Joint Support
- RFFDMSUK
- Oct 31, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 18
📌 Arthritis & Joint Health in Dogs
Arthritis is increasingly recognised in dogs of all ages. While it’s often associated with older dogs, research shows:
77% of cases are linked to developmental conditions
22% occur in dogs under 1 year old!
This highlights how important early awareness and supportive care can be.
🔍 What Are Developmental Joint Conditions?
Developmental conditions affect how joints form and function over time. Common examples include:
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Degenerative joint changes, often described as osteoarthritis
Short‑term inflammation is part of normal healing, but chronic inflammation can contribute to long‑term joint deterioration.
💊 Veterinary Medication & Pain Management
Keeping your dog comfortable is essential. Many dogs benefit from a combination of veterinary treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and nutritional support.
Only a licensed vet can prescribe or adjust medication.
We never recommend stopping prescribed medication.
A good vet will explain benefits, risks, and potential interactions with natural products.
Working with a team — vets, nutritionists, physiotherapists, behaviourists — can create a well‑rounded plan.
🟢 Supportive Strategies for Joint Health
If your dog is on medication, you may wish to discuss gut, liver, and kidney support with your vet to ensure compatibility with any supplements you choose.
Additional supportive approaches include:
✔️ Pain Diary
Yorkshire Pooches Therapies offers an excellent tracking tool to help monitor changes and guide discussions with your vet.
✔️ Green‑Lipped Mussels
Found in:
Paleo Ridge Berry Good & Naturaw Forage Range
✔️ Raw Oily Fish
See our fish blog for safe options and feeding guidance.
✔️ Natural Eggshell Membrane
You can feed whole eggshell or gently peel off the membrane.
✔️ Bone Broth
Brands such as Alexander’s Natural and Karnlea (or homemade) offer gentle nutritional support.
✔️ Healthy Weight Management
Aim for Body Condition Score 5 to reduce unnecessary joint strain.
✔️ Joint Support Supplements
Options owners often explore include:
✔️ Other Supportive Additions
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
Carb‑free treats such as tendon or ligament chews
Raw meaty bones (age‑ and size‑appropriate — see our bone guide)
If you’re not feeding 100% raw, this can be a good time to explore it, as many owners find raw diets support overall wellbeing, including joint health.
👉 Join the Hop, Skip & A Jump Facebook Group for community support on Canine joint health.
🔹 Complementary & Alternative Therapies
Many owners integrate supportive therapies alongside veterinary care:
Hydrotherapy
Massage therapy
Acupuncture
Cold laser therapy
Chiropractic care
Physiotherapy
Homeopathic preparations (vet‑guided)
CBD oil (see our CBD blog — vet approval essential)
Advanced options your vet may discuss include:
Plasma cell therapy
Hydrogel injections
Stem cell therapy
Surgical interventions (case‑dependent)
Exploring different approaches can help you find what best supports your dog’s comfort.
🦴 Prioritising Mobility & Comfort
Early intervention can help slow joint deterioration.
Balanced nutrition and thoughtful lifestyle choices support long‑term wellbeing.
Combining veterinary care with holistic and nutritional support creates a comprehensive plan for joint health.
🐾 Together, we can help ensure every dog stays as comfortable, mobile, and happy as possible.
