Best Dog Food for Hips and Joints: Top Picks for Healthy Canine Mobility

As our furry friends age, their joints and hips can become stiff and painful. It’s essential to provide them with a diet that supports their joint health and mobility. That’s where the best dog food for hips and joints comes in.

These types of dog food are specially formulated to provide essential nutrients that support joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. They also often contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.

When choosing the best dog food for hips and joints, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content. Look for high-quality protein sources and avoid fillers like corn and wheat, which can cause inflammation and exacerbate joint pain.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for supporting your dog’s joint health. Our top picks offer balanced nutrition and high-quality ingredients to help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Best Dog Food for Hips and Joints

As pet owners, we want to ensure our furry friends are healthy and happy. One of the most common health concerns for dogs, especially as they age, is joint pain and arthritis. Thankfully, there are dog foods designed to support joint health and mobility. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best dog foods for hips and joints. These products have been carefully selected based on their ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Read on to find the perfect food to support your dog’s joint health and keep them active and playful for years to come.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Jolly Joints Natural Mobility Support Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken 24-lb Chicken 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a natural dog food that supports your dog’s hip and joint health, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Jolly Joints Natural Mobility Support Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product because it is made with high-quality ingredients that are recommended by veterinarians.

Pros

• The formula contains glucosamine and chondroitin, clinically proven to support hip and joint health.
• The recipe features real chicken, healthy whole grains, and the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
• The product is free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Jolly Joints Natural Mobility Support Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with hip and joint problems. The product contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which are clinically proven to support hip and joint health. The recipe also features real chicken, healthy whole grains, and the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

One of the best things about this product is that it is free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This means that you can be sure that your dog is getting only the best ingredients.

However, the product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food options, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to get your dog used to it. Finally, the product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so it is important to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Jolly Joints Natural Mobility Support Adult Dry Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and proven ability to support hip and joint health in dogs.

Nature’s Diet Pet Original Bone Broth Protein Powder with Functional Benefits for Hip and Joint, Digestion, Skin and Coat

We highly recommend Nature’s Diet Pet Original Bone Broth Protein Powder with Functional Benefits for Hip and Joint, Digestion, Skin and Coat. This product is made in the USA with human-grade ingredients and is perfect for dogs with bone, cartilage, and joint support issues, which are common in senior dogs.

Pros

• Made in the USA with human-grade ingredients
• Available in five flavors, including Hip -amp; Joint
• Nutrient-dense with over 50% protein and no additives or fillers

Cons

• May not dissolve well
• Some dogs may not like the taste or smell
• May be more expensive than other bone broth products

This bone broth powder is easy to make and provides a nutrient-rich gravy that can be used as a liquid treat, to moisten food, or sprinkled over food as a dry meal topper. It is raw and paleo diet-friendly, gluten and grain-free, and contains no byproducts or preservatives.

We have found that this product is great for dogs with dry or flaky skin and provides a lustrous coat shine. It is also packed full of pre and probiotics for a healthy gut.

Overall, we believe that Nature’s Diet Pet Original Bone Broth Protein Powder with Functional Benefits for Hip and Joint, Digestion, Skin and Coat is a great investment for any pet owner looking to improve their dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

Purina ONE Plus Joint Health Formula Natural With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Dog Food – 31.1 lb. Bag NEW! Joint Health 31.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your furry friend’s joint health and mobility, Purina ONE Plus Joint Health Formula Natural With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• Contains fish oil and glucosamine to support joint health and mobility, which is especially important for medium-to-large breed or senior dogs.
• Made with natural ingredients, minus any artificial flavors, preservatives or fillers, ensuring 100 percent nutrition for your dog.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food options.

We’ve been using Purina ONE Plus Joint Health Formula Natural With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Dog Food for our senior dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her mobility. The real chicken provides her with the protein she needs to maintain strong muscles, and the added fish oil and glucosamine support her joint health. We appreciate that the food is made with natural ingredients and is free of artificial flavors, preservatives, or fillers.

