Joint health is critical for maintaining mobility, comfort, and quality of life in our dogs. That’s not limited to ageing dogs with conditions like osteoarthritis (OA). Liigament injuries, joint instability, cartilage issues and inflammation can also impact younger and otherwise healthy and dogs.
Supporting joint health requires a multifaceted approach, with nutrition playing a central role. Incorporating anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, cartilage-repairing glucosamine, antioxidant-rich foods and essential minerals like manganese can significantly improve joint function and slow the progression of joint disorders like osteoarthritis, which is a common cause of lameness.
*****
Key Nutrients for Joint Health
Therapeutic diets to improve joint health are nothing new and the use of nutraceuticals has been shown to improve joint status[1]. The following nutrients are important in promoting healthy joints and preventing or managing joint issues. All of them will be provided in sufficient quantities in a varied and balanced diet that also takes nutrient digestibility into account.
Amino Acids
Role
Amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline are integral components of collagen, a primary structural protein in cartilage and connective tissue. Sulphur-containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine contribute to cartilage repair and the synthesis of joint-protective compounds.
Food sources include:
– Bone broth
– Lean meats (e.g., chicken, turkey, beef)
– Eggs (rich in sulphur-containing amino acids)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Role
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have potent anti-inflammatory properties. These fatty acids reduce joint swelling, alleviate pain, and slow cartilage degradation in dogs with joint conditions. Omega-3s also support overall cellular health and promote mobility in ageing or arthritic dogs.
Studies have shown that diets enriched with omega-3 fatty acids improve joint function, reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, and enhance overall mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. These fatty acids also slow cartilage degradation in arthritic joints: long-term supplementation of omega-3s has been associated with measurable reductions in joint pain and stiffness [2], [3], [4].
Food sources include:
Oily fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel
Flaxseed oil
Chia seeds
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Role
Essential for maintaining and repairing cartilage. Glucosamine aids in the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, while chondroitin helps prevent cartilage breakdown.
Studies show these compounds improve joint function[5] and alleviate pain in dogs with joint issues, particularly in longer-term care[6]
Food sources include:
Green-lipped mussel[7], [8]
Animal cartilage (e.g., chicken feet, beef trachea, or home-made broth from bones)
Shellfish (crustacean shells, e.g., shrimp and crab)
Collagen
Role
Collagen provides structural integrity to connective tissues and aids in cartilage repair.
It has been shown to enhance joint health[9] and prevent the progression of degenerative joint conditions in dogs[10]. (Dogs require Vitamin C for collagen synthesis.) Amino acids, which are integral components of collagen, contribute to cartilage repair and the synthesis of joint-protective compounds[11].
Food sources include:
Bone broth (low-sodium, home-made)
Fish skin
Gelatine
Calcium
Role
Calcium is fundamental to bone density and skeletal structure. It contributes to the rigidity of bones and the mineralisation process that keeps them strong. Calcium also plays a role in muscle contraction, nerve signalling, and blood clotting, all of which indirectly support joint health by maintaining the systems that stabilise and protect joints.
Studies in canine nutrition have highlighted the need for balanced calcium levels to prevent skeletal deformities, especially in growing puppies. Excessive or deficient calcium can both negatively impact bone development and joint stability.
Examples of food sources include:
Dairy products (in moderation, if tolerated)
Leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach)
Ground eggshells
Phosphorus
Role
Phosphorus is a critical component of bones and teeth, working in tandem with calcium to maintain skeletal integrity and strength. It also plays a key role in energy metabolism and the formation of cellular structures, which are essential for overall mobility and joint health.
Research highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio and that calcium and phosphorus work with vitamin D, which also plays a role in bone growth[12].
Examples of food sources include:
Meat and poultry
Fish (e.g., salmon, sardines)
Eggs
Grains such as quinoa and freekeh
Vitamin D
Role:
Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus absorption, both of which are critical for maintaining bone strength and joint stability. It ensures proper mineralisation of bones and prevents skeletal abnormalities, which can reduce stress on joints. Additionally, vitamin D supports muscle function, indirectly enhancing joint stability[13].
Adequate vitamin D levels are associated with improved skeletal integrity and reduced incidence of bone and joint disorders.
Food sources include:
Egg yolks
Oily fish such as salmon and sardines
Mushrooms
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Role
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Turmeric helps to minimise joint inflammation and protects cartilage from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, slowing the progression of joint degeneration.
