Best Dog Foods for Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis

Hip dysplasia and arthritis are common hereditary diseases affecting thousands of dogs a year.  According to the Journal of Veterinary Medicine, more than 15% of dogs were diagnosed with hip dysplasia in 2017.

Because of the large population of dogs that suffer from hip dysplasia and arthritis, the pet industry responded with new products. Dog foods and supplements that help reduce the risk or provide support to dogs with hip dysplasia are now available in pet stores without the need for a prescription.

Below we’ve provided a list of the best dog foods for hip dysplasia and arthritis.  Additionally, we will discuss:

• What hip dysplasia is
• How arthritis plays a role in dogs with hip dysplasia
• Breeds that have a higher predisposition to hip dysplasia
• Causes and Symptoms
• Treatment Options
• Prevention & Maintenance

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is an orthopedic disease often seen in large and giant dog breeds though it can affect smaller dogs, especially pugs.

Hip dysplasia is the result of the ball and socket not fitting together, instead of the joint moving with ease, the two rub and grind against one another. Over time, the ill-fitted hip joint will begin to wear and deteriorate, causing significant pain.

Breeds that are Prone to Arthritis and Hip Dysplasia

There are several breeds predisposed to hip dysplasia. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, the top 10 dog breeds most likely to be affected by hip dysplasia are:

1. Bulldog
2. Pug
3. Olde English Bulldogge
4. Dogue De Bordeaux
5. Neapolitan Mastiff
6. Brussels Griffon
7. St. Benard
8. Otterhound
9. Clumber Spaniel
10. Black Russian Terrier

Causes of Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary disease passed down over generations.  Hip dysplasia can occur even if both of the parents are free of the illness, so there are no guarantees when purchasing a dog. Though, as mentioned before, some breeds are predisposed to hip dysplasia.

The second most common reason for hip dysplasia is when puppies grow too fast. If puppies are not fed the proper foods to control their growth rate, they will develop too quickly, causing a more significant strain on their bodies. When excessive growth occurs, it often results in skeletal diseases such as hip or elbow dysplasia or other orthopedic disorders.

Symptoms of Dog Hip Dysplasia

It is important to note that not all dogs show symptoms of hip dysplasia.  However, most dogs will show signs of discomfort as the joint worsens.  Symptoms can be mild and almost undetectable to obvious pain and discomfort.

Below is a list of common symptoms seen in dogs suffering from hip dysplasia.

• Signs of pain when getting up
• Decrease in activity and mobility
• Limping or favoring hind end
• Narrow stance
• Change in gait – some dog’s hips sway more when walking others tend to hop
• Loss of leg muscle
• Difficulty managing stairs
• Pain and stiffness
• Change in personality, such as being more aloof, hiding, or even in rare cases aggression

Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs

Often as dog’s age, they will develop arthritis, regardless of whether or not they have hip dysplasia.

Symptoms of arthritis in dogs are often displayed similarly to hip dysplasia. However, arthritis can occur in more than just the hip region. Often dogs that have hip dysplasia develop arthritis in the hips and other areas of the body due to overcompensation.

Common symptoms of arthritis in dogs are:

• Pain
• Difficulty standing up
• Prolonged stiffness after resting 
• Limping or lameness
• Discomfort when touched
• Difficulty with climbing stairs or jumping
• Decreased activity and mobility
• The decrease in the ability to play or exercise
• Loss of muscle
• Change in personality, such as being more aloof, hiding, or even in rare cases aggression
• Licking areas that are painful

Canine Treatment Options

There are a few various treatment options available for dogs with hip dysplasia. The severity of the disease, the size of your dog, and the dog’s age are all factors when selecting the best course of action. Your veterinarian will help guide you to the best treatment option.

For more severe cases, the most effective way to control hip dysplasia is through surgery.

Common surgical treatment options include:

• DPO/TPO – This is a surgical option often used for younger dogs less than ten months old. This option helps to improve the function of the hip joint.
• FHO – This surgical option can be applied to young and adult dogs. Unlike the DPO/TPO, it doesn’t allow for normal use of the hip. The FHO is more surgically invasive, cutting more the femur to fit the joint.
• THR – THR stands for Total Hip Replacement. The THR is a very effective option; however, it does not last as long as other treatments.

Prevention & Maintenance

Prevention methods can reduce the chances of hip dysplasia, but there is no guaranteed method to entirely preventing this condition.

Common Preventative Measures:

• Proper nutrition to prevent excessive growth in puppies
• Weight control
• Researching dog breeders before buying

Sometimes surgery is not always an available option, so there are non-surgical alternatives available to help manage symptoms associated with hip dysplasia.

Common non-surgical treatment options include:

• Supplements: Containing Omega-3 fatty acids, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine.
  • Nutramax Dasaquin Soft Chews
  • Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement Plus MSM
  • Hemp Chewz
  • Nutramax Welectin for Dogs
  • Zesty Paws Omega-3
• Weight Management – Ensuring your dog’s weight is controlled will aid in your dog’s overall comfort.  The stress of carrying excess weight can worsen symptoms related to hip dysplasia.
• Physical Therapy – Physical therapy can help retain and build needed muscle in the body as well as maintain or increase mobility.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications – Several anti-inflammatory prescription medications can help manage swelling and discomfort. Common anti-inflammatory remedies are Gabapentin and Carprofen.
• Acupuncture – Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and control pain.
• Cold Laser Therapy and Ultra-Sound Therapy – Used to reduce inflammation

Top Dog Foods for Arthritis and Hip Dysplasia

There are two different categories for food to prevent or support dogs with hip dysplasia and arthritis.

