Top Tips: Joint Health for Horses and Dogs

Maintaining joint health is crucial for both equine and canine athletes. It ensures they can perform at their best and live active, comfortable lives. Whether caring for a horse in training or a dog who loves to play- here are several practical ways to support their joints and prevent long-term damage.

1. Regular Exercise and Movement for Joint Health

Maintaining regular, controlled exercise is key for both horses and dogs. Consider incorporating warm-ups, cool-downs, and balanced workouts to avoid overstrain, particularly in high-impact sports for horses. Dogs however benefit from low-impact exercises like swimming or controlled walks. Especially breeds prone to joint issues like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Bulldogs.

• 💡 Pro Tip for Horses: HOOF HEALTH!! Proper hoof care is critical for reducing joint stress. Well-maintained hooves absorb concussive forces more effectively, minimizing strain on the joints. Be aware of the footing your horse is working on too beause excessively hard footing, for example, can mean more trauma on joints during work.
• 💡 Pro Tip for Dogs: Puzzle toys or scent games can engage dogs' minds, helping reduce the stress on their joints from too much physical exertion. This can be especially beneficial for senior dogs or those with arthritis, allowing them to stay active in a low-impact way.

2. Balanced Nutrition for Joint Health

Diet plays a significant role in joint health for both species. Ensure they receive a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin.Camelina oil in ExcelEQ ProElite is an excellent supplement for horses to support joint health. Dogs can benefit from supplements like ExcelK9 that help with inflammation and support cartilage repair.

3. Weight Management for Joint Health

Excess weight puts unnecessary stress on joints, leading to early degeneration. Manage your horses' and dogs' diet and exercise routines to keep them in optimal shape. For dogs, especially larger breeds, maintain a healthy weight to minimize the risk of arthritis and hip dysplasia. 

• 💡 Click here for instructions on how to assess your horse's weight. 
• 💡 Click here for instructions on how to assess your dog's weight. 

4. Joint Health Supplements

Proactive joint care can significantly benefit horses and dogs, especially as they age or engage in high-impact activities. Joint supplements containing ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids support cartilage health, reduce inflammation and promote overall joint function. When shopping for horse supplements, look for ones that provide anti-inflammatory benefits and improve mobility, particularly for those involved in regular training or competition. In dogs, especially breeds prone to joint problems, such as large or older dogs, joint supplements can support recovery from exercise, reduce pain from conditions like arthritis, and help maintain healthy joints for long-term mobility.

• 💡 Pro Tip for Horses: Did you know camelina oil, like the one in ExcelEQ ProElite, provides powerful equine joint support? The omega-3 fatty acids and polyphenols in camelina oil can help reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and support muscle health—especially important for equine athletes facing the wear and tear of competition. Regular supplementation can keep your horse comfortable and performing at their best.
• 💡 Pro Tip for Dogs: If you have a dog breed prone to joint issues, such as a Labrador or German Shepherd, adding a joint supplement like ExcelK9 to their diet can make a big difference. ExcelK9 contains key ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to help protect cartilage and promote mobility. Dogs with existing joint discomfort can benefit from this supplement as it supports recovery and keeps them active for years to come!

5. Routine Veterinary Care

Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring joint health. Horses involved in competitive events should have their joints evaluated to prevent issues from escalating. Similarly, dogs should keep up with regular vet visits to ensure that early signs of joint problems, such as limping or stiffness, can be addressed quickly

By focusing on these joint care strategies, you can help ensure that your equine and canine athletes stay healthy, strong, and pain-free, whether performing in a high-level competition or enjoying their everyday activities.

Resources: 

Common Dog Breeds Affected by joint Problems

5 Tips for Protecting Your Equine Athletes Joints

Does My Dog Have Arthritis? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions

WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee