what is the best joint medicine for my dog?

Question

I have a 14 yr old Akita, she has been having problems walking up the stairs lately. she used to be on K-9 liquid health for dogs and now shes on syn-flex, which is for humans and animals.
What do you suggest? Is there anymore i can do? I also have a 4 yrs old rottie/shepard on the same medicine and he does just fine. He has hip problems.
Thanks.

Answer 1

We give our old boxer Ascriptin (vet recommended) for pain.

Answer 2

Besides what the vet says, also look at what food they are eating. Many times senior foods have GLucosomine (spelling?) and this will also help lubricate joints. short 10 minute walks help keep their joints loose. I have a 12 yr. old golden. Hope this helps. Oh and also they have a harness with a handle on it that you hold as they walk up the stairs to help take some of the weight off.

Answer 3

We give our 13 yr old chow mix enteric (coated) aspirin & changed her food to Science Diet J/D. It's made special for dogs with joint problems. It's done wonders for her. She now goes up & down the steps, joins us on our 3 mile walks & plays with the neighbor's dog. I didn't have this good of results with the prescriptions. It's worth trying.

Answer 4

My 13 year old Golden gets acupuncture for her arthritis and hip dysplasia. I don't know if that's an option for your dog, but it works wonders for mine. I also use Boswella, Glucosamine, and fish oil. I was told that when giving vitamin E, the benefits of fish oil are increased. I believe Devils Claw is supposed to work as an anti inflamatory, as does garlic. If there's pain, curcumin or turmeric is supposed to help also.

Answer 5

I would see your vet. If he's having trouble going up stairs, that sounds like he may be having some pain in his spine. It might be that some anti-inflammatories would help the situation.