Joint Support: Not Just For Big Dogs

By Karin Krisher

In the veterinary medicine industry (and amongst dog owners the world over), it’s common knowledge that hip and joint concerns are number one priority. All dogs experience physical changes as they age that can lead to general deterioration.

But some breeds are seriously predisposed to joint issues. For those breeds, Vetri-Science® has created advanced joint support supplement formulas to support comfort, hydration and function.

Predisposed Breeds: What Makes It So?

Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t just large dog breeds that are prone to experiencing joint issues. Still, large breed dogs are those most notably at risk due to weight bearing on their joints, increased exercise needs and genetic susceptibility.

The most common breeds predisposed to joint concerns include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers and German Shepherds. Most often, these types of dogs experience hip concerns, rather than knee, whereas some smaller breed dogs are more likely to experience issues with knees, such as cap dislocation. (Big dogs experience kneecap dislocation, too, but usually as a result of a pre-existing hip issue.)

A variety of tiny dogs are considered predisposed simply because of the height of their patella ridge. If it isn’t deep enough for the kneecap to rest comfortably, it’s likely that the kneecap may pop to the inside, causing discomfort and issues with mobility. This action is common among:

Miniature/toy Poodles

Terriers (Boston and Jack Russell)

Pomeranians

Yorkies

Papillions

Maltese

Chihuahuas

Pekingese

Joint Supplements For Dogs

There is nothing supplements can do to change the position of a German Shepherd’s hip or his majestic gait. There is nothing supplements can do to alter the height of a Boston Terrier’s patella ridge. But Vetri-Science® supplements can support general connective tissue health and support comfort, thereby supporting general mobility and quality of life.

Glyco-Flex® III, which is recommended for geriatric dogs, working dogs, dogs with a maximum need for support and as a follow-up to orthopedic surgery, is a perfect example of how supplements can support a better quality of life, making the term “predisposed” less confining. Glyco-Flex® III (available in chewable tablets or bite-sized chews) contains higher levels of quality ingredients to provide serious joint support.

A combination of glucosamine, MSM, GlycOmega™ brand Perna canaliculus, N,N-Dimethylglycine, manganese, vitamin C, grape seed extract, vitamin E and l-glutathione, Glyco-Flex® III truly has it all. It supports mobility, joint hydration and of course, overall comfort.

Do you and your veterinarian talk about your dog’s need for joint support? What types of conversations have you had? Tell us about your pup on our Facebook page, and be sure to check out Vetri-Science®’s other unique joint support supplements.