The level of physical activity of your pet can tell you about:
- proper development of skeletal bones and muscles,
- function of joints and ligaments,
- level of energy,
- balance of their diet,
- psychological condition of the dog.
Every pet needs daily exercising in the form of walks, playing with other dogs, training and intellectual games. The level of activity depends not only on the age but also on the breed of the dog. Decorative breeds require only a 20–30-minute morning walk, while hunting breeds are needed more time. This is because the physiological processes in hunting breeds are different from decorative ones. To keep your dog healthy, it is necessary to regularly engage in its development.
Puppies’ joints require special attention during their growth period, as well as in case of limb injuries. Therefore, large and medium breeds’ puppies often have problems with articular-ligamentous apparatus, such as limb rotation (either front or hind). These joint problems are often seen in dogs due to genetics.
To diagnose joint diseases in dogs can only a vet after conducting laboratory tests and X-rays. After a thorough examination, treatment will be prescribed and care recommendations will be provided. However, few dog’s owners notice the early stages of illness and only seek veterinary care when the dog is already limping or in pain. Therefore, it is important to start preventive measures before the first symptoms appear.
Proper nutrition is crucial for joint’s health. The market for dietary supplements is varied today as for different active ingredients so with form of them: tablets, injectable forms and powders. For complex conditions, injectable ones are the most effective as they are administered directly into the joint. However, when you choose a specific chondroprotector, it is important to select supplements with beneficial contents. Veterinarians prefer supplements based on glucosamine hydrochloride (for example Cosequin DS Large, Cosequin DS Medium). This active ingredient is more bioavailable, well-absorbed and does not require stabilization.
Chondroprotectors for dogs are slow accumulative drugs, so you should not expect immediate improvement from the first day of use. Typically, a veterinarian will prescribe a one-month course of treatment or a longer duration for chronic and severe cases. For animals with chronic joint diseases, it is crucial to support them during seasonal exacerbations—autumn and spring. Preventive use of chondroprotectors should begin a month before the onset of cold and rainy weather, without waiting for the appearance of limping and pain. Don’t forget about regular veterinary check-ups and timely vaccinations. It’s important to prevent the appearance of infectious diseases that can complicate the course of existing conditions.