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Best Dog Foods for a Pit Bull with Arthritis or Joint Pain
My girl is a little over 10 yrs now and has had Ligaments in both back knees torn… they’ve healed, but she was having a lot of trouble moving around… I switched to this dog food (Blue Buffalo Jolly Joints) a month ago, and I already see a big improvement in her movements! Good Luck! also I wouldn’t keep my dog on pain meds all the time, it’s not good for them! Hard on their organs
Author: Candida David D.
Likes: 16
I cooked for my pittie, boiled a whole chicken, deboned, cut up, and mixed with organic broccoli, carrots, a whole head of chopped parsley, and organic brown rice. Divide into portions (should last about a week), top with a dollop of pumpkin and 2 mls of CBD oil. Feed this twice a day. This made her so healthy, and with all. It was amazing, the difference
Author: Nancy S.
Likes: 11
I give my Pitt fish oil and glucosamine daily. He will be 13 years old in Aug and 100lbs
Author: Sherry Lee H.
Likes: 40
I give my dog Cosequin capsules. It has helped a lot. CBD drops for pain. It has helped a lot. I gave my previous dog pain meds from the doctor, and it ruined her kidneys. She was in diapers the last year of her life.
Author: Kathleen P.
Likes: 13
Homemade boiled chicken, scrambled eggs, white rice, oatmeal, cooked meat (lean steak), vitamins, salmon, NO FOOD COLOR, SEASONINGS. OR ADDED GREASE!… NUTRO IS GREAT! SENSITIVE STOMACH FORMULAS…AVOID CHEMICAL MEDICATIONS, NATURAL ONLY!
Author: JC T.
Likes: 8
There is a supplement called Glyco-flex, which really helps with arthritis. You can ask your vet about it, and you can buy it on Amazon. When you first start on it, your dog will take so many in the first week or two, then down to a few or less a day, and it goes by the weight of your dog!! I just got a puppy myself, and when it’s time, I will put her on it. I highly recommend it!
Author: Tammy H.
Likes: 3
I use a prescription joint diet for mine, so I don’t have to give a joint supplement, Purina Pro Plan JM (joint mobility). Both Hill’s and Royal Canin also make similar prescription diets specifically for this. Glucosamine and other supplements can only do so much, so any dog with severe arthritis should be getting prescription pain meds from their vet to keep them comfortable.
Author: Megan E.
Likes: 4
Diamond Naturals, or grain-free, especially corn-free. Mine had issues. Also, Glucosamine with Chondroitin. I just dropped the tab in my dog’s bowl, and he ate it right up. There is also a herbal blend I got from my vet, but it was really expensive. Google Herbs for dogs. I bought them separately, blended them myself, and sprinkled them on his food. Good luck.
Author: Nancy N.
Likes: 0
I would give her the conjointing and glucosamine start now, everyone should before the dogs get older. My Smokey has arthritis, and I’ve learned from him that he actually gets 2 cortisone shots a year. He can do much better when he gets he is 10 years old and hopefully has a lot more years. My dog dutchie just passed away last year, 18 years old, but no bone problems. I don’t give my dogs dog food anymore I give them ground turkey, ground chicken chicken drumsticks or turkey drumsticks of course not the bone brown rice, and Saturday and Sunday they have cheese eggs no more dog food they’re much happier and very very spoiled, and in the long run it cost less money to feed them now with the price of dog food at least they eat it and I don’t throw it in the garbage as I do with dog food.
Author: Susan B.
Likes: 0
We feed our Blue Buffalo dry and wet, plus she does a omega 3 everyday shows a big difference in her
Author: Stephanie Lynn K.
Likes: 3
My pitty eats Purina One Vibrant Maturity and takes Cosequin, gabapentin, and carprovet every day, and she has chronic arthritis.
Author: Jessie L.
Likes: 2
I use American Journey (he’s also SUPER picky). I give him Cosequin every day and bought him an orthopedic bed. (Game changer!) He has pain meds that are okay to take daily but we try not to give them to him so he doesn’t rely on them on his good days.
Author: Brittany O.
Likes: 1
The vet recommends Purina Pro Plan. I started to use it. It was expensive. I switched mine to Blue Wilderness for seniors.
Author: Staci B.
Likes: 2
Just food for dogs. Make your own DIY.
Author: Kelsey B.
Likes: 2
We use pedigree can food mixed with chicken noodle soup since he is 14 years old and his teeth bout gone, and for joints we give him Cosequin
Author: Chad T.
Likes: 2
Mine is 12. Vet still has her on Purina One Chicken and rice. She is on gabapentin and anti-inflammatories
Author: Janet Simpson S.
Likes: 2
I boil a chicken with white rice, carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, and fish oil sauce. This is what my dog’s vet doctor recommended it what he does for his own dogs. It’s made a big difference in his getting around. He’s running around like a puppy again and kicking up his heels. He’s playing again. And Oliver is 18 years old.
Author: Gidget B.
