What Is the Best Glucosamine for Dogs?

When it comes down to treating the painful symptoms of arthritis in your dog you have to make an educated decision for the best way to cure the pain, inflammation and limited mobility that arthritis causes. Often times people ask what is the best glucosamine for dogs. The answer is not just a straight forward, point to the shelf and say "Product X" is the one you want.

Many pet store employees would have you believe that it is that simple, however there are several items you need to consider. Starting with your dog's health...

• How old is your dog? 
• What stage of arthritis is your dog experiencing? Minor discomfort - Extreme pain. 
• Is your dog overweight? 
• Does your dog have allergies to shellfish? 
• Can your dog handle taking pills or would liquid / powder be an easier approach?

Choosing the best glucosamine for your dog isn't rocket science, you just need to be aware of your pets needs and then you also need to be aware of the various choices of products and their ingredients. There are many brands of glucosamine on the market so choosing the best one is often a case of trial and error.

Liquid Glucosamine for Dogs Vegetarian
(suitable for dogs allergic to shellfish)

These are the points you must look for when choosing a glucosamine product: 

Liquid or pill form what will your dog most likely accept easily? 

Size of dosage depending on weight your dog may require higher doses 

Product type - what are the base ingredients shellfish, vegetarian or meat? 

Other ingredients fillers, binders, color additives and the list goes on. 

Cost once you start the treatment you must continue for the life of the dog or the debilitation and degeneration will reappear.

Once you know the facts about the glucosamine products and their ingredients you can now determine which one is the best glucosamine for your dog. Glucosamine is one of many arthritis remedies that exist in the market place. There are also alternatives to glucosamine that can provide cures for arthritis in your dog.

Liquid Glucosamine for Dogs Vegetarian

Since glucosamine is naturally occurring in the dog's body it is usually easily absorbed and digested. However, even the best of glucosamines can have adverse side effects. Most are minor inconveniences for you and your dog. Side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes lack of appetite are some of the most common. With a little patience, research and good old fashioned determination you can find the best glucosamine for your dog.

Liquid Glucosamine for Small Dogs

Dogs just like people deserve the best that life has to offer. Proper nutrition is a key element in providing your dog with the best quality of life and mobility.

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Causes of Limping in Dogs

During the doggie life, certain dogs break bones, sprain muscles, tear ligaments, or slip discs all of which can result in sudden onset of limping in dogs. Torn knee ligaments occur frequently in dogs while muscle strains are less common, but when that happens dogs find it difficult to climb even the stairs. There are certain minor problems that do not require a veterinarian visit but always keep a good watch on things that can lead to serious problems in dogs due to the limping behavior.

Let us now look at some of the signs that point out that the doggie is suffering from a major medical condition while limping.

· Bobble their head while walking

· Drawing back when touched

· Drooling

· Excessive panting

· Holding up a paw

· Lack of appetite

· Shifting the weight off one of the legs to another leg

· Sitting or lying down on one side of their body

· Stumbling

· Taking smaller steps

· Vigilant while going up and down the stairs

If the dog is showing either of the signs mentioned above, then there can be several causes for the limping behavior. Some of them are:

Arthritis and degenerative joint problems

Arthritis can cause sudden limp in dogs due to excessive pressure on the joints. Hence, if you find any symptoms of arthritis take the dog to the veterinarian immediately. Hip dysplasia is a serious condition that is more prevalent in large and giant breed dogs.

Fractures and dislocation

Fractures and dislocations can result in a lot of joint pain in dogs that can also cause limping. If the dog is not putting any weight on the leg inspect for bruises, deformed areas, bone protrusion or discoloration. If you see any of these symptoms on the dog's leg; rush to the veterinarian immediately.

Infections

Even infections can cause limping in dogs. Always ensure that there is no sign of punctures, breaks or scratches in the skin of the dog. The skin should not be red, runny, tender, crusty and/or foul smelling. The pads of the dog should not have any cuts, stones, nails, glass, thorns or silvers. If you find that the dog is feverish which can be felt when you touch the site of the wound and it is warm it can indicate infection. Clean the area with a disinfectant. If the wound looks critical rush to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will prescribe some antibiotics to prevent secondary infections.

