Joint discomfort is a common condition among dogs of all ages and sizes. It affects their quality of life and can potentially lead to injuries and other serious conditions if pet parents don't explore their options for hip & joint support.

Our furry friends tend to be stoic when they’re young and often continue to play until the condition worsens. You can identify potential hip joint issues by observing signs like irritability and "bunny hopping."

The results of hip & joint struggles are typically more obvious in older dogs.

You can often use hip and joint supplements in conjunction with other prescribed medications to help with hip joint issues. Joint supplements help support a healthy inflammatory response and encourage cartilage and connective tissue.

As a result, hip and joint supplements may help support healthy joints and flexibility. Let’s identify some dog supplements and other options you can use for dogs with hip joint issues.

Can Hip & Joint Supplements Actually Help Dogs?

 

Yes! Hip and joint supplements can help dogs in a lot of cases. Many pet owners have reported numerous benefits after using hip joint supplements. The benefits of these supplements come from key ingredients like:

• CBD

• Glucosamine

• Green Lipped Mussel

• MSM

Lolahemp's Hip & Joint Chews contain all of these ingredients in proportional amounts, and can be a very powerful option for dogs with hip & joint issues.

Here is an in-depth review of the most popular ingredients found in our chews and some other hip joint supplements for dogs:

1. CBD

 

CBD oil can play a significant role in a vet-approved plan for your dog’s hip and joint health. Obtained from the naturally-occurring hemp plant, CBD may especially be useful for dogs experiencing a lot of discomfort and mobility issues.

Unlike THC, CBD does not contain psychoactive properties. High amounts of THC may be toxic to dogs due to THC's psychoactive properties. The hemp plant contains less than 0.3% of THC, which is a requirement by law.

CBD offers a holistic solution by helping support a normal inflammatory response, relieving joint stiffness, and promoting bone and joint health.

For many senior and disabled dogs, pain management is key in their treatment and quality of life. Hip pain can be caused by surgery procedures, injury, and chronic and progressive diseases like arthritis and hip dysplasia. CBD is a natural option that helps maintain calm and offer support during occasional discomfort, thereby promoting movement.

2. Glucosamine

 

Glucosamine is a supplement commonly recommended by veterinarians for dogs to maintain healthy cartilage and joint function. The cartilage is a strong, flexible connective tissue. It protects the body’s joints and bones. Research shows that glutamine normalizes the synovial fluid known to lubricate joints while stimulating the growth of cartilage cells.

Glucosamine is also naturally produced in your dog’s body. However, its natural production within the body may become insufficient to prevent joint damage. Therefore, it must sometimes be supplemented.

Glucosamine supplements derived from certain shellfish such as crabs, oysters, and shrimp help boost the reserve of this important nutrient. However, glucosamine is not a cure for any degenerative joint disease, including arthritis.

Glucosamine may help, and it is a good piece of the puzzle in a wider hip & joint regimen for struggling dogs.

3. Chondroitin (not included in our chews)

 

Chondroitin is a natural molecule that exists in the bodies of both humans and dogs. Just like glucosamine, chondroitin is also a major component of cartilage and helps fluid absorb into connective tissue.

Also, chondroitin plays a vital role in producing new cartilage. Some studies show that it may also block enzymes that break down cartilage.

Studies suggest that positive results may take time for chondroitin to have a significant effect; one study found that it chondroitin's impact might come after around 70 days, so this isn't necessarily a great option for dogs in immediate need of relief.

4. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

 

MSM is a naturally-occurring compound that most organisms use internally to produce bones, cartilage, and collagen. While research is limited, this supplement is used as a method to strengthen bones and joints.

MSM is considered safe for dogs and many pet owners have seen positive effects from its use.

MSM supports the natural detoxification process of the body. In doing so, it helps neutralize and eliminate toxins from cells, maintaining optimal tissue and organ health.

Studies show that Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) can strengthen the structural bonds between connective tissue, thereby promoting cartilage development and joint health. Such benefits make MSM a key ingredient, especially for adult dogs and senior dogs.

