As pet parents, we love seeing our dogs happy and healthy, whether they’re chasing balls or snuggling with us on the couch. But something we can often overlook, especially when our pups are young and sprightly, is their joint health. Just like us, as our beloved companions age, their joints can start to feel the years. But the good news is, there's plenty we can do to help them stay limber and playful throughout their lives. So let's dive into how we can keep our furry pals bounding happily for years to come...
Understanding Joint Health in Dogs
Just like us, our dogs need their joints in tip-top shape for all their fun adventures, be it a brisk walk in the park or chasing the frisbee in the back yard. These joints are cushioned by a soft tissue called cartilage, which makes all the running, jumping and playing as comfortable as possible. But here's the thing – over time, this cartilage can experience normal wear and tear, especially as our pups grow older, which can make movement more challenging for them.
But don't worry, there's lots we can do to keep their tails wagging. Feeding them balanced meals, making sure they get plenty of play and exercise, keeping them at a healthy weight, and including some joint-supporting supplements in their daily routine can all work together to help keep your dog bounding happily through life.
Dog Joint Supplements – Which Ingredients Matter?
Hip and joint supplements can play a helpful role in your dog's joint health. There are many ingredients known to support joint health, but for today, let's focus on three in particular: Green Lipped Mussel, Manganese and Glucosamine:
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Green Lipped Mussel is a type of shellfish native to New Zealand. Here at YuMOVE, we have a carefully selected Green Lipped Mussel – also called GLM – that we use in our unique formulation. Our very own ActivEase® GLM has a special blend of Omega-3s, specifically chosen to help ease occasional joint stiffness and support mobility. It supports the body’s natural inflammatory response. GLM is also a source of Chondroitin helping to support joint structure.
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Manganese supports collagen formation in the cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Soft tissue health plays an important role in the strength, stability and flexibility of your pet’s joints, which is why Manganese is included in some joint supplements.
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Glucosamine helps provide the building blocks of cartilage. This in turn helps maintain healthy joints by supporting joint structure. And we all know how important healthy joints are for keeping your dog ready for those fun-filled trips to the dog park, playing with their buddies and chasing their favorite ball.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Joints Healthy
Want to know how to help keep your furry friend's joints in great shape? Let's check out some practical tips and steps you can take right now:
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Watch Their Weight – Carrying a few extra pounds can mean extra strain on your dog’s joints, so keeping them at a healthy weight can go a long way in keeping their joints in tip-top shape. This means keeping an eye on portion sizes, going easy on the treats, and ensuring your pet gets plenty of exercise. Not sure what's the right weight for your breed or how much food they should get? Your veterinarian is the best person to guide you on this.
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Keep Them Moving – Regular, gentle exercise helps keep your dog's joints flexible and their muscles strong, which is good news for their joint health. Think leisurely walks, a dip in the pool, or agility exercises – they all help without being too tough on the joints. Just remember not to overdo it, and always consider your dog's age, breed, and health when planning their exercise routine. A qualified professional will be able to advise you on this.
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Try Joint Supplements – As we touched on earlier, supplements that contain ingredients like Green Lipped Mussel, Manganese and Glucosamine can help support your dog's joint health. Adding these to your dog's daily routine can help keep their joints flexible. But remember, every dog is unique. What works for a Poodle might not work for a Golden Retriever. So, always check with your vet to find out which supplement would suit your dog's size, breed and lifestyle, along with the correct amount.
In Summary
Supporting your faithful friend's joints can seem like solving a puzzle. But with the right mix of nutritional food, keeping their weight in check, making sure they get enough playtime and exercise, and giving them the right supplements, you're on your way to helping their joints stay healthy and supple for all their life's adventures. And don't forget, it's never too soon to start thinking about your dog's joint health. So why wait? Start adding these simple steps into your pet care routine today.
Ready to discover the right supplement for your pet? Just hit this link to create a personalized plan for your four-legged friend. All you need to do is share some details about your pet, and we'll suggest the right supplements for them. You'll have your order in your mailbox the next working day. It's as easy as that!