Long nails

If the nails of the paws are not cut regularly; it can cause discomfort in dogs, which results in limping. Hence, regularly trim the nails of the dog.

Obesity

Obese dogs exert a lot of stress on their joints which causes the limping. If the overweight dog falls off or jumps from a high spot it can lead to severe injuries to them. Feed him less food so that the extra weight sheds off. Restrict the number of treats. Have a regular exercise regimen for the doggie in fact; more exercise can result in limbering up the muscles and joints of the dog. Change the diet of the dog after consulting with the veterinarian.

Tick bites

Tick bites can cause Lyme disease and Rickettsial disease. Lyme disease causes the joints to swell the joints slowly but gradually. It is found in more than one leg in dogs. If the dog limps on and off then it may be a case of Lyme disease and the bad news is that it cannot be cured. Rickettsial disease is contracted from fleas, ticks or lice bites. It affects the joints of the dog. See the veterinarian immediately in either of the cases.

Having a dog myself and a successful work experience at VetSupply makes me feel obligated to educate fellow dog owners about different dog care tips. I have come across different types of dog problems during my professional life; and so in this write-up, I have utilized all my experience and enumerated some key pointers that can cause limping in dogs.

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Older Dog Health Issues and What to Do About Them

If you have a dog in your family, you hope she will live to a very old age. But, just like with humans, as a dog ages, various health issues are almost certain to show up. This article will explore some of those issues.

On a personal note, my family is fortunate to have a Dalmatian who just recently turned 17 years old. With a normal maximum lifespan of 14 years, that is old! And we have experienced many of the health issues we will discuss here.

Common Health Issues Facing Older Dogs

Senior dogs are obviously not all the same. The health concerns they experience as they get older is greatly reliant on the type of dog, its normal activity level, and how big they are. But there are some conditions that are common among most types and sizes of dogs, so we will limit this article to those issues.

Joint and Bone Issues

Arthritis is probably the most common condition experienced by our older canine friends. This is a painful inflammation of the joints

Glucosamine for Dogs

which causes a great amount of discomfort in your dog. She will typically slow down a lot, due to this discomfort.

The natural reduction in activity experienced due to arthritis means a greater probability of obesity problems, unless you counter with a reduction in her meals.

The pain and discomfort, fortunately, can be reduced significantly by using one of several anti-inflammatory drugs your veterinarian can suggest.

Your dog also may experience other bone and joint problems, such as intervertebral disk disease, where the disk becomes weaker with age. This causes a portion of the disk to protrude upward, putting pressure on the spinal cord. You probably have heard of this as either a ruptured disk or a herniated disk.

Vision Problems With Your Elderly Dog

The most common vision related issues your dog may experience as she ages are cataracts, glaucoma, and nuclear sclerosis. Cataracts and glaucoma can often lead to total blindness. Nuclear sclerosis, while it appears to be cataracts, is simply when the lens fogs due to fibers in the lens, and is normal.

Cataracts are painless, so normally they are left untreated. However, if the dog is completely blind in both eyes due to cataracts, surgery may be recommended to remove the cataract in one of the eyes.

Glaucoma, on the other hand, is extremely painful, and can result in blindness within hours. If you suspect your dog is suffering from glaucoma (she avoids bright areas, tearing is excessive, or she keeps her eyes closed), get her to a vet as soon as possible! There are certain drugs that have been successful in reducing the pressure in the eye. If the drugs fail, then surgery will be recommended.

Obesity

Becoming overweight is very common in older dogs, mainly because of the lowering activity levels. The extra weight your dog carries can result in many more problems, not only with the joints but also in the circulatory system and digestive tract.

With the decreased level of activity, it is important that you begin lowering the amount of food provided. She simply does not need the same amount of calories she used to. Also, make sure you have switched to a diet more appropriate for the senior canines.

We have discussed three of the more common problems your senior dog may experience as she ages. But, as you can see, it is possible to respond to those issues in a way to minimize pain and ensure he or she enjoys their golden years.

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Helping a Dog With Arthritis Live Comfortably

Arthritis in dogs typically becomes a problem as they age or after an injury of some sort. The painful condition can make your pet's daily life miserable. There are a few things that owners can do to help a dog with arthritis live a bit more comfortably.