Likes: 2
Home-cooked, if possible, I know it can be expensive. All the additives in store bought can trigger and worsen different health issues for our fur babies. Think about what animals ate before store-bought products were made. Raw and fresh foods. Also, if you like water, consider going swimming or letting yourself soak in a warm bath. Warm water eases pain, and swimming takes the weight off the joints and allows for easier movement to help loosen up tightness. Love and prayers for your fur baby’s comfort
Author: Robin C.
Likes: 1
I swear by solid gold. I’ve only used the cat formulas cuz I only have cats, but I believe their quality and mission are the best on the market! They have a ton of different formulas for different things. Plus, they have a ton of different bone broths, mixers, and supplements for overall health and wellbeing. I also highly recommend Cosequin supplement for aging and arthritic joints. I know I said I only own cats, but I have been working with dogs for the better part of the last decade and formerly worked in pet nutrition. Hope you find something that helps your sweet pibble baby. They’re my absolute favorite breed.
Author: Lyndsay M.
Likes: 2
Been feeding mine Victor Performance to all 3 of mine. Has helped my older 12-year-old. She has been moving better and has also helped my other one, who has skin issues. She scars till she loses her fur, and she is clearing up.
Author: Elizabeth F.
Likes: 2
Purina Pro Plan with joint support. Also, please get it some Synovi G4. It’s a chewable glucosamine that has worked wonders on my almost 10-year-old Great Dane. You can get it from your vet, Amazon, or Chewy.
Author: Carol C C.
Likes: 0
Purina joint mobility Rx and see if you can get your baby on some a Galliprant Rx, my pibble is on the same thing. She’s 10 years old with 1 TPLO and an arthritic hip and knee.
Author: Amina S B.
Likes: 1
Chewy has a really good supplement powder I use for my pittie mix. It’s called The Missing Link. I get the senior one. He is 12 and has issues from his double CCL repair 7 years ago, along with Cosequin, and it helps a lot. As for food, we feed Victor’s brand.
Author: Lisa K.
Likes: 1
For a supplement, Dasuquin might help. It is for hip & joints and contains glucosamine, chondroitin & MSM. Ask your vet about it. However, you shouldn’t give your dog a joint supplement with a pain reliever, e.g., aspirin, before consulting with your vet. For food, look for something that includes ingredients like blueberries, pumpkin, sweet potato, turmeric, ginger root, fatty fish, or fish oil. These help to reduce joint swelling & inflammation. Or you can simply add any of those ingredients to your fur baby’s existing food instead of changing to something different, but always consult your vet for his/her input.
Author: Carole D.
Likes: 1
Definitely fresh pet or homemade. Also, salmon oil will help.
Author: Mary Young-G.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About Foods for Pit Bulls with Arthritis
1. What is the best food for a Pit Bull with arthritis?
The best food is one that supports joint health and reduces inflammation, often including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and high-quality protein. Some owners also choose joint-support or prescription diets.
2. Can diet help improve arthritis in dogs?
Yes, a proper diet can help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and improve mobility. Ingredients like fish oil and glucosamine are commonly recommended.
3. Are supplements necessary for dogs with arthritis?
Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s are often used to support joint health and may help reduce discomfort over time.
4. Is homemade food good for a Pit Bull with joint pain?
Homemade food can be beneficial if properly balanced, as it allows you to include fresh, anti-inflammatory ingredients that support joint health.
5. What ingredients help reduce inflammation in dogs?
Ingredients like fish oil, turmeric, blueberries, and sweet potatoes may help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.
6. Should I use prescription dog food for arthritis?
Prescription diets designed for joint health can be very effective, especially for dogs with more advanced arthritis, and should be considered with veterinary guidance.
7. Can weight management help with arthritis?
Yes, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as excess weight puts additional strain on joints and can worsen arthritis symptoms.
8. How often should I feed a dog with arthritis?
Feeding a consistent, balanced diet in appropriate portions helps maintain weight and supports overall health, which is important for managing arthritis.
9. Should I avoid certain foods for a dog with arthritis?
Foods high in unhealthy fats, fillers, and artificial additives should be avoided, as they may contribute to inflammation.
10. When should I take my dog to the vet for arthritis?
If your dog shows signs of stiffness, limping, difficulty moving, or pain, it’s important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
11. Can exercise and diet work together to help arthritis?
Yes, combining a healthy diet with low-impact exercise like walking or swimming can help improve mobility and reduce joint stiffness.
Helping Your Pit Bull Stay Active and Comfortable
Managing arthritis in pit bulls requires a holistic approach that emphasizes a well-balanced, anti-inflammatory diet. Integrating ingredients rich in fish oil for dogs, antioxidants, and natural supplements like glucosamine for dogs and chondroitin can significantly improve joint health and mobility. Consult with a veterinarian to personalize your pit bull’s dietary plan, accounting for breed, size, and specific health requirements. By incorporating these food recommendations and maintaining a healthy weight, you will not only alleviate your dog’s arthritis symptoms but also boost their overall well-being, ensuring a happier, more comfortable life for your pit bull.
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