Winter brings cosy nights, festivals, and the joy of chilly adventures, but for our furry friends, it’s not the same. The cold weather poses serious challenges, especially when it comes to joint health. From stiffness and discomfort to difficulty in mobility, winter aggravates joint issues, particularly for senior dogs prone to arthritis.
In this blog, you’ll learn practical and effective ways to support your dog’s joint health throughout the winter season. This guide includes everything from nutrition and weight management to indoor activities and physical exercises to help your pet navigate the cold with ease. Plus, we’ve also covered some joint care supplements that can provide much-needed support. So don’t miss the end, and let’s jump right into it!
Tips to Take Care of Dog Joints in Winter
In this segment, we’ll discuss practical measures you can take to take care of your canine companions’ joints during the winter.
Watch their Weight
Many pet parents don’t pay attention, but watching your dog’s weight during winter is crucial. Obesity has an adverse impact on the joints, triggering or aggravating the symptoms of arthritis. Moreover, the decline in activity during winter and holiday treats further contributes to the weight gain. Therefore, keep their weight in check to help them navigate winters without discomfort.
Keep them Active
Your dog needs the necessary physical and mental stimulation to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. However, the snow-covered roads and winter chill make outdoors less accessible. Plan indoor games and low-impact activities such as fetch, puzzles, or hide and seek to keep them engaged and ensure they get adequate exercise It will help keep their weight in check.
Provide a Safe Environment
Along with necessary exercise, you need to provide a welcoming and comforting space to avoid boredom. You can do this by making some modifications to your home and their living space. If you have a senior dog, use dog stairs or ramps to help them climb up beds or couches. You can also use comfortable beds to make the spaces they use the most more welcoming. Furthermore, using non-slip mats is another modification you can do to avoid slips and injuries if they fall.
Massage or Physical Therapy
Winter is difficult for dogs, especially senior dogs, as the decreased activity makes joints stiff and muscles weak. It may also aggravate signs of arthritis and make movement more painful. To alleviate stiffness and discomfort, regular massage can improve blood circulation, relax muscles, and ease joint tension. You can also consider physical therapy sessions or low-impact exercises such as swimming, balance or functional exercises.
Optimal Nutrition for Joint Health
A well-balanced diet is imperative to maintain your dog’s joint health, especially during winter. Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine that support cartilage health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, dehydration is common during winter, so ensure they have fresh drinking water available at all times. Consult with your vet and discuss the diet, activity levels, parasitic treatments, and supplements required for the winter season.
Protect them from the Cold
The chilly waves and winter snow are attractive and fun to play with, but long exposure can lead to respiratory issues, frostbite, or hypothermia. Dogs, especially those with short coats, are more vulnerable to cold, making it crucial to keep them protected. Keep them inside as much as possible and nicely cover them if you have to go out. Invest in good jackets and buy booties or traction socks to protect their paws.
Dog Joint Care Supplements
Along with the measures discussed above, adding joint care supplements to your dog’s diet can effectively support their joint health.
Here are some of the most popular options you can look into.
Vet’s All Naturals Joint Support:
This holistic formulation contains Glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, ascorbic acid, sulphur, and boron to support bone, joint, and cartilage health. It’s highly beneficial for growing puppies and active dogs.
Joint Guard Powder:
This powdered supplement is effective in supporting general wear and tear, injury, and the symptoms of arthritis. Moreover, it helps reduce cartilage damage and prevent joint degradation.
Paw Osteocare Chews:
These chews are formulated with glucosamine and Chondroitinto support healthy joint function. Enriched with vitamins and minerals, they lower the chances of joint issues.
Nature’s Key Green Lipped Mussel Oil:
These capsules contain natural anti-inflammatory properties derived from green-lipped mussels to relieve joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Plus, it has omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins and minerals that support overall joint health.
All these supplements are highly effective and can support your dog’s joint health. However, it is recommended to consult your vet before administering one to your pet.
Parting Words
Winter can be challenging for your canine companion, but with proactive steps, you can ensure they remain comfortable, active, and free from joint pain. We have covered valuable practical measures that you can practice to help your dog navigate winter without any discomfort.
