What is bad for dog joints?

Obesity puts extra strain on joints, and certain foods may help control the onset of arthritis. In addition, certain foods can promote or reduce inflammation levels, which can lead to arthritis pain levels. Dogs with arthritis may want to avoid these two carbohydrates: Solanum vegetables and grains/starches. These all lead to inflammation. Grains such as wheat, rice, whole grains and corn can affect blood sugar levels and increase swelling. Nightshade vegetables, including potatoes, eggplants, tomatoes and peppers, can also cause arthritis symptoms. Fatty Proteins can cause inflammation in the body, leading to pain and discomfort, while others balance the system and reduce inflammation. Omega-6 Fatty Acids increase inflammation. More specifically, the arachidonic acid in the oil turns into inflammatory compounds, and high levels of these compounds have been linked to elevated inflammation. It’s best to avoid vegetable oils, including sunflower, safflower, corn, and vegetable oils. Added Salts, Sugars, and Artificial Additives can increase inflammation. As a general rule, the more food is processed, the more likely it is to cause inflammation. Many dry dog foods available on the market contain fillers such as corn bran, grain by-products, soybean, peanut, cottonseed, or rice hulls, and modified corn starch. Not only are these foods nutritionally deplete, but they also negatively impact joint health by increasing the body’s inflammatory response. Every pound your dog puts on can cause further joint discomfort. Obesity is directly related to the onset and severity of arthritis.

Excessive weight is bad for dog joints as it is not only more weight to carry around on sore joints, but it also makes inflammation worse. Certain breeds, such as labradors, retrievers and German shepherds, are more prone to joint issues. Abnormalities of joints, caused by too little or too much exercise during puppyhood, can also be detrimental to dog joints. Running, chasing balls and turning at speed can cause too much painful strain on the joints. Slippery flooring such as wood or lino can be bad for dog joints as it can cause them to slip and put additional strain on their joints. Injuries, such as ligament damage or broken bones, can be bad for dog joints and lead to arthritis. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which are genetic conditions common in labradors and German shepherds, can also be bad for dog joints. Too much exercise, especially high-impact exercise, can be bad for dog joints, especially in dogs that are prone to arthritis.