If your dog's symptoms are due to obesity, then providing a proper diet will go a long way towards dog arthritis pain relief. The joints have to bear extra strain if your dog is overweight, which will only help make the condition even more painful. Make sure that your dog doesn't overeat, and ensure that the food is high-quality.

It's also important to ensure that your dog with arthritis gets a proper amount of exercise. Those with a milder condition will obviously be able to get more than those with a more severe case. If the condition is too painful, then consider letting your dog go swimming or some other non-weight bearing exercise.

Orthopedic Dog Bed

Comfortable bedding will also help in the effort for dog arthritis pain relief. The bedding should provide plenty of padding to give your canine some great rest at night You could even consider providing him with a heated bed. Make sure that his resting spot is away from drafty locations.

Dogs with arthritis don't especially appreciate having to navigate slippery surfaces. Ideally, you'll have non-skip flooring wherever your dog tends to travel. If you can, you could also consider putting a ramp on the steps outside your home since it'll make it easier for your dog to get inside.

Owners can also use massage techniques to provide dog arthritis pain relief. This helps reduce joint and muscle stiffness. Massaging your dog will also help increase blood circulation. You can ask your veterinarian to show you a few techniques to use on your dog.

Liquid Glucosamine for Dogs Vegetarian 
Suitable for Dogs Allergic to Shellfish or Beef

Supplements have also been beneficial in some cases, which is something you may also want to discuss with the vet. These supplements are aimed at increasing the health of the cartilage and joints. Two of the most common types include glucosamine and chondroitin.

Liquid Glucosamine for Small Dogs

Just like with people, increased age commonly brings about conditions such as arthritis in dogs. You can provide your dog with a better quality of life in various ways. If the pain is exacerbated by weight, then a proper diet and exercise will definitely help. Make sure that you talk to your veterinarian about all of your other options too.

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Considerations in Choosing a Dog

Choosing a pet is for some a simple thing, while for others a more than a serious endeavor. Usually, the pick of the pet can be based on location, family situation, intent, are there children, or various other factors. Where it gets complicated, or intense, is when one has to take into consideration potential health issues. And one of the more relevant issues is the propensity for hip problems. Certain breeds are more likely to develop joint issues.

Probably the most simple question when looking at a new puppy is to ask " Did the parents, or any other pups in any of their litters ever show signs of joint issues?". And before I start, I would recommend talking to a vet about exercises to maintain mobility, activities to be avoided, and the need or recommendation of adding supplements to a dog's diet.

Here is a list of 9 breeds that have been shown to have a predisposition to joint problems.

1. German Shepherds: It's well known that Shepherds are predisposed to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.

    2. Labrador Retrievers: With a propensity towards obesity, amplify stress on joints.

3. Dachshunds: With their long, low bodies, they can develop back problems, especially if they become overweight.

4. Rottweilers: Have a genetic propensity to develop hip and elbow dysplasia and even arthritis.

5. Newfoundland Retrievers: Like other big breed dogs, they can hip dysplasia /arthritis partially due to rapid growth rate.

6. Great Danes: Huge frames and rapid growth tends to lead to hip/elbow dysplasia and even arthritis.

7. Saint Bernards: Huge, fast growth can cause stress on the joints leading to hip issues.

8. Old English Sheep Dogs: Suffer the same fate as other large breeds.

9. Mastiffs: Also prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, as well as candidates for arthritis.

Don't think I'm down on any of these breeds. I had a Black Lab for quite a while. He was my best hunting partner. He loved to be out goose hunting. He was always active. He never got overweight. He never had any of these issues. I think knowledge is the greatest tool in preventing or treating conditions as best we can.

Liquid Glucosamine (Vegetarian)
Suitable for All dogs even those allergic to Beef or Shellfish 

Veterinarians sometimes recommend supplements with glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin when a dog is a young as one year, or at the time when they quit growing. This is something you, as the owner, and your veterinarian needs to talk out. After all, your dog deserves to live the best life possible. And my final advice is "Choose wisely, and enjoy your best buddy".

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All You Need To Know About Taking Care Of A Senior Dog

As the years have progressed, the greater the degree of technological advancements available. This is not only in the technology and gadgets industry, but also within medical industries including veterinarian sciences. Changes in medicine and nutrition have prolonged the life of different animals; however, it is still inevitable that your pet will age and with age comes various health problems. This article will provide information on how to provide an older dog with the most appropriate geriatric care.

