When it comes to supporting your dog’s joint health, diet plays a pivotal role. The choices you make in selecting your dog’s food can impact its overall well-being and mobility.
Omega-3 fatty acids seem to be an important nutrient for joint health. One 2016 study1 published in the journal Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids, focused on dogs with osteoarthritis, the most common cause of joint issues in dogs. The dogs either took fish oil (which is rich in omega-3s) or a placebo oil. The fish oil group had significantly lower levels of limb dysfunction and discomfort.
Similarly, in a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, dogs with osteoarthritis took either omega-3 fatty acid supplements, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (supplements commonly used to manage osteoarthritis), carprofen (an anti-inflammatory drug), or a placebo. The omega-3 and carprofen groups had significant improvements in peak vertical force, and indicator of joint health.
Given that excess weight can contribute to joint issues, lower-calorie dog foods may be a better option for promoting joint health for some dogs. Your vet can help you determine a healthy weight range for your dog and how to adjust its diet accordingly.
Keeping these factors in mind, we’ve put together a guide to the best dog foods for joint health.
