A dog’s diet is important for their overall health but it’s also important for the care of their joints. One out of four dogs suffers from arthritis. In some cases, this is the result of old age, but it can also be caused by developmental diseases. Even dogs under one year of age can suffer from joint pain. Luckily there are many supplements and natural foods for joint care that will help relieve arthritis pain in dogs.
The top ten natural foods and supplements for joint care are:
- Celery
Excess weight will put additional pressure on a dog’s joints so it’s crucial that you feed them a healthy diet. A portion of good food to include in this diet is celery. Celery is not only low in calories, which will help your dog maintain a healthy weight, but it’s also an anti-inflammatory. Additionally, celery is high in antioxidants, fiber, amino acids, calcium and vitamins. And if celery wasn’t enough of a superfood already, it also removes uric acid. Uric acid has been known to worsen arthritis. Therefore if there’s any food you’re going to add to your dog’s diet, celery should be it.
- Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene and amino acids. Beta-carotene helps to fight inflammation, while amino acids rebuild muscles and increase antioxidant activity.
3. Ginger
Ginger consists of gingerol which has been shown to relieve arthritis pain by combating joint depletion and inflammation.
- Papaya
The papaya is high in vitamin C and contains antioxidant properties that counter cell damage. They’re also lower in citric acid than other antioxidant-rich fruits, which makes them easier to digest.
- Blueberries
Blueberries are super rich in antioxidants. In fact, in North America, they are known as the fruit with the strongest antioxidants. Furthermore, the silicon found in blueberries helps to strengthen bones as well as the connective tissue in joints.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric has several anti-inflammatory compounds that are able to decrease joint pain and stiffness. In particular, the compound curcumin inhibits the enzymes that are known for causing swelling and pain and is able to slow cell damage caused by free radicals.
7. Fish Oil
Fish oil is chock full of omega-3 fatty acids which increases joint mobility and acts as an anti-inflammatory. However, fish oil is high in calories so use in moderation in order to avoid dangerous weight gain.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is also an anti-inflammatory. Coconut oil is ideal for lubricating your dog’s joints and fighting several types of infections. The fatty acids in this oil are able to combat viral, bacterial and fungal infections that have been known to contribute to arthritis pain. In addition, this oil will give your dog a boost of energy.
- Alfalfa
The alfalfa sprout has also been known to be useful in joint care. The antioxidants in alfalfa help to the type of cellular damage that leads to joint degradation. Alfalfa also contains anti-inflammatory properties which will reduce swelling and pain. Furthermore, it is rich in nutrients, protein, and vitamins, making it a beneficial part of a dog’s healthy diet.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate Supplement
Natural supplements are also a great addition to a joint care regimen. A natural supplement is one that is either found in the body or derives from a natural source, such as a plant or animal. The best natural supplements for dogs are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Glucosamine is extracted from shellfish. It is made up of a compound of sugar and amino acid. It helps in shock absorption and the production of joint lubricants. Chondroitin sulfate is found in a dog’s cartilage. A supplement containing chondroitin sulfate will help the body repair and broken cartilage and prevent it from breaking down further.
