Are you wondering how to spot the signs of dog joint pain or how to naturally treat joint pain and arthritis in dogs? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Around here, we are a little obsessed with joint pain and osteoarthritis, after all, we’ve made it our mission to help as many dogs as pawsible postpone painful joint and cartilage deterioration while maintaining Alpha status.

A lifelong passion for hunting alongside our trusty family dogs has shown us that no matter how well you feed, exercise and treat your dogs, they are still at risk for osteoarthritis and early onset joint pain. You must do something extra to protect sensitive joints and connective tissues from inflammation and ultimately deterioration. 

Excessive or repetitive wear and tear is a common contributing factor to the development of arthritis. You should always be on the lookout for signs of dog joint pain, especially if your dog hunts, spends time hiking with you, or leads an active lifestyle of any kind.

6 Signs of Dog Joint Pain  

Osteoarthritis in dogs and humans is a non-curable chronic disease that only gets worse over time. That doesn’t mean you can’t slow down its progression, because you can. Don’t ignore the signs! The sooner you address the issue, the more options you have.

1. Your dog is stiff

Stiffness is one of the very first indicators of inflammation and joint pain.

2. Your dog is limping

Limping or favoring one leg over the other is one of the most common signs of joint pain and arthritis. The limp may be worse when your dog first gets up and become less noticeable as your dog moves around more.

3. Your dog is reluctant to do normal everyday things

One of the first signs I knew something wasn’t right with my dog Trigger was when he stopped following me around the house as much after an active day of hunting. He was far more content to stay put than to get up and down. Your dog may not want to go up the stairs, or jump in the car, no matter what it is pay close attention to these types of changes.

4. Your dog is overly tired

If your dog is sleeping or resting more than usual, it might indicate worsening of arthritis.

5. Your dog is abnormally moody

If you’re not feeling good it’s perfectly normal to get a little moody.  The same is true for your dog.

6. Your dog is gaining weight

If your dog isn’t moving around as much but continues to eat the same number of calories, he’ll eventually start to pack on the pounds. Unfortunately, excess weight puts more stress on joints, leading to worsening of the problem.

7. Your dog is constantly licking or chewing at a certain area

Many dogs lick and chew at an area if it's bothering them. Several factors can cause this same response, such as a skin infection, allergy, or injury, but arthritis and joint pain could be to blame.

More serious signs of joint pain and worsening arthritis in dogs:

• Muscle atrophy
• Spinal issues (abnormal posture or a hunch in back, lameness)
• Not wanting to eat
• Drastic behavioral or activity changes

How to Naturally Treat Dog Joint Pain

So, you think your dog might be showing signs of joint pain—now what? First and foremost, take your dog to a trusted veterinarian. Secondly, make sure your dog is eating a well-balanced diet and maintains a healthy weight. Your dog still needs plenty of exercise—preferably in shorter bursts spread throughout the day.

Additionally, adding certain supplements to your dog’s diet can help protect against inflammation and joint damage, and may even help the body rebuild damaged cartilage.

Glucosamine + MSM + Chondroitin Sulfate 

Glucosamine, MSM, and Chondroitin Sulfate are important ingredients to help extend range of motion for your dog’s hips, elbows, spine and paws. Each ingredient is associated with reducing joint pain, and glucosamine is believed to help the body rebuild damaged cartilage. Some research suggests that each of these substances becomes more powerful when used together. That’s why we packed all 3 into Free Range, a specially formulated supplement for hunting dogs and other active dogs. 

Try Free Range

 Extend Your Dog’s Range of Motion

Krill Oil

Krill Oil supplies your dog with the healthiest, easiest to digest, and most sustainable source of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are crucial to lubricate joints, reduce blood clots, improve skin and coat, and they can even improve brain health and eyesight. Some studies have found a reduction in joint pain after using krill oil for one or more months. 

Vitality is the first krill oil supplement made especially for hunting dogs and other active dogs. Each soft gel is packed with 500 mg of sustainably sourced krill oil from Alaska’s pure waters.

Try Vitality