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    Joint supplements for dogs – How to choose the right one

    Author: Lucie Garabasova

    Almost every dog owner strives to give their beloved pet the best possible quality of life. An essential part of that includes pain-free movement, as dogs’ joints endure significant strain throughout their lives—especially for larger breeds, where joint strain naturally increases with size. Are you thinking about providing your dog with joint supplements? We’ll guide you on how joint supplements work, and how to choose and administer them properly.

    Which dogs need joint supplements?

    Joint supplements are most often recommended for senior dogs, very active adult dogs, or rapidly growing large-breed puppies. Many people also use them preventatively to avoid potential orthopedic issues as dogs age.

    However, determining whether your dog needs joint supplements is a nuanced decision; opinions vary, and there’s no single right answer.

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    Here are some factors to consider:

    • Size and breed: As mentioned, large and giant breeds are more prone to conditions like arthritis and dysplasia, making joint supplements commonly recommended.
    • Age: Senior dogs are at higher risk for joint diseases and arthritis. For them, joint supplements can be used as a preventative measure or to complement treatment for specific conditions.
    • Genetics: If your dog has a family history of joint issues, joint supplements are recommended, even preventively.
    • Physical activity: Very active working dogs place extra stress on their joints, so supplements can help maintain joint health and prevent injuries.

    How do joint supplements work?

    Joint supplements work based on the specific ingredients they contain. Although each works slightly differently, the goal is generally to support joint health and mobility while preventing joint diseases.

    Here’s a list of common joint supplement ingredients and their effects:

    • Glucosamine and chondroitin: Naturally found in cartilage, these are essential for joint health. Glucosamine aids cartilage formation and repair, while chondroitin helps maintain its elasticity and hydration.
    • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): An organic sulfur compound with anti-inflammatory properties that supports joint flexibility.
    • Omega-3 fatty acids: These have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation related to joint issues.
    • Vitamins and minerals: Vitamins like C, E, manganese, and zinc are essential for joint and cartilage health.
    • Antioxidants: These protect cells from free-radical damage, which also benefits joint health.
    • CBD: This non-psychoactive cannabinoid from hemp has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, also boosting vitality in senior dogs.

    It's important to remember that joint supplements are not a cure and should not replace consultation with a veterinarian.

    What does the best joint supplement from Cannadorra contain?

    Cannadorra’s natural joint supplement for dogs is made from natural ingredients, such as green-lipped mussels, shark cartilage, MSM, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and dried brewer's yeast.

    Each tablet contains CBD, which works with the dog’s endocannabinoid system to regulate inflammation and pain, supporting and regenerating cartilage while enhancing joint mobility.

    How exactly does joint nutrition with CBD work for dogs?

    CBD joint nutrition for dogs has anti-inflammatory effects and relieves pain. CBD interacts with the dog’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including inflammation and pain.

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    CBD joint nutrition for dogs supports and regenerates joint cartilage, nourishes the joints, and improves their mobility. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect.

     

    How should joint supplements be administered?

    The method and duration of administering joint supplements depend on the specific product and its form. Generally, we recommend always following the suggested daily dosage and duration for the supplement. Regular administration is usually necessary for optimal results. Ideally, we suggest taking a one-month break twice a year to prevent oversaturation in the body. It is also advisable to consult with a veterinarian or physiotherapist regarding the use of joint supplements.

    What is best for dog joint health?

    Here are a few basic tips to help protect your dog’s joints:

    • Avoid allowing your dog to walk on slippery floors, especially if they’re older.
    • If your dog tends to pull on the leash, consider using a harness instead of a collar to prevent strain on the cervical spine.
    • Avoid prolonged stair use, especially going down, as it’s hard on the neck.
    • Place your dog’s food and water bowls at an elevated height to ease strain on the neck.
    • Provide a soft resting area to prevent pressure sores.
    • Avoid sudden temperature changes; for indoor dogs, consider a suitable coat on cold days if needed.
    • Regularly visit a physiotherapist as a preventative measure against mobility issues.

    If you suspect any health issue, do not diagnose it yourself, nor rely on non-veterinarians for advice. Consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan—ideally, combined with physiotherapy and appropriate supplements.

    Joint supplements: syrup vs. tablets

    The choice between joint supplements in syrup or tablet form depends on your dog’s preferences and ability to consume the supplement.

    Here are some advantages and disadvantages of both forms:

    Syrup:

    • Absorption: Syrups may be absorbed faster in the digestive system than tablets, beneficial if quick absorption is needed.
    • Ease of administration: Some dogs prefer or find it easier to take syrup due to its liquid form. It can be given directly or mixed with food.
    • Suitable for dogs with swallowing difficulties: If your dog has trouble swallowing, a syrup may be more suitable than tablets.

    Tablets:

    • Stability and storage: Tablets may be more stable and easier to store, particularly if temperature control is important to avoid bacterial growth.
    • Dosage control: Tablets typically allow precise dosing, which can be important for controlling supplement amounts.
    • Less odor and taste: Some owners may prefer tablets as they tend to have less odor and taste compared to some syrups.

    Reviews of dog joint supplements

    It’s essential to choose a joint supplement for dogs based on previous experiences and references.

    We tested Cannadorra´s joint supplement at the AniDef shelter. Here’s the feedback:

    Max

    • An 11-year-old Czechoslovakian Wolfdog mix with a challenging past. As a high-risk dog, Max found a home at the AniDef shelter, where he lives peacefully.
    • Being an older dog, Max had been using 10% CBD oil for joint support, making him an ideal candidate to test the CBD joint supplement capsules, which replaced the CBD oil. Since switching, Max is happily running around the shelter garden.

    Tiberius

    Tiberius is an older gentleman, now 10 years old. He arrived at the shelter with significant excess weight, which had taken a toll on his musculoskeletal system. This made him an excellent candidate for CBD joint supplements. Tiberius has shown the most noticeable results so far. An important factor is that he’s gradually losing weight, which is also aided by hemp bran.

    By the third week of use, it was clear that Tiberius was getting up much more easily, which had been his biggest struggle.

    Lord

    Lord, on the other hand, arrived at the shelter quite undernourished. This, of course, had affected his already 8-year-old body. He spent a long 8 months at the shelter, during which he was able to gain weight. For thin dogs lacking muscle, we add hemp meal to their food. Finally, in mid-November, he went to his new home.

    Since he also started taking the much-needed CBD joint supplement, he received the rest of the package to continue using at home, with a recommendation to keep up with this product. The CBD joint supplement from Cannadorra has been beneficial for Lord’s worn joints, too. From an outdoor kennel where he even wore a coat, he now enjoys the warmth of a home where he can lounge on the couch and snuggle in a cozy bed. We believe this lifestyle, regular exercise, and CBD joint supplement will help him enjoy an active, pain-free old age that he truly deserves.

    Jack Daniel’s

    Jack is the youngest of our testers. Unfortunately, this beautiful German Shepherd, at only 4 years old, already suffers from grade 4 hip joint arthritis. He’s a lively, energetic dog who loves to stay active. To help him move without pain, he uses the CBD joint supplement. While it’s clear that no product can cure his condition, the supplement certainly helps ease his symptoms, providing anti-inflammatory effects, joint nourishment, and improved mobility.

    Read other references on CBD for dogs and try other veterinary products from Zelená Země, such as CBD treats or CBD drops for dogs.