Osteoarthritis in overweight dogs

Osteoarthritis in dogs is aggravated by obesity because it increases the amount of compression acting on the cartilage. Unfortunately, obesity is also more prevalent in senior dogs, further compounding the problem.

When given a suitable weight-loss diet, overweight dogs show an immediate improvement. However, you can go further by supplementing a weight-loss diet with ingredients that protects the dog’s joint health.

Improving osteoarthritis in overweight dogs through diet:

The Articular Reduced Calorie diet is indicated as nutritional support in overweight dogs with diseases that cause joint pain and inflammation. It is also indicated to boost joint health after trauma or surgery and even to prevent osteoarthritis in susceptible dogs.

But it is not recommended in pregnant or lactating females, or puppies.

The Articular Reduced Calorie diet for dogs with osteoarthritis

Its main ingredients are:

• Hyaluronic acid: improves the viscoelasticity and lubricating effect of the synovial fluid to prevent the onset of synovitis and thus reduce joint pain.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate: stimulate cartilage metabolism. They also inhibit cartilage degradation and calcification, so it can continue to act as a support and absorb the compressive forces.
• Vitamin K₂: reduces bone loss and therefore the risk of fractures and the incidence of osteoarthritis. Improves bone mineralisation and prevents cartilage calcification.
• Omega-3 essential fatty acids: reduce the pain due to inflammation and protect the cartilage from degradation.
• Low-calorie and moderate-fat content: Stimulates weight loss, reducing stress and pain due to mechanical actions. Fats increase palatability.
• High-protein and high-fibre content: helps maintain muscle mass by encouraging energy expenditure. Fibre increases the food’s satiating capacity.

Proven performance for osteoarthritis in dogs

The efficacy of the Advance Veterinary Diets Articular Reduced Calorie diet for osteoarthritis in dogs has been confirmed in a study into weight loss in eight overweight dogs with joint problems.

The vet assessed the dogs objectively using the Bioarth scale and based on the weekly reduction in body weight.

The dogs lost weight successfully, which reduced the load on their joints and associated pain, leading to an increased level of physical activity.