the company been around for years and have a solid foundation or does it make supplements in someone’s bathtub? Reputation is often a sign of quality and safe products.
Key Ingredients in Canine Arthritis Supplements
Arthritis supplements contain various active ingredients that target inflammation and lubrication. We’ve listed some of the most common elements found in these supplements and their functions. Although glucosamine and chondroitin are listed and often used together, research shows they are no more effective than placebo for joint discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.
Hyaluronic Acid
- A key component of joint fluid.
- Helps maintain joint lubrication and reduces stiffness.
Glucosamine
- A natural compound found in healthy cartilage.
- Helps rebuild cartilage and lubricate joints.
- Reduces inflammation and pain.
Chondroitin Sulfate
- Often combined with glucosamine to enhance joint health.
- Helps retain water in the cartilage, improving shock absorption.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
- A sulfur-containing compound that reduces inflammation.
- Supports collagen production for healthier joints.
- Provides pain relief in arthritic dogs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Found in fish oil and flaxseed.
- Possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
- Improves joint lubrication and overall mobility.
Turmeric (Curcumin)
- A natural anti-inflammatory with pain-relieving properties.
- Helps slow down the progression of arthritis.
Green-Lipped Mussel
- A natural source of omega-3s, glucosamine and chondroitin.
- Supports joint repair and reduces inflammation.
Benefits of Canine Arthritis Supplements
When administered consistently, arthritis supplements can provide multiple benefits for dogs suffering from joint issues, including reduced pain and inflammation. Supplements help dogs regain flexibility, making it easier for them to walk, run and climb stairs. Improved mobility also enhances their quality of life. Less pain leads to a happier, more active dog with more games of fetch.
Types of Canine Arthritis Supplements
There are different types of arthritis supplements available, allowing pet owners to choose the most suitable form for their dog.
- Chewable Tablets: Easy to administer and often flavored to appeal to dogs.
- Liquid Formulas: Can be mixed into food for picky eaters.
- Powders: Easily sprinkled over meals.
- Soft Chews: A treat-like form that many dogs enjoy.
- Capsules: May be preferred for precise dosage control.
Dosage & Administration
The correct dosage varies based on the dog’s weight, age and severity of arthritis. Always read and follow the label directions or your veterinarian’s recommendations. It may take several weeks to see noticeable improvements, so consistency is key.
Potential Side Effects & Precautions
While arthritis supplements are generally safe, some dogs may experience mild side effects. Side effects include tummy upset that leads to vomiting and diarrhea, allergic reactions to specific ingredients or interactions with other medications. If any of these signs or others persist, contact your veterinarian and stop using the supplements.
Vitalize Can Help
Vitalize offers two joint supplements for your dog friends. All Vitalize products contain research proven ingredients and possess quality certification from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). Vitalize products are unique because they contain MHB3®, a patented high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Furthermore, the Trixsyn® Canine Performance also contains astaxanthin, a natural red algae-derived antioxidant, that assists with soft tissue health, muscular recuperation and exercise recovery. The astaxanthin provides comfort more quickly than HA, which normally takes up to 21 days.
Both Trixsyn Canine products are simple to use, require no prescriptions and don’t require the labor or mess of a shot or topical ointment. They come in an easy-to-use pump bottle. Dosage is determined by size and weight, and each dog gets 1 to 3 pumps on their food twice daily, depending on size.
Let’s learn more about MHB3.
MHB3 Hyaluronan
MHB3 Hyaluronan is a natural hyaluronic acid (HA) bioidentical to the HA naturally produced by the body. That means there is minimal risk of complication or malabsorption.
MHB3 is unique to other hyaluronic acid ingredients on the market due to its oral liquid formulation that allows for quick absorption and maximum effectiveness. Liquid supplementation with MHB3 is research-proven to be 3.8 times more effective than dry forms of hyaluronic acid.
MHB3 and HA are complete supplements. Glucosamine and chondroitin are considered first-generation of joint products. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons now recommends against the administration of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint sufferers.
MHB3 currently holds 8 U.S. patents for its role in improving bone and joint health. Some of those include:
- For the prevention and maintenance of osteoarthritis
- For the prevention and maintenance of osteopenia – the precursor to osteoporosis
- For the prevention of osteophytes or bone spurs
- More generally, it has a role in improving joint health.
How MHB3 Helps
MHB3 improves the symptoms of osteoarthritis as well as symptom frequency.
A 30-day course of MHB3 treatment reduces friction within the joint and preserves protective cartilage, preventing the formation of bone spurs. This results in more fluid movement, less pain and increased range of motion.
Treatment with MHB3 decreases markers of bone breakdown, positively impacting bone mineral density and bone formation.
Study-backed outcomes associated with MHB3:
- Tissue hydration
- Anti-inflammation
- Cartilage protection
- Osteophyte prevention
- Pain reduction
- Increased range of motion
Introducing the Vitalize Products
Vitalize® Trixsyn® Canine
Vitalize Trixsyn Canine is a Level 1 liquid joint support for dogs that supports joint health using hyaluronic acid.
Vitalize® Trixsyn® Canine Performance
Vitalize Trixsyn Canine Performance is a Level 2 liquid product for dogs that supports total mobility utilizing hyaluronic acid and astaxanthin. It provides next-level support by supporting hip, joint and soft tissue health. The performance formula helps maintain a normal inflammatory response and supports normal exercise recovery.
Get your Vitalize Today!
If you are looking for canine arthritis supplements, we hope you will try Vitalize. While we genuinely believe incorporating Vitalize into their diet will help your pup, our real goal is to provide resources to help you care for your canine companions.
So, support your pet’s joint health with Vitalize Trixsyn. Get your Vitalize today. We have made purchasing Vitalize as easy as possible. You can visit your local dealer to purchase Vitalize products. Locate a dealer near you today.
Perhaps you prefer the convenience of online shopping. You can shop online and have Vitalize delivered right to your front door.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
Want to learn more about other ways to care for your furry friends? Visit the Vitalize blog today and sign up for our electronic newsletter.
