A glucosamine supplement for dogs could help keep your pet’s joints in working order
 Dogs are active animals and love nothing more than running around. But as our pets age their joints can become stiff, making everyday movement and exercise difficult. Fortunately, there are ways of making life easier for your dog which will ensure stiff joints don’t become a problem.
Why do dogs get stiff joints?
It is very common for older dogs to suffer from stiff joints, but some breeds are more at-risk than others, in particular Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Labradors and Golden Retrievers.
However, your dog doesn’t have to be one of these breeds to be affected. Other factors which could cause joint problems include excess weight, which can place strain on joints, a previous injury, which has damaged your pet’s cartilage, or arthritis, which affects one in five dogs.
Cold weather also makes mobility harder for older dogs. Make sure you monitor your dog’s activity during winter months to avoid loss of muscle tone and general fitness as these could cause further health problems for your pet.
Could glucosamine help joint stiffness?
One of the essential elements to our joints is glucosamine, a natural amino sugar found in healthy cartilage. It helps keeps joints supple and flexible and aids in cartilage repair.
Dogs have a natural supply of glucosamine as well, but the amount they can produce declines with age. A glucosamine supplement for dogs could help boost your pet’s glucosamine levels. This will help protect his joints and improve flexibility.
Top tips for joint health
Keep your dog’s joints healthy this winter with these five top tips:
1. Keep your pet warm and massage his limbs gently to help with circulation.
2. Be careful not to overfeed your dog. Less activity during the winter months means he won’t burn as many calories and excess weight could put his joints under greater strain.
3. While it’s important to continue your dog’s exercise routine throughout winter, make sure you’re not both outside in the cold for too long. Buy a coat for your dog as an extra layer of warmth.
4. Consider adding a daily glucosamine supplement to your dog’s diet. Joint pain can intensify during cold, damp months so boosting his supply of this natural compound could help relieve that achy feeling.
5. Keep your dog’s bed in a warm part of the house. Don’t place it near a door where there could be cold drafts. If he’s struggling with joint stiffness, make sure his bed or favorite rug is in an easy place for him to access, such as floor level rather than on a couch.
With extra care, you and your dog should be able to enjoy the winter months.
