Skeletal problems in dogs – how to help a dog with joint problems?

Osteoarthritis is a very common problem in dogs. This problem affects dogs of all breeds, although some breeds are more predisposed to this type of disease, such as German Shepherds, Labradors or Rottweilers. It is also estimated that about 50% of dogs over 8 years of age suffer from degenerative changes.

What are the symptoms of arthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis is the loss of joint cartilage and synovial fluid. It is said to be a multifactorial disease that can worsen as a result of choosing a specific lifestyle (diet, level of activity). This disease manifests itself in acute or chronic pain, lameness, problems with getting up, slow walking, reluctance to be active. Licking of the areas of painful joints may also occur. The pain and limited mobility caused by the disease significantly affect the comfort, daily functioning, activity, behavior and ultimately the lifespan of the animal.

How to help a dog with joint disease?

It is best for a dog with diagnosed joint disease to be under the care of an orthopedist and, if indicated, a zoophysiotherapist. After performing a full diagnostic, we suggest following the recommendations of a veterinarian. Currently, there is a very wide range of possibilities to help a dog with joint degeneration and it is the veterinarian who will help choose the most appropriate method for both the dog and the owner. It is also worth remembering the high effectiveness of nutraceuticals, which act as a support in the diet therapy of joint diseases, such as degeneration or dysplasia of the hip joint in dogs.

Nutraceuticals are biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on the body. The most helpful ones for joint disease are primarily:

• hydrolyzed collagen (including undenatured type II collagen)
• hyaluronic acid
• Boswellia serrata (Boswellia serrata)
• glucosamine and chondroitin
• New Zealand mussel (Perna canaliculus)

It is also worth remembering the beneficial and versatile effects of fatty acids from the Omega-3 family.

What is the best for dog joints?

You can find all of the above substances in Game Dog brand supplements, specifically in the AniFlexi line. This is a line created with dog joints in mind. The basis of all supplements from this line is hydrolyzed collagen and hyaluronic acid. Game Dog knows how important it is to prevent and prevent joint diseases, which is why it has created the AniFlexi Fit product for healthy and active dogs. The latest research shows that prophylactic administration of joint support supplements prevents or postpones the appearance of joint diseases. AniFlexi Fit is a product dedicated to prophylactic use in dogs that have not yet had any problems with the musculoskeletal system. This product also contains L-carnitine, which supports muscles, including the heart muscle. Another supplement worth considering is AniFlexi HA, which also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, two ingredients that stimulate the multiplication of inter-articular synovial fluid. It also contains an anti-inflammatory and analgesic substance called MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). AniFlexi HA is a product dedicated to dogs with moderate disease, including dogs with a condition such as a collapsing trachea. The third supplement in the AniFlexi line is AniFlexi Marine, which has a similar effect to AniFlexi HA, but has a different composition, because it is a supplement dedicated to allergy sufferers. The composition includes fish collagen (instead of beef), hyaluronic acid, shark cartilage, New Zealand mussel, glucosamine sulfate and vitamin C. The last supplement in the AniFlexi line is AniFlexi+ and it is the strongest product in the entire series, which at the same time has the richest composition. It should be noted that it is not recommended to give this supplement to puppies, unless they have a problem with cartilage development. The composition also includes Boswellia serrata – an extract from frankincense, a substance with a very high anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, as well as native collagen type II.

Why is it worth choosing Game Dog supplements?

The Game Dog brand is a brand created by enthusiasts, with dogs in mind that need support in the form of dietary supplements: sports dogs, working dogs, but also those that, due to their health condition, require a specialized diet. Game Dog supplements are top-quality products, made from selected ingredients, the effects of which are supported by scientific research. Our supplements are dedicated, among others, to older dogs, with a delicate digestive tract, which is why we made sure that they are easily digestible and perfectly digestible.