In a nutshell, active, mature dogs can benefit from MSM through support in bone and joint health, healthy inflammatory response, and digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.

5. Omega 3s

 

Omega 3s are essential fatty acids considered vital for pets. Omega 3s are regarded as ‘good fats’ and are part of polyunsaturated fatty acids that control hormones. The main types of omega-3 fatty acids include alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Studies show that DHA and EPA are the most vital omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are mostly found in fatty, cold-water fish such as sardine, salmon, tuna, and herring. On the other hand, ALA supports energy production and is mostly found in plant sources such as nuts and seeds.

Omega 3s have numerous benefits for dogs, including supporting hip joint health. Omega-3 fatty acids help support a normal inflammatory response, thereby promoting overall mobility. Alongside omega-6 fatty acids, omega-3s may help support your dog’s immune system.

Omega-3 fatty acids are known for supporting skin health and promoting a soft, silky, shiny, and healthy coat. Also, DHAs promote healthy brain activity and healthy vision development. As a result, they support cognitive function for young and mature dogs.

6. Green Lipped Mussel

 

Green lipped mussel is very high in EPA and DHA, two of the key omega-3 fatty acids dogs require most. It's also an excellent source of ETA, vitamins C, A, and B12, as well as minerals like calcium, manganese, zinc, iron, and more. 

Studies have shown that the use of green lipped mussel results in significantly higher concentrations of DHA and EPA, which are renowned for their health-boosting capabilities. 

When to Consider Hip & Joint Options for Dogs

 

Take note of things like increased irritability, limping, reluctance to jump, or not enjoying walks or games like they used to. Such signs might be indicative of potential hip or joint problems. Also, consult your veterinarian for a proper hip and joint diagnosis.

If your dog has hip or joint issues, supplements containing ingredients like CBD, glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, and more may help. Based on the reports from pet parents who have used them, many dogs do benefit from using hip joint supplements.

Veterinary medicine also advocates for the use of supplements in combination with alternative therapies such as pain medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), conservative treatment, or surgical procedures.

Pills, Chews, Oils? What's The Best for The Hip & Joints?

 

These supplements are formulated to provide holistic support for pets experiencing discomfort or limited mobility, and many of them are very similar despite having different forms.

Each form is crafted with care and may contain different ingredients that work together to offer relief to your furry companion. The main ingredients used include glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, CBD, turmeric, and omega-3s.

Here is a closer look at each of the three forms of supplements:

Chews & Treats

 

Hip & Joint chews are often the same things as "hip & joint treats," although chews tend to be more concentrated and formulated to be given at certain dosages.

These are not designed to be nutritionally complete for your pet. In other words, they're not the same as kibble or nutritional treats. Instead, they're meant to be used as a part of your dog's wellness plan.

Chews and treats can be used alongside your dog’s complete diet to provide additional benefits such as support from oxidative stress and relief from occasional joint stiffness, especially when they are experiencing joint pain.

Oils

 

Supplements can also come in the form of oils. Lolahemp's Hip & Joint Oil for Dogs includes CBD & turmeric extract.

Fish oil is another one of the best supplements that you can add to your dog’s diet. Fish oils (for example sardine and salmon) contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for supporting bone and hip joint health.

Pills, Tablets, Other Options

 

Ingredients like chondroitin and MSM can also be infused into pills and tablets. A joint capsule is an easy-to-use supplement specially formulated for dogs. These pills and tablets may contain essential ingredients that support hip joint health. The pills may also contain multivitamins like vitamins A, B, D, and E.

Hip Joint supplements may also come in other forms like probiotics and powders. Probiotics are well documented for promoting intestinal wellbeing and nourishing natural gut bacteria. Dog supplement powder may also contain ingredients that help support your dog’s immune system and hip joint health.

The Big Issue: Canine Hip Dysplasia

 

Hip joint pain may just be part of early signs of a bigger undiscovered problem: canine hip dysplasia: If hip joint clinical signs continue for an extended period, your dog may be developing hip dysplasia.

