Bones connect our bodies together, and the same applies to our dogs. Dogs are often the picture of resilience, but they, too, can get weak, just like us. They need the same things humans do to keep their bone health in shape. And for this, their fur parents are the only ones who can help them. So if you want to help your pets have the best days in their younger and senior years, keep reading to find out how to keep their joint health in optimal condition.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Bones in Optimal Condition
Senior dogs often experience loss of mobility, weakened bones, and joint stiffness. While this will really happen to dogs as they age, you can slow down these signs from occurring and even help them have intact joints and mobility even in their senior years. So we’ve gathered five valuable tips to promote stronger and healthier bones for your four-legged companion.
1. Exercise them regularly
Regardless of age, size, and breed, dogs need exercise. However, some activities might do more harm than good when they reach a certain age. While your puppy can race up and down the stairs or play catch and fetch easily, this will only strain the joints of senior or middle-aged dogs.
Exercises like swimming, walking, or playing with other dogs can help manage your dog’s bone health. Should your pet fracture their bones while doing any activity, rush them to a facility that offers emergency surgeries at Boulder and Westminster for immediate treatment.
2. Maintain proper weight
Like humans, being obese can lead to severe problems for your dog in the future. Excess weight can put additional strains on their joints, impairing their mobility and even weakening their bones over time. Overweight dogs are also at risk of massive adverse effects on their health, especially their heart. Keeping their weight healthy is good for their bone health and general well-being.
If you’re an owner of an overweight pet and a condition starts to develop at an unexpected event that’s causing them to struggle, immediately take them to this emergency vet facility to be checked.
3. Feed a high-quality diet
Some people often compromise on the quality due to the cost. However, dogs need a stronger and healthier diet plan to build robust bones. Choose a dog food that contains equal portions of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients. Many commercial dog foods today are formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional needs, so you won’t have to stress about choosing what to feed your pet.
But when in doubt, always ask your vet for the recommended options for your peace of mind. You may check this website to inquire about your concern.
4. Try alternative therapies
Many available alternative therapies for dogs can help boost and improve their joint health. Chiropractic, laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, electro-acupuncture, and canine sports medicine offer reliable solutions for treating and preventing joint issues. These treatments can be effective for dogs of any age and breed.
5. Buy a dog bed
Dogs that sleep on hard, cold floors are prone to have joint problems in the future, so buying the right bed is essential early on. Getting a dog bed that correctly supports bone structure at every age can slow down or even prevent bone problems that may impair or weaken their mobility during their senior years.