The kibble is crunchy and works well with added calcium to support strong teeth and healthy gums. Our dog loves the tender meaty morsels that add even more yummy textures. We’ve also noticed that her coat is shinier and her skin is healthier since we switched to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Plus Joint Health Formula Natural With Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients Dry Dog Food for anyone looking to support their dog’s joint health and mobility. It may be pricier than other dog food options, but the benefits to our furry friend’s health are worth the investment.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your furry friend’s hips and joints, the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient in this dog food is real lamb, providing protein that helps support strong muscles, including your dog’s heart.
• This formula includes natural sources of glucosamine to support joint health, vitamins A and E to promote bright eyes, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to nourish a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Made with prebiotic fiber, this high protein dog food supports a microbiome balance and is highly digestible, helping to maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this formula.
• The kibble may be too large for smaller dogs.
• This formula may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

We recently tried the Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula for our senior dog who was experiencing some joint stiffness. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients, including the real lamb as the first ingredient, and the added vitamins and nutrients that support overall health. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the kibble, and we noticed an improvement in his mobility after a few weeks of eating this formula. However, we did find that the kibble was a bit large for our smaller dog, and we had to break it up for him to eat comfortably. Overall, we would recommend this dog food to others looking for a high-quality formula that supports their dog’s hips and joints.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes healthy joints and mobility, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive.

Pros

• The air-drying method naturally preserves all ingredients without artificial fillers, maximizing flavor and retaining nutrients.
• Made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe, this dog food is nutrient-dense and may help promote allergy relief, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, joint health and mobility, and weight maintenance.
• Ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• This product is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods on the market.
• The lamb flavor may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or preferences.
• The 1-pound pack size may not be ideal for larger dogs or for those who want to buy in bulk.

We highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for its high-quality, limited-ingredient recipe that promotes joint health and mobility. The air-drying process and inclusion of superfoods make this dog food a nutritious alternative to a raw diet.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken

We highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken due to its balanced nutrition and focus on joint health.

Pros

• Real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
• Formulated to support healthy bones and joints with a balance of key nutrients for senior dogs
• Wholesome blend of fiber and prebiotics to promote healthy digestion, plus antioxidants to support a strong immune system

Cons

• Some customers have reported difficulty finding the expiration date on the bag
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

As our senior dog began to experience joint pain and stiffness, we decided to try the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken. We were impressed with the real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient, and the balanced nutrition that supports healthy bones and joints. Additionally, the blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, while the antioxidants support a strong immune system.

Since switching to this food, we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s mobility and overall health. We appreciate that IAMS offers a full line of foods for dogs of all ages, sizes, and dietary needs, and we trust the brand’s commitment to quality and balanced nutrition.

While some customers have reported difficulty finding the expiration date on the bag, we have not had any issues with freshness or quality. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of this food, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend the IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken for its focus on joint health and balanced nutrition.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you want to give your dog a meal complement or a topper that’s made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, from real chicken and duck to real vegetables.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food options.
• Some customers have reported that the food clumps together weirdly.
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in this dog food. The natural chicken and duck flavors really come through, and our dog absolutely loved it. We also appreciate that it’s made without any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food can be a bit pricey compared to other options. Additionally, some customers have reported that the food clumps together weirdly, making it difficult to mix in with dry dog food. Finally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this dog food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we think Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option for pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality, natural meal complement or topper. If you’re willing to pay a bit more for quality ingredients and great taste, this is definitely worth considering.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag Chicken 1.88 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious dry dog food that supports healthy weight control, IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is an excellent option. Here’s what we’ve found:

Pros

• Contains L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs
• Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy
• Protein sourced from chicken and eggs supports strong, firm muscles

Cons

• Some dogs may experience gas on this diet
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We love that this dog food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and contains 17% less fat than IAMS MINICHUNKS. Additionally, the inclusion of L-carnitine supports healthy metabolism, while the wholesome grains provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy. We’ve noticed that our dog’s weight has been more manageable since switching to this diet.

However, some dogs may experience gas on this diet, so it’s important to monitor their digestive health. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds, and this food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, we recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dogs who need support with healthy weight control.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Joint Care Joint Supplement for Large Breed Dogs Hip and Joint Supplement

If you’re looking for a supplement to support your dog’s joint health, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Joint Care Joint Supplement for Large Breed Dogs Hip and Joint Supplement is a great choice.

Pros

• The supplement chews are formulated to support mobility and healthy cartilage and joints.
• Contains a powerful blend of glucosamine, collagen, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid to help maintain healthy cartilage and joints.
• Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs from cod liver oil to support a normal inflammatory response in joints from natural aging and healthy skin and coat for dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chews.
• The supplement may not work for all dogs with joint issues.
• The price may be higher than other joint supplements on the market.

We recently tried out this supplement for our large breed dog who was starting to show signs of joint discomfort and reduced mobility. After using it for a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in his mobility and overall comfort. The chews are easy to administer and our dog seems to enjoy the taste.