Best Puppy Foods to Control Growth

1. Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy for Large Breeds

Purina Pro Plan has been enhanced with DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an essential omega-3 fatty acid. DHA aids in the development of the neural, nervous system and retinal function.

Pros:

• Rich in Omega-6 Fatty Acids
• High-Quality Lean Protein
• Multiple Natural Sources of Glucosamine

Cons:

• Lack of superfoods
• Contains Garlic Oil

2. IAMS Proactive Health Smart Puppy Large Breed

IAMS large breed puppy formula is designed for dogs up to 24 months old. IAMS puppy formula contains DHA, lean proteins, and antioxidants.

Pros:

• Chicken is the first ingredient
• Contains beet pulp to improve digestive health
• Contains fish oil

Cons:

• Corn is the second ingredient
• Contains Caramel Color

3. Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin’s specially formulated puppy food is a well-balanced food that contains EPA/DHA. Additionally, this food is enhanced with glucosamine and chondroitin.

Pros:

• Protein Rich
• Contains psyllium seed husk and dried beet pulp for improved digestive health
• Rich in fatty acids

Cons:

• Chicken By-Product Meal is the first ingredient

4. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Puppy

Wellness does not contain grains, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Packed with high amounts of lean proteins and rich with superfoods, like spinach, broccoli, kale, and sweet potatoes.

Pros:

• Contains probiotics to promote good digestive health
• Contains DHA and Salmon Oil
• Enhanced with superfoods to improve their immune systems

Cons:

• Grain-Free foods are linked to heart disease

Best Foods for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis

1. Nutro Ultra Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food

Ultra is made up of quality non-GMO ingredients. This food contains chicken, which is a natural source of chondroitin and glucosamine, making it perfect for dogs with hip dysplasia and arthritis.

Pros:

• Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
• Contains superfoods like kale, pumpkin, and blueberries

Cons:

• Does not include pro or prebiotics

2. Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Instinct is a high-quality grain-free food containing L-Carnitine, which promotes a healthy metabolism. Instinct Healthy Weight is a multi-protein food containing chicken, turkey, and fish.  This food has also been enhanced with probiotics.

Pros:

• Rich in superfoods like kelp, pumpkin seeds, and blueberries
• Chicken is the first ingredient
• High in Omega -3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which promotes healthy joints

Cons:

• Grain-free, so not the best for dogs with heart issues.

3. Canidae Pure Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Canidae Pure Health has nine main ingredients, perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. This is the ideal food for dogs with hip dysplasia or arthritis, as it has been strongly enhanced with glucosamine and chondroitin. This Canidae recipe has been specially formulated for dogs who are overweight or less active. 

Pros:

• Free from grains, soy, and artificial flavors and colors.
• Cost
• Protein is the first three ingredients

Cons:

• Contains chicken so may not be suitable for dogs with common protein allergies

4. Dogswell Happy Hips Chicken & Oats Recipe Dry Dog Food

Dogswell is a food uniquely designed for dogs with hip and joint issues. This food is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints. Additionally, this food is full of superfoods like blueberries, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed to boost the immune system.

Pros:

• Chicken is the first ingredient in this food
• Contains probiotics
• Lower fat content

Cons:

• Does not contain Fatty Acids

5. Victor Performance Formula Dry Dog Food

Victor food is ideal for active dogs who suffer from joint problems. This food contains selenium yeast which promotes cellular regeneration, excellent for dogs healing from joint surgeries. Additionally, this food has been enhanced with pro and pre-biotics to encourage a healthy digestive system.

Pros:

• Enhanced with chondroitin and glucosamine
• Rich in Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids
• Contains a variety of proteins

Cons:

• Low fiber content

6. Wag – Beef with Wild Boar Dog Food

This multi-protein rich food is high in chondroitin and glucosamine. Also, this food has been enhanced with Omega-3&6 fatty acids ideal for joint health. Wag is free from grains and is a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities. Wag has a high protein content that aids in promoting strong healthy muscles.

Pros:

• Contains probiotics
• Contains beet pulp to aid in good digestive health
• Cost/Value

Cons:

• Low in fiber

Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Dysplasia

Can a dog live a healthy life with hip dysplasia? 

How is hip dysplasia diagnosed? 

Is surgery the only treatment option for hip dysplasia? 

Can puppies have hip dysplasia before they are fully grown? 

Final Thoughts

Caring for a dog with hip dysplasia and joint problems can be challenging, but thankfully there are a lot of options to help keep your dog comfortable. One of the best treatment plans for dogs suffering from joint health issues is using a combination of treatments. Using a variety of treatments will provide the best care possible.

A good combination of treatments is:

• Specialized food for joint health
• Supplements
• Physical therapy and Laser therapy
• Acupuncture