As the winter sets in, the cold weather brings a host of troubles for our canine companions, especially those with joint issues. Just like us, dogs also experience joint stiffening and mobility discomfort during the colder months.
As a dog parent, understanding the challenges dogs face during winter is crucial for ensuring the comfort and safety of your beloved doggo. In this blog, we’ll help you understand how winter affects your dog’s joints and the practical steps you can take to help maintain their joint health.
Come along and take your notepads out!
Ways to Maintain Dog Joint Health in Winter
In this segment, we’ll discuss some practical measures you can implement to maintain your dog’s joint health during winter.
1. Watch their weight
Joint issues and excess weight go hand in hand, as obesity puts more pressure on the joints, aggravating the symptoms of arthritis. It’s especially concerning during the cold weather, as lack of activity and extra treats during the winter holidays can contribute to more weight gain. Minding your dog’s weight will decrease the pressure on their joints and help them navigate through the winter comfortably.
2. Keep them engaged
With chilly winds and snow-covered roads, winters often limit movement, but your dog needs adequate physical and mental stimulation. So, while your dog spends more time indoors, indulge them in low-impact activities and games to keep them engaged. Activities like fetch, puzzles, or hide and seek can get them the required exercise and also aid in maintaining their weight.
3. Massage or physical therapy
The decreased level of activity due to cold weather and shorter days leads to stiffening and muscle weakness, further aggravating arthritis symptoms. Massage can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and aid in mobility. Other physical activities like swimming, balance exercises, functional exercises, etc. also aid in improving muscle and joint strength.
4. Regular vet check-ups
Keep up with the vet visits and check-ups as dogs with joint issues need more attention. Discuss the diet, challenges, activity levels, medications, and supplements required for the winter season. The vet will suggest a suitable diet or treatment and make adjustments depending on the severity of the joint issue. Along with a balanced diet and schedule, make sure they have fresh water to drink at all times, as dehydration is common in winter.
5. Home modification
You can make some modifications to your home to provide a warm and comfortable environment for your dog. Use dog stairs or ramps to assist them in climbing beds or couches and provide comfortable beds at places they use the most. Additionally, place carpets or non-slip mats on hardwood or tile floors to avoid slips and injury if they fall.
6. Protect them from the cold
It’s crucial to protect your dog from the cold weather, as long exposure can bring varied troubles such as respiratory issues, frostbite, or hypothermia. So, properly layer your dog, use booties or traction socks, keep them hydrated, and maintain their hair and coat during winter. Also, plan outdoor walks during the day when it’s comparatively warmer outside.
Dog Joint Care Supplements
Apart from the tips discussed above, you can include joint care supplements in your dog’s diet to support their joint health during winter.
Dorwest Green Releaf Tablets
These tablets are rich in soothing and pH-balancing properties to support a dog’s joints, skin, and urinary health.
Arthrimed Joint Care Tablets for Dogs and Cats
With ascorbic acid, glucosamine, and green-lipped mussel, along with other ingredients, this supplement effectively helps to mitigate inflammation and pain.
Bob Martin Arthricare Extra Strong
This extra-strong supplement helps alleviate bone and joint-related pain and helps improve mobility in older dogs.
Aristopet Glucosamine Tablets
This potent supplement contains glucosamine sulfate and aids in cartilage growth and strengthens ligaments and tendons.
Paw OsteoSupport Joint Care Powder
This 100% natural, highly concentrated supplement is ideal for supporting joint health in aging dogs and aiding in resolving signs of arthritis and mobility issues.
Parting Words
Winter brings along the perfect opportunities to snuggle up and get cozy with your canine companion. But you can’t forget the dangers winter poses for your furry friend. By taking proactive measures, you can ensure your dog’s comfort and safety. Well, the practical measures discussed above will help you do just that and ensure you and your pet can enjoy the winters to the fullest.