It’s important to note that not all dogs may respond to this supplement, and it may take some time for the effects to be noticeable. Additionally, the price may be higher than other joint supplements on the market, but we believe the quality of the ingredients and the effectiveness of the supplement make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Joint Care Joint Supplement for Large Breed Dogs Hip and Joint Supplement for any dog owners looking to support their dog’s joint health and mobility.

Grizzly Joint Aid for Dogs Liquid Hip and Joint Support (Extra Strength)

If you are looking for an all-natural supplement to support your dog’s hip and joint health, Grizzly Joint Aid Formula is a great option.

Pros

• Aids in the natural maintenance of joints
• Joint maintenance formula
• Supports synovial fluids, connective tissues, and cartilage

Cons

• May take time to see noticeable results
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The pump may break during shipping

We have been using Grizzly Joint Aid Formula for our dog for a few months now, and we have noticed an improvement in his mobility and comfort. The formula contains five hip and joint ingredients, including glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which help maintain and support joint flexibility and movability, recovery from injury, and stiffness or soreness associated with normal daily activity. The formula also includes Grizzly Krill Oil, which helps with absorption.

One of the things we appreciate about Grizzly Joint Aid Formula is its high palatability. Our dog loves the natural wild krill taste, which makes it easy to administer. The formula is also less harsh on our dog’s digestive system compared to other supplements we have tried.

Another benefit of Grizzly Joint Aid Formula is that it supports synovial fluids, connective tissues, and cartilage, which is crucial in many older dogs. It may help reduce inflammation, ease aches and discomforts, and ease joint stiffness associated with normal daily activity, exercise, training, and competition.

However, it is important to note that Grizzly Joint Aid Formula may take time to see noticeable results. Some dogs may also not like the taste, so it may be necessary to mix it with their food. Additionally, the pump may break during shipping, so it is important to check the product upon arrival.

Overall, we highly recommend Grizzly Joint Aid Formula for any dog in need of hip and joint support.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for hips and joints, there are a few key features to look out for. Here are some things to consider when making your decision:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dog food for hips and joints is the ingredients. Look for foods that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, fish, or lamb. These proteins will help to build and maintain muscle mass, which is important for supporting your dog’s joints. Additionally, look for foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which are natural compounds that can help to reduce joint inflammation and improve joint health.

Nutritional Content

Another important factor to consider is the nutritional content of the food. Look for foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus. These nutrients are important for maintaining strong bones and joints. Additionally, look for foods that are low in fat and calories, as excess weight can put added stress on your dog’s joints.

Brand Reputation

When choosing a dog food for hips and joints, it’s important to choose a reputable brand. Look for brands that have a history of producing high-quality, nutritious foods that are specifically formulated for joint health. Additionally, look for brands that have a good reputation among pet owners and veterinarians.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the dog food. While it’s important to choose a high-quality food that will support your dog’s joint health, you don’t want to break the bank. Look for foods that are reasonably priced and offer good value for money.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for hips and joints that will help to keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in dog food to support joint health?

When looking for dog food that supports joint health, you should look for ingredients that contain Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and antioxidants. These ingredients help to reduce inflammation and support healthy joint function.

How does glucosamine and chondroitin in dog food benefit joint conditions?

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two ingredients that are commonly found in dog food that supports joint health. These ingredients work together to help reduce inflammation and promote healthy joint function. Glucosamine helps to rebuild cartilage, while chondroitin helps to lubricate and cushion joints.

What is the most effective dog food for managing arthritis in dogs?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The most effective dog food for managing arthritis in dogs will depend on the individual dog’s needs and the severity of their condition. However, dog foods that contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and Omega-3 fatty acids are often recommended for dogs with arthritis.

Can a dog’s diet influence the progression of hip dysplasia?

Yes, a dog’s diet can influence the progression of hip dysplasia. Feeding your dog a diet that is high in protein, calcium, and other nutrients that support bone health can help to slow the progression of hip dysplasia.

Are there specific brands of dog food that veterinarians recommend for joint support?

There are several brands of dog food that veterinarians recommend for joint support. Some of the most popular brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs will respond to these brands in the same way, and it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

How can weight management in dog food formulations help with joint issues?

Weight management in dog food formulations can help with joint issues by reducing the amount of stress that is placed on the joints. Excess weight can cause additional strain on the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. Feeding your dog a diet that is tailored to their specific nutritional needs can help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of joint issues.