|
I can recommend that both fish oil (not to be confused with broader omega 3s) and joint supplements are highly beneficial.
I believe that every large breed dog should be on these and need all the joint support they can get.
First, keep in mind that dogs do not "develop" dysplasia....this is genetic but certainly diet and exercise impact how it is expressed (and how severely). If your dog is dysplastic however, he was born with this.
Glucosamine is highly beneficial to retaining joint cartiledge, so the earlier you start it the better. Chondroitin with this has been shown to help even more.
With this you will want to also provide a joint "lubricant" - Glucosamine retains cartiledge but does not provide added synovial fluid or joint lubrication. Good lubricants are hyaluronic acid and celadrin (Natural Factors makes a good celadrin).
With fish oils, focus on the level of DHA and EPA - these are what matters as an anti-inflammatory, as well as cancer preventative. A 100 lb Berner should get 1500 mg of DHA per day and even more EPA and puppies can be started on it after 8 weeks of age. Always be sure it is a wild deep water fish source, and pharmaceutical quality to ensure purity and no heavy metals (Natural Factors and Carlson are good brands)
Always stop fish oil supplementation before any surgical procedure requiring anesthesia - it is blood thinning and a good precaution.
|