Foods for Arthritic Dogs

At first, the signs are subtle. The dog has trouble getting up from a prone position. Long walks take a lot out of him, and he's limping the next day. Climbing stairs or into the car become problematic. Arthritis takes its toll on man and his best friend. While there are many veterinary medications and over the counter supplements to help combat the disease, special dog foods to treat the condition can help put the spring back in Fido's step.

Hill's Science Diet JD Canine

Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Canine claims that dogs will walk, run and jump within three weeks of continuously eating the dog food. The j/d in the name indicates joint diet. It contains Omega-3 fatty acids to aid cartilage, along with the amino acid L-carnitine to maintain good weight and avoid joint stress. While proper weight management is important for all dogs, it is especially true for dogs with arthritis. Extra pounds means additional stress on joints. If fed in the recommended amounts, this food should keep dogs both spry and sleek, not pudgy.

Purina JM

According to Purina's website, "Osteoarthritis (OA) has been estimated to affect as much as 20 percent of dogs older than one year." The disease is caused by cartilage breakdown in the joints. In 2004, the company's Purina Veterinary Diets introduced the JM, for joint mobility, brand of dog food. The website states that JM contains high levels of Omega-3 long-chain fatty acids, anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C and E, natural glucosamine, with a high ratio of protein to calories. These ingredients reputedly aid in helping restore joint mobility. The food is only sold by veterinarians, for dogs under veterinary supervision.

Flint River Ranch

Flint River Ranch Senior Plus Dog Food uses a patented process and is naturally formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to aid in joint cartilage maintenance. These ingredients can help lubricate joints, provides an anti-inflammatory effects on joints, regulates cartilage activity, and inhibits the enzymes that break down cartilage. All dog food is human grade with no by-products or chemical preservatives. The company alleges that it not only helps dogs with arthritis, but feeding its products can prevent arthritis from occurring. The food contains no fillers, so less can be fed.