Curcumin has been shown to reduce joint inflammation in dogs with chronic conditions like osteoarthritis[14]. Although studies in humans show that black pepper enhances curcumin absorption, similar significant effects in dogs have not been established.
Food sources include:
Fresh turmeric root, turmeric juice or turmeric powder
Methylsulfonylmethane ( MSM)
Role
MSM is a naturally occurring compound that is used for several purposes, most commonly as an anti-inflammatory. Supplements are used to target conditions including inflammation, joint/muscle pain and oxidative stress.
Studies have shown that the health benefits of MSM are wide-ranging[15], and even include disorders of the skin[16].
Food sources include:
Protein-rich foods (chicken, beef, fish)
Legumes
Cruciferous vegetables (in the form of glucosinolates)
Manganese
Role:
Manganese is essential for the formation of cartilage and bone. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen production, which supports the structural integrity of joints. Manganese contributes to overall joint health and resilience by supporting the formation of collagen its role in energy metabolism and antioxidant defence.
A balanced diet will provide sufficient manganese. Beware of overdosing on joint supplementation.
Food sources include:
Pumpkin seeds (in moderation due to calorie content)
Green leafy vegetables
Quinoa, freekeh
Magnesium
Role
Magnesium is essential for the formation of bone and cartilage. It contributes to bone density by activating vitamin D and ensuring proper calcium absorption. Magnesium also plays a key role in muscle function, energy metabolism, and nerve transmission, all of which are important for maintaining healthy joints and reducing stress on skeletal structures.
Studies in animal health show that adequate magnesium intake improves the structural integrity of bones and prevents joint stress from imbalanced skeletal loads.
Food sources include:
Pumpkin seeds
Leafy greens (e.g., spinach)
Whole grains (dog-safe options like quinoa)
Antioxidants
Role
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage to joint tissues and accelerate cartilage degradation. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants help protect cartilage and promote healthier joints, while also mitigating inflammation associated with joint conditions and supporting overall mobility.
Research has shown that a diet rich in antioxidants can slow the progression of degenerative joint diseases in dogs. Compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols, along with vitamins, contribute to overall joint health and cellular repair[17].
Food sources include:
Blueberries, blackberries
Spinach, kale
Sweet potatoes, carrots (rich in beta-carotene)
Sample Joint-Supportive Ingredients
Incorporate these joint-supporting foods into a dog’s diet in safe, appropriate amounts:
- Fish (e.g., salmon, sardines)
- Cruciferous veg and leafy greens (e.g., spinach, kale, broccoli)
- Berries (e.g., blueberries, blackberries)
- Bone broth (rich in collagen and glycosaminoglycans)
- Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrot (antioxidant-rich and easy to digest)
- Pumpkin seeds (manganese source)
- Turmeric (natural anti-inflammatory)
- Chia and flax seeds (Omega-3 fatty acids)
*****
Conclusion
Studies into canine joint pain and osteoarthritis are also investigating alternative treatment and the use of nutraceuticals for canine joint disorders. For example, it has now been shown in one study[18] that the use of vitamin E reduced inflammation in dogs and improved signs of pain.
Nutrition can enhance mobility and quality of life for dogs at any stage of life but should of course be combined with weight management and exercise. Regular, moderate exercise strengthens muscles, supports joint stability, and prevents stiffness, particularly in ageing dogs. Combining these elements creates a holistic approach to joint care.
*****
References:
[1] Johnson, K. A., Lee, A. H., & Swanson, K. S. (2020). Nutrition and nutraceuticals in the changing management of osteoarthritis for dogs and cats. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 256(12), 1335-1341. Retrieved Dec 10, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.256.12.1335
[2] Stephen J. Mehler, Lauren R. May, Crystal King, William S. Harris, Zubin Shah, A prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on the clinical signs and erythrocyte membrane polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations in dogs with osteoarthritis, Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, Volume 109, 2016, Pages 1-7, ISSN 0952-327, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plefa.2016.03.015.
[3] Barbeau-Grégoire, M., Otis, C., Cournoyer, A., et al. (2022) A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis of enriched therapeutic diets and nutraceuticals in canine and feline osteoarthritis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 23, 10384
[4] Roush JK, Dodd CE, Fritsch DA, et al. Multicenter veterinary practice assessment of the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on osteoarthritis in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2010;236:59–66.
