Supplemental regimens for dogs is a surefire way to help prevent the development of canine hip dysplasia. Vitamin C has been long discussed to have very positive effects for decreasing symptoms of dogs experiencing pain and discomfort from hip dysplasia. A study in 1996 on two German Shepherds with a history of diagnosed hip dysplasia. During pregnancy, the mother was given vitamin C supplements and the babies where given vitamin C from birth through full maturity and growth of the puppies. None of the puppies developed CHD.

Although this is a definitive case that there are techniques to preventing canine hip dysplasia, responsiveness to supplements varies from dog to dog. A method of increased doses of Vitamin C supplementation until the dog shows signs bowel issues (diarrhea, constipation, vomit). Typically, in humans too, dogs lack proper levels of vitamin C — which is known for curing a wide variety of joint ailments and illnesses throughout the entirety of their life. As a puppy, vitamin C is important in the correct development of bone structure.

VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS

• Antioxidants (Vitamin C, A, Zinc)
• Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (Adequan)
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Glucosamine and Chondrotin
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Vitamins for hip dysplasia range depending on the severity of the case at hand. Some dysplastic dogs can live happy lives with proper amounts of medication and supplements and not see worsening issues until the dog has reached an older age. Antioxidants and supplements are widely used by veterinarians and have been proven to significantly reduce pain in some cases.

Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan (Adequan) is a series of shots that supports and promotes cartilage growth and lubricating fluids in joints. Many owners are satisfied with the improvement of their dog after the shots, but the option is expensive so cost reduced oral versions of the shot have been created, but don’t have the full effect as the shots do. These shots have proven to significantly reduce the progression of hip dysplasia in dogs.

Hyaluronic Acid is another component of the fluid made for joint lubrication, giving supplemental doses of this can improve movement of the hips but is usually used in addition to stronger pain-relieving and tissue regenerating drugs. Another supplment, Glucosaime is widely used in addition to chondrotin products which form together to create glycosaminoglycan, which also lubricates joints and helps to form cartilage.

Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA fatty acids) mainly found in cold-water sea life have been studied to reduce inflammation and is a risky free method for possibly reducing the pain of arthritis and dysplasia.