The Signs Of Aging

The first signs of ageing among dogs are deterioration in optimal physical and psychological abilities. Even if the dog does not present with external signs of ageing, one will notice that senior canines have a longer recovery time from any ailments. Furthermore, the dog is no longer able to respond quickly to

For the Relief of
Joint Pain 

different stimuli. This is often due to a less effective cognitive functioning and the presence of different physical illnesses.

The most common illness that a senior dog will experience is that of arthritis. The presence of arthritis will affect the dog's movement and contribute to a greater susceptibility to falls and stumbling. Furthermore, a dog with arthritis will find it difficult to walk and may reduce movements of all sorts.

Another common affliction among older dogs is their inability to control bowel movements. Symptoms of this will be bed wetting and an increased need to 'go out'.

Tips To Caring For The Older Dog

To determine whether or not your senior dog is displaying age-related medical ailments, it is recommended that the dog has regular veterinary examinations. General geriatric examinations should be completed a minimum of twice per year and include a serious of blood tests. The results will help diagnose any conditions and assist in finding treatments.

As mentioned above, the most commons sign of aging within dogs is a reduction in movement and impaired responses to stimuli. One method to prevent these symptoms is to keep the dog active. Contrary to popular belief, senior dogs are as able as younger dogs to engage in highly stimulated activities.

A lack of movement is caused by general aging, as well as the presentation of arthritis. If the dog is showing signs of arthritis it is advised that one consult a veterinarian about joint supplements and painkillers. This medication can provide relief for the dog and will help alleviate the pain. It is also recommended that dogs with arthritis rest in warmer areas as cold air can increase joint pain.

A final tip to mention is the regulation of the senior dog's diet. Studies have shown that senior dogs who continue to eat a regular diet are at higher risk of obesity. Specially formulated food products have been created as appropriate means of changing the dog's diet regime.

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Understanding Canine Hip Dysplasia

It is an unfortunate truth that dogs of all different age groups can fall victim to hip dysplasia. In more severe cases, puppies that are as young as only five months old will start to show discomfort and pain either during exercise or shortly after. This is a condition that can and will worsen until some of the most normal daily activities become painful. If not taken care of, these dogs may end up with an inability to walk, which calls for an understanding from dog owners as to the causes, symptoms and treatment options for this condition.

Hip dysplasia is a condition that can take place in dogs, but also in cats and humans as well. Within the canine world, this is usually a condition that impacts the larger breeds, including Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and so on. However, this is a condition that can impact all different breeds and sizes of dogs.

This condition is caused by what is known as a subluxation in the joints of the hips. When this happens, there is wear and erosion of the joint that can cause pain and arthritis. There have been studies done that have tried to determine if the number of calories that a dog has taken in throughout their daily life has been a factor as well as any predisposed factors in their genetics. Of course, obesity in any animal can lead to a problem of the joints and make it very difficult for them to get around, such as hip dysplasia can.

Liquid Dog Vitamins

It is very important that your dog is able to get just the right amount of calcium as well as other valuable minerals in his or her diet so that they have less of a chance of developing issues with their hip joints. If you are still unsure if your dog is getting the right nutrition or if you own a breed that is highly susceptible to dysplasia, it is important that you talk to your veterinarian about nutrition as well as supplementation that can be helpful to your dog's joints and bones.

Liquid Glucosamine for DogsVegetarian

The right amount of exercise, without overexertion, can have a lot to do with how your dog progresses once diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Again, working closely with your veterinarian will be the best way to ensure that you are doing all that you can to improve the quality of life and range of motion that your dog has.

Liquid Glucosamine for Small Dogs

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Pain May Cause Aggression In Dogs

Aggression in dogs is actually quite unusual. Dogs are generally friendly, sociable creatures that enjoy spending time with people and with each other. When a dog shows aggression, there is always a reason for it. Behavior doesn't happen in a vacuum. There is always cause and effect, even if the cause does not seem to be very important to us as human beings.

Just as with people, aggression in dogs is usually a sign of insecurity. This can be caused by a number of different things. A very small dog may be aggressive simply as a way of being safe. We've all seen little dogs, such as Chihuahuas, that always display a defensive or even aggressive stance. The reason for this is that these little dogs want to prevent being hurt. They feel that the best defense is a good offense.