'Canine hip dysplasia' are words that terrify dog owners of large and giant breed dogs. However, canine hip dysplasia can happen to dogs of any size, including medium to large breed dogs such as Labrador retrievers and German Shepherds.

Hip dysplasia is a painful condition that drastically reduces a dog’s quality of life and is difficult for pet owners to identify. The hip is a ball and socket joint. Hip dysplasia is a hip deformity that occurs among young dogs as they grow. It may result from hip joint laxity. During the dog’s growth, the ball (the femoral head) and the socket within the pelvis must grow at the same rate. If a dog is developing hip dysplasia, this uniform growth may not occur.

Consequently, hip dysplasia leads to looseness of the joint. It may be followed by degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis as the body attempts to stabilize the loose hip joint.

After diagnosing hip dysplasia, vets may recommend conservative treatment, triple pelvic osteotomy, or femoral head ostectomy.

Veterinarians may also recommend total hip replacement to treat hip dysplasia, especially for large-breed dogs. Total hip replacement is the gold standard used to treat hip dysplasia for dogs with a moderate condition. Total hip replacement (on hind legs) can be successfully performed on dogs of any size, including larger breed puppies. Total hip replacement creates a pain-free joint and restores normal function.

Aside from total hip replacement, triple pelvic osteotomy may be used to treat dogs' hip dysplasia. Triple pelvic osteotomy involves cutting the pelvic bone in 2 or 3 places, rotating the acetabulum, and stabilizing the pelvis in the new position with metal bone plates and screws. Triple pelvic osteotomy may be used to treat hip dysplasia for dogs over 30 pounds and older than 5 months but rarely older than 1 year.

Finally, femoral head ostectomy involves a surgical procedure that restores comfortable mobility to damaged hip joints by removing the head and neck of the femur. Femoral head ostectomy is recommended primarily for small dogs (approximately under 45 pounds). For larger dogs up to 180 pounds, the vet may recommend total hip replacement.

Hip & joint supplements can be a viable way to improve your dog's quality of life when they have hip dysplasia, particularly when you start supplements early on in your dog's diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Walking Good for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia?

 

Yes, walking is a low-impact form of exercise that may benefit dogs with hip dysplasia. Walking is a great way to get your dog moving without extremely straining their hip joints.

Is Coconut Oil Good for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

 

Coconut oil can be a healthy support for canine hip dysplasia. Coconut oil contains properties that support hip joint health, like Omega-3s, while supporting a normal anti-inflammatory response.

Does CBD Oil Work for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia?

 

CBD oil can support dogs with discomfort and contribute to a healthier inflammatory response. It may be a good option to consider if your dog has hip dysplasia.

What Worsens Hip Dysplasia in Dogs?

 

Although the problem arises during the dog’s growth, hip dysplasia may worsen if the dog becomes overweight. If your dog becomes overweight, it increases the strain exerted on the joints. Therefore, pet owners should encourage exercise and use a diet that promotes weight loss.

Can Hip Dysplasia Get Better for Dogs?

 

While there is no cure for hip dysplasia in dogs, there are means that can help better your dog’s health. Depending on your dog’s weight and age, triple pelvic osteotomy, femoral head ostectomy, or total hip replacement may restore your dog’s hip joint function and make your dog comfortable. Vets may also recommend metal & plastic implants for hind limb lameness.

How Long Will it Take to Improve My Dog's Hip & Joint Health?

 

It may take approximately 4 to 6 weeks to improve your dog’s hip and joint health. Supporting joint cartilage, aiding connective tissue, and reducing discomfort takes time, even with consistent use of supplement ingredients like omega-3s, CBD oil, and MSM.

Is CBD or Glucosamine Better for Dogs?

 

Research is limited on both of these options, so there isn't a clear answer for all dogs. Each dog will respond differently to either option, so it's important to talk with your veterinarian and explore what's best for your pet.