Senior Dogs and Joint Health: Easy Homemade Treats to keep them Active

Is there a way to make tasty DIY treats that may help Your dog's joint health?

 

 

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You'd be amazed at how simple food items like organic coconut oil or turmeric spice may benefit your senior dog's mobility and overall joint health. 

 

As our dogs age so do their joints. This can impact their mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, there are ways to support their joint health and keep them regularly active. 

 

 One of the ways to do this is through their diet.

 

How do Dogs Age? 

According to WebMD's article: https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/how-to-calculate-your-dogs-age the first year of your dog's life is equal to 15 human years.

 

"Yep, you read that right."

 

 

Size and breed also play a role. Smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs.

 

 

 You can find a dog's age chart by clicking the link above. 

 

The Nutritional Side of an Aging Dog

 

"Aw, what a fun day!"  You've prepared for this day. You bring your new young puppy home. He's got that puppy breath we all know and love. He's full of energy and has plenty of licks and kisses to offer you.

 

 (Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

 

You went out a few days earlier, to buy a high-calorie, vitamin-packed bag of puppy food to give him a nutritionally good start in life. 

 

 

Eventually, your dog's dietary needs do change as they grow.

 

 

 

The dog food he ate as a puppy may need to change as he transitions into an Adult dog.

 

 

 

And then again, as a senior dog.

 

 

 

 

You wouldn't give a puppy food that was made for a 12-year-old dog. And you wouldn't give a senior dog puppy food. 

 

 

They have specific needs based on their age and size. 

 

 

Why Does Joint Health Matter?

 

The health of your senior dog's joints directly affects their mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.

 

Arthritis, hip dysplasia and just trying to keep up with daily mobility, when their joints feel painful can affect your old dog's quality of life. 

 

Signs of Joint Problems. What to look for?

 

• Limping and Lameness: This includes noticeable changes in the way your beloved dog walks
• Difficulty moving. You notice that your older dog is having difficulty getting up the stairs, struggling to get up from a lying down position. He cannot jump like he used to.
• Changes in their behavior: Let's face it, we all get a little grumpy when we are in pain. This could mean, increased irritability or discomfort when being touched.

 

 Key Ingredients for Joint-Healthy Dog Treats 

 

Let's look at what goes into these holistic treats and their benefits. 

 

1. Turmeric - Not only a spice that has been around for centuries. But a powerful anti-inflammatory thanks to a compound found in the spice, curcumin. It aids in reducing inflammation and helps with joint pain.
2. Coconut Oil - Coconut oil tastes good and is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may have anti-inflammatory benefits. 
3. Bone Broth - Ah, so warm and soothing. It's not just for sipping on those cold winter days. Bone Broth is packed with glucosamine, chondroitin, and gelatin. It aids in joint repair and maintenance.
4. Flaxseed - Flaxseed may help reduce inflammation in joints. High in Omega-3 fatty acids it is a beneficial ingredient in any recipe. 
5. Cinnamon - Not only does cinnamon taste and smell delicious, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties known to aid in joint health. 
6. Optional: CBD Oil: Follow dosage instructions based on your dog's size. 

 

Easy Homemade Dog Treats for Joint Health 

 

There's nothing better than making homemade tasty dog treats at home. First, you know the ingredients. And secondly, you have more control over what goes into every bite. 

 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Pumpkin Puree
• 1/4 cup of Coconut Oil
• 1 tsp of Turmeric
• 1/4 tsp of Black Pepper ( aids in the absorption of Turmeric)
• 1/2 cup of ground Flax seed
• 1/2 cup of Bone Broth
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon 
• 1 1/2 cups of Oat flour
• 1 large egg

 

 

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl mix pumpkin, coconut oil, bone broth, and egg. Mix well until smooth.

Gradually add the dry ingredients -turmeric, black pepper, flax seed, cinnamon, and oat flour.

On a floured surface roll out dough to 1/4" thickness. You can use a cookie cutter to cut out dough or cut it into circles or squares.

 Bake: Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly golden.

Allow your treats to cool completely before giving one to your dog. 

 

You can store these in a refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Or you can freeze them for a longer shelf life and give them as needed. 

 

Another great benefit is administering CBD oil and treats for optimal benefits. See bottle for proper dosage. As always, consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns. 

 

NOTE: As with any food, sensory, or toy product, it's advised to consult with your veterinarian before starting a new diet or snack implementation for your pet.  Some pets may have pre-existing health challenges. Check out our full disclaimer here.

 

If you have an elderly dog or a large breed dog, it is important to take care of their joint health. This is crucial for their happiness and mobility. Incorporating these easy DIY homemade dog treats for joint health will help give your dog a better quality of life. 

 

 

Have you tried this easy recipe? Let me know in the comments. Love to hear from you.