Joint problems with Large Breed Pups

Large breed pups are known to have joint problems.

A lot of issues during the first year of growth are related to the disparity in body mass to joint development.

As puppies grow, their joint development tends to lag behind. If puppies were relatively docile or inactive that usually would not be an issue, however, almost all puppies love a couple solid play sessions a day. I could always tell when Bruno was going to come up lame based on the number of times he jumped on and off the couch in a day. Like clockwork, the next day he would have a limp and almost be unable to bear weight on any given leg. Bruno got big, and he got big fast. He was never obese or even overweight. Throughout his entire youth you could feel his rib cage.

We did things different with Beau. Beau was fed adult food from the moment he arrived. His growth was much more gradual, and this resulted in far less instances of coming up lame. Both Bruno and Beau have been on joint supplements since they were puppies.

The joint supplement we give them is Dasuquin.

Joint supplements serve a variety of functions other than improving joint function; some of these benefits include: immune system boosting properties, reducing in oxidative stress, relieving symptoms associated with allergies, alleviating pain.

The only time they have missed doses of Dasuquin has been when the local store has run out and/or I forgot to order more. There is a noticeable drop off in activity level when discontinuing the supplement for 1-2 weeks, and overall they just seem to have less pep in their step.

Straight adult food from 8 weeks on may not be appropriate for all dogs.

All I can attest to is that Beau's growth was far more gradual than Bruno's.

Beau is built different than Bruno. If I were to describe them, Bruno would be the tank and Beau would be the athlete.

I can not say for sure if Bruno would have a little more athlete in him if he was fed the same way in his youth.

Regardless, joint supplementation from puppy to adulthood is a must.

Getting a head start on joint health will save a lot of time, money, and stress.