The 5 Benefits of CBD for Dog Joint Pain 

Let's Explore Alternative Dog Arthritis Supplements 

By: Tess Marty & Rianna Young 

Our dogs bring boundless joy and companionship to our lives. From running and jumping to playing and pawing — your dog’s hips and joints are one of the most used parts of their body. A common area of concern for many pet parents as they age. 

Whether you have a big, small, young or senior dog, understanding how to promote strong and healthy joints is essential for ensuring their quality of life and long-term comfort. In this article, we'll explore the signs of arthritis, effective ways to alleviate joint pain, and expert tips to improve your dog’s mobility to improve their quality of life. 

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Signs of Joint Pain Dogs
• Causes of Joint Pain in Dogs
• Why Do Dogs Develop Joint Pain
• Hip Dysplasia vs Arthritis
• Over the Counter Joint Supplements 
• At Home Modifications 

The Signs of Joint Pain in Dogs

Is going up stairs or taking long walks getting harder for your dog? They may be experiencing arthritis. Recognizing the signs of arthritis can help you provide support for your pet early on, which can help make them more comfortable while aging or can slow the severity. 

Common symptoms of Dog Joint Pain:

• Limping 
• Stiffness
• Difficulty rising or Lying down
• Reluctance to Climb Stairs or Jump
• Noticeable Decrease in Activity Level

You may also observe swelling, warmth, or tenderness around the affected joints. Some vets will check for a clicking sound when bending the joints. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What's Causing Your Dog's Joint Pain? 

When your dog starts limping or avoiding activity, the first thing you should do is consult a veterinarian to determine the cause. Always speak with a medical professional when it comes to diagnosis to get a professional opinion, as it could be an injury from overuse or something more chronic

Hip Dysplasia vs Arthritis: What's the Difference?

Hip dysplasia and arthritis are both common joint conditions in dogs, but they have different causes. Hip dysplasia is a developmental disorder from abnormal hip joint formation, which leads to instability and degeneration over time. This degeneration can cause a breakdown in their ability to walk, run, play, and live a full life. 

Arthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative joint disease resulting from wear and tear on the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. While hip dysplasia mainly affects larger breeds like shepherds and labs, arthritis can occur in dogs of all sizes and ages.

When and Why Do Pets Develop Arthritis?

While arthritis is more commonly associated with older dogs, it can develop at any age, including in puppies. Most dogs are considered “senior” at age 7. Older dogs and larger breeds are prone to developing arthritis due to anything from genetics, to weight, to joint structure.

Small dogs, however, are not immune to arthritis, and are often overlooked or dismissed due to their size and weight. Making sure to monitor your dog's joint health throughout their life will help you to take proactive measures to support their mobility and comfort. 

How can I help my dog with joint pain?

Unfortunately, there is no “cure” for arthritis, but there are ways to slow degeneration and to help improve cartilage strength. In addition to veterinary care, there are plenty of natural remedies that can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation in dogs. 

There are quite a few strategies you can implement to help alleviate your dog's joint pain and improve their overall comfort. Regular exercise, tailored to your dog's age and physical condition, can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility. 

Over the Counter Joint Supplements for Dogs

Pet Pain Relief Without A Prescription

Can CBD Help Dog Joint Pain?

Cannabidiol (CBD) provides pets with a variety of benefits for ailing or aching hips and joints. The most important ways it can improve your dog's quality of life are:

1. Reducing Inflammation

2. Improving Mobility 

3. Calming Anxiety

4. Relaxing Muscles

5. Relieving Feelings of Pain 

How To Use CBD For Arthritis in Dogs

Navigating the world of pet supplements can be overwhelming. With so many on the market, it can be hard to determine which to give and combine.  Hemp has been making a statement with older dogs and dogs with hip and joint inflammation. 

The Calm + Joint CBD dog treats provide comprehensive support for your dog's joint health in easy to use soft-chew perfect for senior or those who need help chewing. While glucosamine helps repair and maintain cartilage, CBD targets inflammation, which causes the pain that eats at the tendon causing degeneration of the tendons that holds their hips and joints in place. 

Reducing inflammation, even with overall degeneration, can help your pet live more comfortably, making it less painful to move around. Movement and weight management are so important for aging dogs, and CBD can help your dog with that additional energy offering a comprehensive approach to managing joint issues.

