Do BIG dogs need some kind of supplements when they get old?

Question

I was wondering if my almost 4 yr old Newfoundland, Saint Bernard mix, Pepper, needs some kind supplement or help for her joints or hips as she gets older. She is VERY active for a BIG dog. She weighs about 120 lbs. She is in perfect condition and has no problems yet. Her parents didn't have problems as far as I know. But I know that most dogs get artheritis as they age especially large breeds and some get hip problems. Pep is almost a senior by extra-large dog standards (Newfies life span is 6 -8 years) and I love her and just want to be comfortable when she get to her golden years. Any advice will help! Thanks!

Answer 1

Find a good affordable dog food that is made for the large breeds= seniors.

H.O.T. Dog
Handler Owner Trainer of GSD's

Answer 2

I've done alot of research on supplements for dogs since I had 3 old ones. One shepard/chow mix just died at 13 yrs old, the others are 10 and 7. My 10 yr old is a lab/boxer mix, 95 lbs. and the 7 yr old is a Malamute, 110 lbs. In my research I discovered that the combination of ALL 3 (chrondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, and MSM) should be together for optimal joint support. I couldn't find one for dogs with all 3, so I give them one meant for people (since they weigh as much as a person). I also give a fish oil pill and multi-vitamin. My oldest dog that died had cancer and I did alot of research for her. I read from a holistic vet that older dogs should get 4 things:
1) vitamin/mineral supplement
2) Omega-3 (this is the fish oil capsule)
3) Anti-oxidants
4) Digestive enzymes

I give my dogs yogurt once or twice a week for the enzymes. I haven't found anything for the anti-oxidants except blueberries, which I give on a rare occasion, but the holistic food I feed has blueberries in it.

Enjoy your sweet girl. I sure miss mine.

Answer 3

Any nutritionist will tell you that you are better off getting your nutrition naturally than from pills! The biggest problem with supplements is that there is no way of knowing what your dog actually needs and how much of it. The best way to provide essential nutrients is to feed them naturally. A diet of raw meat, edible bone and offal provides everything your dog needs to be healthy into old age and is more accessible and digestible for the dog.

The best and most accessible source of glucosamine (often recommended for older dogs) is natural raw cartilage - pig trotters, chicken backs, breasts and even feet are all great.

Answer 4

I have Rotties' and German Shepards and I give my dogs glucosamine pills. They are just like a vitamin and works great. The do come in lots of forms, liquid, pills, powder. You can find them at any petstore. And for a Newfoundland it will only help if you start giving her these pills. For as they get older there joints get weaker.

Answer 5

Glucosamine-chondroitin is reputed to promote joint health, and there is some evidence that it is useful in some forms of arthritis. Some foods contain that, and they generally advertise it as being healthful for joints. You can buy it in pet stores, but I suspect that if you read the labels, it's probably about the same as what is sold for humans, except possibly the dose.

Answer 6

Mine are on Glucosamine Sulphate for their joints. They get 1 tablet of 1000mgs a day, same dose as I take. That's what my Vet told me to give them, and its done them the world of good, my eldest lass is enjoying her walks again and dashing about all over the place, like she used to.
I find its a lot cheaper in my local Health Store than in the Pet shops.

Answer 7

You can start her on some natural joint supplements, they have some good ones in the Drs Foster & Smith catalog. I would talk to your vet about it first, though. If she is doing good now, you might want to hold off until she starts showing signs.

Answer 8

Glucosamine supplements are what you would be looking for. Keeps the joints healthy. Talk to your vet about a recommendation, it doesn't hurt to give it to them!

Answer 9

I have a Great Pyrenees who is 12. She has had a knee ligament surgery and she limps from arthritis. I give her fish oil. I give all my four dogs fish oil, two capsules once a day, except my JRT who gets one. I also give her glucosamine/chondroitin/MSM for people. I buy capsules and open one on her food. I give my two older dogs a bit of turmeric on their food, too. It is good for lots of things, arthritis and tumor prevention.

Answer 10

Try a glucosomine supplement. I understand that the liquid is better than the tablets or powder.
I use this supplement for my dogs.