Choosing the Best Joint Supplement for a Labrador

According to a recent study carried out by VetCompass™, osteoarthritis in Labrador retrievers is “one of the biggest problems facing dogs today”. And that’s not all. Over 11% of Labradors affected by this debilitating, painful condition face a shorter lifespan because of it. 

Labradors are prone to joint conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation, which often lead to chronic arthritis in the hip, elbow, and knee joints. Although we more usually associate arthritis with older dogs, the condition can strike at any age, so preventative treatment such as feeding a high-quality joint supplement is crucial. 

So, could feeding a good-quality joint supplement prevent your beloved Lab from developing painful, crippling arthritis that could shorten his life? And could that same joint supplement improve your dog’s overall health too? 

Here are six essential things you need to know to make sure you choose the right joint supplement for your Labrador.

Labradors can be prone to skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is a common allergic skin disease that affects over 10% of Labs at some point during their lifetime. The condition causes intense itching, potentially leading to skin damage and infection as a result of the dog scratching or rubbing. 

Supplements that contain salmon oil are very beneficial for Labradors who suffer from atopic dermatitis. The Omega-3 contained in the natural fish oil helps to keep skin hydrated and supple, preventing and relieving itchiness. 

Within a few weeks of introducing salmon oil to your Lab’s diet, you will notice how much shinier and softer his coat is. And his joints will be suppler too – it’s a win-win! 

Labradors are predisposed to certain forms of cancer, including mast cell skin tumors. Particular Paws joint supplements contain a naturally occurring anti-oxidant called Boswellia serrata, more commonly known as Indian frankincense oil. Boswellia serrata has potent anti-inflammatory properties to ease joint pain and is also medically recognized as a cancer preventative.

Many cheaper joint supplements contain only negligible amounts of active ingredients. In fact, most of the product is bulked out with fillers that have no nutritional benefits for your pet! 

Be sure to read the ingredients list on the product packaging carefully. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the amount of the active ingredient contained in the product, the nearer the top of the contents list it will appear. 

It is much better for your Labrador in the long-run to invest more money in a top-quality supplement that will improve your dog’s health than waste your cash on cheap products that are of no benefit to your pet.

Labradors have the reputation as the walking waste disposal units of the canine world! Unfortunately, this habit of gobbling up anything and everything that comes their way can lead to tummy upsets. 

Sometimes, feeding your Lab a supplement that contains synthetic ingredients can exacerbate gastric problems. To be sure that your Labrador’s digestive system remains on an even keel, choose a supplement that contains only natural ingredients. 

High-quality joint supplements such as those made by Particular Paws are formulated to include pro-biotics such as protease and bacillus coagulans. Pro-biotics help to promote a healthy and settled digestive system – perfect for “eat anything” Labradors!

• To keep your Labrador’s joints supple and healthy, feed him a high-quality, USA-made combination joint supplement from his first birthday and for the whole of his life.
• Look for a supplement that contains fish oil to help prevent atopic dermatitis and antioxidants to keep cancer at bay.
• Choose a supplement that contains only natural ingredients and probiotics to soothe a greedy Lab’s tummy.
• Prolong your Labrador’s active life by keeping him fit and at the correct weight.

If your Labrador is showing signs of arthritis or other joint problems, always consult your veterinarian for expert advice and guidance.