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Joint Arthritis in Dogs : What Wear and Tear looks Like and What You Can Do

Joint Arthritis in Dogs : What Wear and Tear looks Like and What You Can Do

Wear and tear in canine joints (osteoarthritis) appears as chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility caused by cartilage deterioration. Osteoarthritis (OA) is highly prevalent in dogs, affecting at least 20% of dogs over one year old, with that number rising to over 80% in dogs over eight years old. It is a leading cause of chronic pain and mobility issues, often affecting the hips, knees, and elbows. 

 

Key Findings on Canine Osteoarthritis

  • Age Factor: Prevalence significantly increases with age; up to 50% of dogs are diagnosed between 8 and 13 years old.
  • Breed Predisposition: Specific breeds such as Rottweilers, Old English Sheepdogs, and Dogue de Bordeaux, are more predisposed to developing the condition.


Causes of Canine Osteoarthritis:

  • Impact of Weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor, putting extra pressure on joints.
  • Previous Injuries/Orthopedic Conditions: Issues like ACL tears or hip dysplasia leading to chronic inflammation.
  • Repetitive Impact: High-impact activities causing chronic wear. 

 

Physical and Behavioral Signs of Joint Pain 

To note: early signs can be subtle; chronic pain is often hidden by dogs by modifying their behavior to manage the pain. Be on the look for the following signs to varying degrees:

  • Mobility Changes: Stiffness, especially after sleeping or resting, with difficulty jumping into cars, climbing stairs, or standing while eating.
  • Gait Changes: Limping, favoring a specific limb, a "bunny hopping" gait, or walking with stiff/short strides.
  • Behavioral Changes: Increased irritability, acting withdrawn, or licking/chewing on specific joint areas.
  • Physical Changes: Swelling or warmth around the joints, as well as muscle atrophy in the hind legs.
  • Slow Down: Reduced energy and enthusiasm for walks, tiring quickly, or wanting to go on shorter walks. 

 

 

Provide Major Nutritional Support to Combat Canine Arthritis

Supplementing your dogs with key joint supporting nutrients can make all the difference in the world. Here are the major nutritional players that you can incorporate to get your dog moving smoothly and pain free.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as glucosamine and chondroitin are crucial components of canine joint cartilage and synovial fluid, acting as shock absorbers and lubricants for smooth movement. They help maintain cartilage integrity, hydrate tissues, and support ligament strength, often used to manage arthritis and support joint health. 


Key Aspects of GAGs for Canine Joints

  • Joint Structure Support: GAGs are vital to the cartilage matrix, providing structural support to the joint capsule.
  • Lubrication and Nutrition: They increase the viscosity of joint fluid (synovial fluid), which lubricates the joint and nourishes cartilage.
  • Component Structure: GAGs function by aiding in the hydration and elasticity of cartilage, helping to prevent the wear-and-tear associated with arthritis. 


Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a natural, sulfur-based anti-inflammatory compound commonly used to treat arthritis in dogs. It reduces joint pain, slows cartilage breakdown, and improves mobility. Often combined with glucosamine and chondroitin, MSM is generally safe, acting as a potent, well-tolerated nutrient.


Key Benefits of Methylsulfonylmethane  (MSM) for Canine Arthritis:

  • Reduced Inflammation: MSM lowers chronic inflammation, reducing joint pain, and discomfort.
  • Cartilage Support: It supports the repair of connective tissues and helps inhibit the breakdown of cartilage.
  • Improved Mobility: It can improve joint range of motion and reduce muscle soreness associated with exercise.


Recognizing the signs of canine arthritics are critical. Once Identified it’s especially critical to provide the nutrition your pet needs to combat this debilitating condition.


Nusentia RJX for Dogs ® is a best-in-class formulation and has been used successfully for 15 plus years with thousands of pets to reduce pain and inflammation and to restore mobility


RJX for Dogs ® contains the ingredients necessary to strengthen ligaments, tendons, and muscles, and to assist in the treatment of joint degradation (arthrosis).

Leads to:

    • Smoother joint movement
    • Increased mobility
    • Improved comfort in active or aging dogs

 

Order RJX for Dogs now and get 20% off!

 

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