Just like their human companions, the nutritional needs of dogs change as they get older. Nutrition and dental care become altogether more important as dogs age, which is why choosing the right chews for elderly dogs is so vital. It is also important to keep in mind that not all chews for elderly dogs are created equal. There is a clear difference between supplemental chews that contain the best senior dog vitamin regiment possible and bone or rawhide chews that, while not dangerous for your dog, offer no real nutritional benefit.
Boost Their Health
Dogs will gnaw on just about anything, which is why owners need to pay close attention to what their dogs have access to. Luckily, most people are aware that items like cooked chicken bones and other hollow bones are unsafe for dogs, as they can splinter and form dangerous fragments that can damage a dog’s esophagus or stomach.
"Surely then," some owners think, "as long as a chew isn't actively dangerous for my dog, what's the difference?" Just because a chew is safe for your dog's health does not mean that it is providing him or her with anything close to the best senior dog vitamin formulation that many supplemental chews offer. If you want your dog to continue living a happy, healthy, mobile life then why would you not boost their health with access to supplemental chews that are specially formulated for elderly dogs?
Maintaining Mobility
Just like humans, dogs’ joints begin to wear down as they age. This is equally true for larger breeds as well as breeds with genetic predispositions to joint issues, such a German Shepherds. Supplemental chews like PawMedica’s products offer a range of ingredients that are scientifically proven to enhance the joint function of dogs.
These include, but are in no way limited to:
- Glucosamine, which is a key component in building and maintenance of joint cartilage
- Organic Hemp Seed Oil, which has various anti-inflammatory properties
- Chondroitin Sulfate, which is used in both animals and humans as an osteoarthritis treatment
- Organic Turmeric root powder, which is an anti-inflammatory agent that has been safely used for centuries
What About Taste?
You may be asking yourself, "with all of these ingredients, will my dog even like the taste of these chews? Wouldn't he rather have a nice elk antler or T-bone?" Chews for elderly dogs are specially formulated with the dogs' tastes in mind. Just because the chews are created with powerful anti-inflammatory and pro-cartilage ingredients does not mean they are artificially flavored or will be a chore to get your hound to eat. Dogs love the taste of these all natural, non-GMO chews.
Choosing the Right Chew
As dogs get older, they need every advantage. After all, it's a dog-eat-dog world out there. All things being equal, supplemental chews that offer joint protection are the alpha dog chews compared to basic bones and rawhides.