Dogs are not as they used to be whenever they grow older; these are great changes, especially to large breeds such as German Shepherds. Some of the most common problems senior German Shepherds experience are arthritis, lack of flexibility, gastrointestinal issues, and sometimes cognitive impairment. Healthy natural supplements are useful in boosting their health and making them have the best lives in their seniority. Although no supplement can undo the effects of ageing, there are the right nutrients that can help manage some of the problems usually associated with ageing in dogs. Below are some of the best natural supplements recommended for senior German Shepherds.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, among canines, are widely recommended for senior dogs, especially large breeds such as German shepherds. These natural compounds play an important role in supporting the joint and allowing joints to be flexible. In the ageing process, the cartilage, the soft tissue that covers the ends of bones and acts as a shock absorber, also deteriorates, causing arthritis. Chondroitin sulfate, on the other hand, reduces the rate at which this cartilage is broken down, while glucosamine aids in rebuilding this cartilage.
When complemented with senior dog food, the above supplements provide mobility and reduce inflammation usually associated with arthritis in dogs. This is especially important for German shepherds, as these dogs are closely associated with hip dysplasia and other joint pathologies. For joint benefits, glucosamine and chondroitin are often taken together with other anti-inflammatory substances, such as MSM ((methylsulfonylmethane).
Fish Oil
There is another supplement that is all-natural and suitable for older German Shepherds: fish oil, which contains Omega-3 fatty acids. There is a component of omega-3 with anti-inflammatory values, which will greatly help dogs suffering from arthritis or any other inflammatory diseases. Fish oil also contains EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which have special benefits influencing heart health, brain functions, and skin and coat conditions.
Using fish oil for senior dogs can assist in reducing painful joint signs, controlling inflammation, and enhancing brain function. Besides, it can also make their skin healthy and free it from the dryness which most dogs experience as they grow up. Contrary to farm-raised fish oil supplements, fish oil supplements derived from wild-caught fish sources gave higher clinical levels of beneficial fatty acids with minimal contaminants.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory substance derived naturally from plants and commonly used by people as a supplement for animals. An active component of turmeric, curcumin has been proven to possess anti-inflammatory properties with the potential to relieve arthritic pains. As for older German Shepherds, who might experience difficulties with mobility, turmeric will help them ease the pain in their joints and maintain their overall health.
It also has an anti-inflammatory effect, and the antioxidant nature of the spice serves to defend cells from some of the effects of ageing. It also enhances liver function and may help with digestion ailments common in old dogs. It is essential to ensure that the turmeric supplement given to your dog contains black pepper extract piperine or is formulated so the body can easily absorb it because turmeric cannot be easily absorbed.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for the gut microbial community’s health and are particularly useful for older dogs. Like any other breed, digestion of food becomes a problem with ageing in German Shepherds, and this can result in diarrhoea, constipation, and poor nutrient absorption. Using probiotics in the form of supplements can solve the problem of digestion, increase the efficiency of the assimilation of nutrients, and strengthen the immune system.
Older dogs have sensitive stomachs, and any change in the food they consume requires a probiotic to get the most out of the great ingredients in the food. In addition, some probiotics may contribute to reducing specific adverse signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as flatulence, which is apparent in old-age dogs. Therefore, the best probiotic supplements should contain a variety of bacteria to have an effective shot at consulting the many areas of your body that require bacteria to function properly.
Coconut Oil
This topic highlights how you can use coconut oil as a natural supplement in your senior dog’s diet and the benefits it has on them. It has free MCTs, which are believed to enhance brain activity and are considered to impact the decrease in a dog’s mental capacity in its elder years. German Shepherds, like any other big breeds, often suffer from cognitive impairment as they age; thus, adding coconut oil to their foods stimulates the brain and enables the dogs to be more alert.
Coconut oil is good for cognition, fur and skin health and promotes shiny coats. Diet change is another reason for older dogs as they develop dry or flaky skin, and coconut oil, when massaged to the skin or ingested, improves the skin’s moisture, lustre and health. Some health benefits of coconut oil include skin improvement, wound healing, and antibacterial and antifungal characteristics.
Green Lipped Mussel
It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin, making it a special food supplement for joint problems. This shellfish found in New Zealand possesses an unusual nutritional profile that has been proven to help with the alleviation of arthritis in dogs through its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to enhance movement in the affected joints. Regarding German Shepherds of senior age who have joint problems, the green-lipped mussel can effectively treat stiffness and pain. They both have joint benefits, but the green-lipped mussel contains antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress on the body cells, making them healthy.
Milk Thistle
Another supplement that can be used in senior dogs is milk thistle, which is used to support the liver activity of the dog, especially if the dog is on long-term medication, which may affect the liver. Silymarin, the complex of active substances of milk thistle, has pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which makes it possible to prevent the development of hepatic pathology and stimulate liver tissue regeneration.
In senior German Shepherds, milk thistle may be quite beneficial in helping the liver cleanse itself and work better. This diet is normally suggested for dogs who have been on prescription drugs for arthritis, skin ailments or other relentless illnesses. However generally, it is safe for most dogs, but before adding the milk thistle supplement to your dog’s diet, it is better to seek the vet’s permission.
Conclusion
Natural supplements for the senior German shepherds can greatly improve their quality of life, thus making it important to support the health of these dogs. Whether it’s in bones, joints, digestion or brain function, some supplements can provide relief typically experienced with age. Sometimes, some natural remedies such as glucosamine, fish oil, turmeric, probiotics, coconut oil, green-lipped mussel, milk thistle, etc., can help soothe the senior German Shepherds and keep them healthy. Once again, it is recommended to seek the advice of a vet concerning any changes in your dog’s diet since some supplements may not be suitable for every dog.
