Whether you suspect your dog has arthritis or he’s been diagnosed, you want to make sure your best buddy has the most comfortable life possible.

Arthritis in dogs is quite common, so treatment and management is easier than ever before. Here’s some thing you can do to make life easier for your canine companion.

Supplements

Your vet might give you medication to help manage your pup’s pain, but you can help it along with certain supplements. Glucosamine and chondroitin are both effective pain-relievers and joint strengtheners, and are even added to certain brands of joint management dog food. Fish oil, with it’s omega 3 fatty acids, can also help reduce inflammation, and can be added directly to your dog’s dinner.

Weight Management

Overweight dogs with arthritis have more problems moving around, so if your pup is looking a bit pudgy you may want to help him shed some weight. While there are weight management foods on the market, consider moving towards a lower-carbohydrate food…canned food, or even raw meat (the BARF diet).

Activity

While you still want your dog to remain active, you don’t want to overdo it, especially with a larger breed like a Great Dane, or Mastiff of Newfoundland. Take gentle walks, and don’t stay out as long. Keep an eye out for signs that he’s had enough…limping, favoring a limb, or reluctance to keep going.

Lounging

Dogs with arthritis need soft, warm surfaces to lie down on. If you usually keep pup off the carpet, you may want to reconsider as carpets are easier to walk on. Get a nice, soft bed or blanket for him to lounge on. It’s a good idea to keep your dog off your bed and other furniture, as he may find it difficult to get down, and injure himself trying.

Arthritis in dogs can be managed. Most of all, do what you always do…give your best friend lots and lots of love!