Hemp has been making a statement with older dogs and dogs with hip and joint inflammation. Cannabidiol (CBD) has potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. CBD can also be used in conjunction with popular joint supplements without problem.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin 

Navigating the world of pet supplements can be overwhelming. With so many on the market, it can be hard to determine which to give and combine.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin widely recognized supplements known for their joint-supporting properties. They help to maintain and repair cartilage while promoting joint lubrication, reducing friction and discomfort. By increasing water retention in cartilage, they can help absorb shock from high impact activities. 

Glucosamine and chondroitin don’t need a prescription, but given at too high a dose can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, or excessive thirst, so make sure you follow directions. 

CBD + Glucosamine: The Best Joint Supplements for Dogs

When paired with glucosamine or other supplements, hemp-based CBD can provide comprehensive support for your dog's joint health. While glucosamine helps repair and maintain cartilage, CBD targets inflammation and slows the breakdown of muscle that results from inflamed joints to provide natural pain relief for your dog or cat. Pairing these two together can be incredibly beneficial to your dog’s joint health.

CBD given daily, and continued consistently can slow hip and joint degeneration.

Reducing inflammation, even with overall degeneration, can help your pet live more comfortably, making it less painful to move around. Movement and weight management are so important for aging dogs, and CBD can help your dog with that additional energy offering a comprehensive approach to managing joint issues.

Turmeric & Fish Oils 

Turmeric is a plant in the same family as ginger. This spice has some surprising benefits to your dog’s hip and joint health, which is why it’s an ingredient we at Happy Hounds CBD make sure to include in our products. A study in 2008 showed turmeric to be an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in dogs, and can even fight cancer growth. 

Happy Hounds Calm + Coat Drops incorporate Turmeric, Salmon Oil, and Full-Spectrum Hemp to reduce calm inflammation and improve mobility for your pets. 

Salmon & Other Fish Oils for Dog Mobility

Adding omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil to your dog's diet can also help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Using fish oils like salmon oil can help your dog bear weight on creaky joints as well as improving muscle strength. Our Calm + Coat formula includes salmon oil along with the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD to provide a multi-beneficial supplement to your aging dog’s diet. 

Alternatives to Joint Supplements 

Exercise & Mobility Work 

Low-impact activities like swimming or gentle walks are ideal for dogs with joint issues. Movement is the most important part of maintaining joint health, so keep them walking! Keeping your dog’s body condition in check is incredibly important. Overweight dogs are significantly more likely to have joint issues from the added strain to their limbs. Check with your vet to see what your dog’s ideal body score is and work towards making their lives more comfortable at their own pace. 

Home Modifications

Along with this, providing your dog with a soft and supportive bed can relieve pressure on their joints while they rest. Many companies make orthopedic beds for dogs, which cushions joints and bones from physical stress.

For smaller dogs, it may help to get a ramp or steps for couches and beds to lessen the shock from jumping. You can also buy non-slip rugs or mats to put down on hardwood floors to prevent straining from slipping. 

Massage 

Massaging your dog is another way to help with arthritic discomfort as they age. It can help increase blood flow to the area to reduce inflammation, and can also help in cooperative care for desensitizing them to touching sensitive areas, which can be incredibly helpful at the vet.

Massaging can reduce stress and help them to sleep more comfortably. Not to mention the bonding time it gives you with your pet! 

Dog Joint Supplements

Supplements are gaining popularity in pet parents with aging dogs or for pets who may be prone to arthritis or hip dysplasia. The good part about supplements is that they are generally safe to use with any dog given proper dosage and don’t need a prescription from a vet. Popular supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, CBD, Fish Oils and Turmeric. 

Turmeric

Turmeric is a plant in the same family as ginger. This spice has some surprising benefits to your dog’s hip and joint health, which is why it’s an ingredient we at Happy Hounds CBD make sure to include in our products. A study in 2008 showed turmeric to be an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in dogs, and can even fight cancer growth. 

Fish Oils

Adding omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil to your dog's diet can also help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Using fish oils like salmon oil can help your dog bear weight on creaky joints as well as improving muscle strength. Our Calm + Coat formula includes salmon oil along with the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD to provide a multi-beneficial supplement to your aging dog’s diet. 

Stay Vigilant (Signs & Signals)

Prioritizing your dog's hip and joint health early and actively is a major factor in their long-term comfort, mobility, and quality of life. By recognizing the signs of arthritis and hip dysplasia, implementing preventive measures, and exploring effective treatment options such as supplements and natural remedies, you can help your dog live a happier and healthier life.

Developing a personalized plan that addresses your dog's unique needs and promotes long-term joint health and well-being is key. With proper care and attention, you can provide your pup with the support they need to thrive for years to come.