[5] McCarthy, G.; O’Donovan, J.; Jones, B.; McAllister, H.; Seed, M.; Mooney, C. Randomised double-blind, positive-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate for the treatment of dogs with osteoarthritis. Vet. J. 2007, 174, 54–61.
[6] Fernández-Martín, S.; González-Cantalapiedra, A.; Muñoz, F.; García-González, M.; Permuy, M.; López-Peña, M. Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate: Is There Any Scientific Evidence for Their Effectiveness as Disease-Modifying Drugs in Knee Osteoarthritis Preclinical Studies?—A Systematic Review from 2000 to 2021. Animals 2021, 11, 1608. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061608
[7] Vijarnsorn, M., Kwananocha, I., Kashemsant, N., et al. (2019) The effectiveness of marine based fatty acid compound (PCSO-524) and firocoxib in the treatment of canine osteoarthritis. BMC Veterinary Research 15, 349
[8] Servet, Eric, Vincent Biourge, and Philippe Marniquet. “Dietary Intervention Can Improve Clinical Signs in Osteoarthritic Dogs1–3.” The Journal of nutrition 136.7 (2006): 1995S-1997S.
[9] Prink A, Hayashi K, Kim SY, Kim J, Kapatkin A. Evaluation of a collagenase generated osteoarthritis biomarker in the synovial fluid from elbow joints of dogs with medial coronoid disease and unaffected dogs. Vet Surg. 2010; 39: 65–70. 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2009.00604.x
[10] Vilar JM, Rubio M, Spinella G, Cuervo B, Sopena J, Cugat R, Garcia-Balletbó M, Dominguez JM, Granados M, Tvarijonaviciute A, Ceron JJ, Carrillo JM. Serum Collagen Type II Cleavage Epitope and Serum Hyaluronic Acid as Biomarkers for Treatment Monitoring of Dogs with Hip Osteoarthritis. PLoS One. 2016 Feb 17;11(2):e0149472. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149472. PMID: 26886592; PMCID: PMC4757546.
[11] Hamada K, Matsumoto K, Okamura K, et al. Effect of amino acids and glucose on exercise-induced gut and skeletal muscle proteolysis in dogs. Metabolism 1999; 48:161-166.
[12] Calcium, Phosphorus, and Vitamin D in Dogs and Cats Stockman, Jonathan et al. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice, Volume 51, Issue 3, 623 – 634
[13] Calcium, Phosphorus, and Vitamin D in Dogs and Cats Stockman, Jonathan et al. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice, Volume 51, Issue 3, 623 – 634
[14] Henrotin, Y., Clutterbuck, A. L., Allaway, D., et al. (2010) Biological actions of curcumin on articular chondrocytes. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage 18, 141-149
[15] Ali Salaritabar, Behrad Darvish, Farzaneh Hadjiakhoondi, Azadeh Manayi, Chapter 2.11 – Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Nonvitamin and Nonmineral Nutritional Supplements, Academic Press, 2019, Pages 93-98, ISBN 9780128124918, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-812491-8.00012-6.
[16] Ann M. Rashmir-Raven, Chapter 18 – Disorders of the Skin, Equine Internal Medicine (Fourth Edition), W.B. Saunders, 2018, Pages 1159-1216, ISBN 9780323443296, https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-44329-6.00018-8. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780323443296000188).
[17] Hall JA, MacLeay J, Yerramilli M, Obare E, Yerramilli M, Schiefelbein H, Paetau-Robinson I, Jewell DE. Positive Impact of Nutritional Interventions on Serum Symmetric Dimethylarginine and Creatinine Concentrations in Client-Owned Geriatric Dogs. PLoS One. 2016 Apr 18;11(4):e0153653. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153653. PMID: 27088214; PMCID: PMC4835100.
[18] Rhouma M, de Oliveira El Warrak A, Troncy E, Beaudry F, Chorfi Y. Anti-inflammatory response of dietary vitamin E and its effects on pain and joint structures during early stages of surgically induced osteoarthritis in dogs. Can J Vet Res. 2013 Jul;77(3):191-8. PMID: 24101795; PMCID: PMC3700444.
Important Considerations:
- Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
- If you are feeding commercial food, check the label for ingredients before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
- Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
- Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
- I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
- Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.
- I am not a professional nutritionist but supporting research is cited.
- The recipes shared were created by me and tested in my kitchen – and tasted and approved by our doggy friends!