Insecurity in dogs can be caused by many circumstances. A change of household can cause a dog to feel insecure. This can mean moving from one house to another with its owner, changing owners, adding a new baby or new pet to an existing household or any other change.

One change that can definitely make a dog aggress is pain. If you have a dog that has always been friendly and non-aggressive who becomes aggressive suddenly for no apparent reason, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with your veterinarian. Your dog may be ill or injured or even heavily infested with fleas. All of these things can cause pain and discomfort that will make your dog take a defensive or even aggressive stance to prevent being hurt.

An older dog may become aggressive due to problems such as arthritis. Your vet can prescribe medications that will relieve your dog's pain and help him or her feel secure once more.

A dog that stays outdoors and does not have a lot of supervision may be injured in a number of ways. If you are foolish enough to let your dog run around loose, you can expect him or her to be hit by a car. This does not always result in severe, life-threatening injuries. A sprain or bruise hurts just as much for a dog as it does for a person and may cause your dog to show aggression to prevent being hurt more.

Dogs that are heavily infested with fleas may also be very aggressive. Flea nests cause severe itching, allergic reactions and even pain. Being infested with fleas can literally drive a dog crazy. If you are not treating your dog regularly for fleas and he or she begins to show aggression for no apparent reason, suspect fleas and see your vet for proper treatment.

Remember it is always important to consult your veterinarian about behavioral changes in your dog. No amount of behavior management or training will help if your dog is ill, injured or in pain for any reason at all.

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Dogs and Arthritis

Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a condition in which the smooth cartilage that covers and protects the ends of your dog's bones begins to wear away. When this happens it leaves the bones exposed and, on the ends of joints where the bones meet, they begin to rub against each other. This makes the condition very painful and causes inflammation. The condition often worsens as your dog gets older.

Arthritis can occur as a result of normal wear and tear on a joint and progresses as your dog ages. This is known as primary degenerative joint disease. It's not unusual for many older dogs to have some small amount of arthritis as they reach their senior years. They may move stiffly when they first get up. They may feel the cold a little more. They may have a little trouble getting up and down from their naps. Your dog will probably find it harder to use stairs.

Arthritis can also occur as the result of other conditions that affect your dog's joints such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These conditions can show up even when your dog is quite young. This is called secondary degenerative joint disease. These problems can be the result of heredity, conformation, trauma, repetitive actions such as too much exercise on hard road surfaces, and so on.

Any dog who is born with a predisposition toward a joint problem will be more likely to develop arthritis at some point in his life. This would include dogs with poor conformation (such as poor hip joints), and dogs who come from families with other dogs who have had a lot of arthritis or hip dysplasia. Any dog who has had an injury to a joint will also be more likely to develop arthritis.

Symptoms of arthritis will vary depending on the dog, the dog's age, the joints involved and the severity of the disease. The first thing most owners will notice is a change in the dog's gait. Dogs will usually try to avoid putting weight on the affected joint. There may be some muscle atrophy in the affected limb since the dog won't be using it as much. For example, if your dog has hip dysplasia in both hind legs, your dog's hind legs may begin to look thinner. He may begin to rely more on his front legs and shoulders to pull himself along so he can avoid using his rear legs as much.

Your dog may also show some changes in appetite if he is experiencing any pain. He may be touchy and irritable with other dogs in the household. In most cases the joints will not be swollen. Instead, the pain will be dull and aching so your dog won't cry out or let you know that he's hurting. Many dogs will seek out warm, soft places to sleep.

These changes may come about gradually so you may not notice them or you may attribute them to advancing age. However, if you call them to your vet's attention he or she will likely be able to confirm that your dog does have arthritis with a few tests.

In extreme cases arthritis can be treated surgically. This would include hip replacement. In most cases dogs are treated with medication for pain management.

Arthritis is usually a progressive disease but it can be mild or severe, depending on the dog. Your dog may only experience mild arthritis or he may have moderate or severe problems. Watch him and consult with your vet about treatment.

Liquid Glucosamine (Vegetarian)

Liquid Glucosamine for small dogs

Painful Arthritis can be eased in many cases by giving a glucosamine supplement to your dog.

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