Watching our dogs play and enjoy life brings us so much happiness. But as they transition from their younger years to seasoned seniors, we can see them move a bit slower or with less energy. This change in pace is similar to how we humans might find ourselves moving a little differently as we age. Joint health for older dogs becomes an important factor to consider during these times.
Although these shifts in activity can occur as our dogs grow older, it's essential for us, as pet parents, to recognize and understand them. Senior dog joint care is not just about noticing changes but also about finding effective interventions. While we can't turn back time, we can certainly make their senior years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Being attentive to their needs and adapting to their changing pace will help ensure they continue to live happy, active lives during their golden years.
Common signs to look out for
If you think your dog might be experiencing joint stiffness, keep an eye out for these signs:
- Reluctance to get up – They might struggle to stand after resting
- Less active – They might play, walk, or move around less than usual
- Stiffness – Especially after they've been resting or when it's cold
- A generally lower demeanor – Your pet might seem less energetic or interested
- Grumpiness and sensitivity when being touched or stroked – They might react or shy away from affection more than usual.
Is slowing down normal?
It's common to see some decline in energy levels and enthusiasm for strenuous activities as dogs age. However, a sudden or extreme slowdown, or showing joint stiffness during movement, are some things to watch out for. Joint care for older dogs is important, and while some slowing down is a typical part of the aging process, persistent or noticeable symptoms should prompt a visit to your veterinarian to make sure that your dog is comfortable and there’s nothing that needs your attention.
5 tips for supporting senior dog’s joint health
- Give them a balanced diet – An appropriate weight is important for senior dogs. Extra pounds can exacerbate joint stiffness. By giving them a well-balanced diet and being mindful of treats, you can ensure their weight is at a healthy number. Not certain about the right food portions or type? Your veterinarian can offer personalized advice.
- Prioritize gentle movement – Your senior dog will love to stay active as they age, but it’s also a good idea to ensure the activities are gentle on their joints. Opt for light walks, water-based exercises like swimming, or low-impact agility exercises tailored for older dogs. This not only keeps their joints functioning well, but also helps maintain muscle mass.
- Supplement their diet – Supplements, especially those with ingredients to promote joint health, can be a useful addition to your ageing pup’s daily routine. Regularly including these can help support their joint health as their muzzle gets greyer.
- Offer a cozy resting spot – Senior dogs might need more rest than their younger counterparts. Investing in memory foam beds can ensure their resting time is comfortable and supportive of their joints.
- Regular veterinary check-ups – We recommend keeping up with routine vet visits for your furry friend. Your vet can monitor joint health, suggest exercises, and even offer specific dietary advice tailored to your dog's needs.
What ingredients are helpful for older dogs’ joints?
There's often a buzz about various supplements, but how do we know what’s truly useful for our older dogs? Let's spotlight some of the high-quality ingredients present in YuMOVE…
Green Lipped Mussel – This remarkable shellfish is native to New Zealand. At YuMOVE, we have a specially selected Green Lipped Mussel (GLM) that we use in our unique formulation. Our very own ActivEase® GLM has a special blend of Omega-3s, to help ease occasional joint stiffness and support mobility. What’s more, GLM is also a source of Chondroitin which helps to support healthy joints.
Manganese – When it comes to the strength, stability and flexibility of your dog’s joints, soft tissue health plays a major role. That’s why we’ve included Manganese in our YuMOVE Joint Care supplements – it supports collagen formation in the cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
Glucosamine – This ingredient helps provide the building blocks of cartilage which, in turn, helps maintain healthy joints by supporting joint structure. And we understand how important healthy joints are for our dogs to enjoy park trips, bound around with their friends, and run after their favorite ball.
Combining these and other ingredients, YuMOVE is designed to help support the joint health of senior dogs, so they can make the most of their later years.
Why are joint supplements important for a senior dog?
Joint supplements for older dogs can help ease the occasional joint stiffness our furry friends might feel as they age, letting them still enjoy walks or fun games of fetch. Wondering when to start giving these to your dog? The sooner, the better for their joint health. A high-quality hip and joint supplement can help keep them moving and playful, even as they get older. Since they've brought us so much joy, let's make sure their golden years shine too.
Explore our range of supplements that are suitable for dogs at key life stages. If you need any info on how to help support your senior dog’s joint health, our Customer Services is here to assist you – get in touch via email or phone!
