Caring for Your Dog's Joints at All Ages: Tips on Natural Supplementation and Proper Diet

We all want our furry friends to be as happy and healthy as possible, right? One key aspect of their health that's often overlooked is joint care. Whether you have a bouncy puppy, an energetic adult dog, or a wise senior pooch, taking care of their joints is crucial to ensuring they lead an active and comfortable life.

So, let's dive into some tips on natural supplementation and proper diet to keep those joints in tip-top shape!

Start with the Right Diet

First things first, let's talk about diet. Just like in humans, what your dog eats plays a significant role in their overall joint health.

1. Balanced Nutrition is Key
Make sure your dog's diet is balanced and rich in essential nutrients. High-quality commercial dog foods usually contain the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Look for brands that list meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with too many fillers like corn or soy.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are fantastic for joint health. They help reduce inflammation and support overall joint function. Fish oil supplements or foods rich in omega-3s, like salmon, can be a great addition to your dog's diet. Some high-quality dog foods already include these ingredients, but you can always add a little bit of fish oil to their meals.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
One of the best things you can do for your dog's joints is to keep them at a healthy weight. Excess weight puts additional stress on their joints, which can lead to problems down the line. Regular exercise and portion control are your best friends here. If you're unsure about your dog's ideal weight, a quick chat with your vet can set you on the right path.

Natural Supplements for Joint Health

Now, let's move on to some natural supplements that can give your dog's joints the extra support they need.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These two are the dynamic duo of joint supplements. Glucosamine helps in the repair and maintenance of cartilage, while chondroitin helps prevent cartilage breakdown. Together, they can improve joint function and alleviate pain. These supplements are often found in pill or chew form, making it easy to incorporate into your dog's daily routine.

It is also naturally found in cartilage and shellfish. Our senior blend- Grinkles for Wrinkles is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin and 100% natural- no use of synthetic form of supplements.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

MSM is another great supplement for joint health. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce joint pain and swelling. It's often included in joint supplement blends with glucosamine and chondroitin, providing a comprehensive approach to joint care.

It can be found naturally in foods such as eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and legumes, proving once more that a healthy and balanced diet is key to a healthy pup!

Turmeric

Turmeric isn't just for spicing up your meals; it's great for your dog's joints too! Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can add a small amount of turmeric to your dog's food or look for supplements that contain curcumin.

Our Grinkles for Wrinkles senior blend contains turmeric as well as black pepper, to help to increase the rate at which turmeric is absorbed by your dog's body.

Green-Lipped Mussel

This might sound exotic, but green-lipped mussel is a fantastic natural supplement for joint health. It's packed with omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. Plus, it has unique compounds that help reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

So of course, we had to use it for our Grinkles senior blend!

 Everyday Habits for Healthy Joints

In addition to a proper diet and supplements, there are some everyday habits that can help keep your dog's joints healthy.

1. Regular Exercise

Exercise is crucial for maintaining joint health, but it needs to be the right kind. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or gentle play are excellent for keeping joints limber without causing stress. Avoid activities that involve a lot of jumping or sudden stops and starts, especially for older dogs.

2. Comfortable Sleeping Area

Ensure your dog has a comfortable place to sleep. Orthopaedic dog beds provide support and can help alleviate joint pressure. They're especially beneficial for older dogs who might have arthritis or other joint issues.

3. Regular Vet Check-ups

Regular vet visits are essential for monitoring your dog's joint health. Your vet can spot early signs of joint problems and suggest appropriate interventions, whether it's a change in diet, adding supplements, or other treatments.

4. Massage and Physical Therapy

Yes, dogs can benefit from a good massage too! Gentle massage can help improve circulation and reduce stiffness. In some cases, physical therapy or hydrotherapy might be recommended to strengthen muscles around the joints and improve mobility.


Taking care of your dog's joints is a lifelong commitment, but with the right diet, supplements, and habits, you can help your furry friend stay active and pain-free at any age.

Remember, every dog is unique, so what works for one might not work for another. 

Feel free to share your own tips and experiences with us in the comments. We love hearing from fellow dog parents!

Want to be the first to get your paws onto the hottest topics? Subscribe to our newsletter!

--------------------------------------------------------------------

The Doggy Grub blog is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners achieve happier, healthier lives, changing the way we feed our dogs one bowl at a time! If you would like to know more about our fresh food head to Doggy Grub