The Best Health Supplements for Senior Labrador

We all like to spend many years with our Labradors. Labs are healthy dogs and can live up to ten to twelve years. When your dog reaches its senior years, you may have to look for ways to support its health. After all, caring for your pet is quite significant. You must consider everything good for your dog’s mental and physical health. In their senior years, they tend to suffer from some health problems. It will be significant to pay attention to its diet and nutritional requirements.

Here we have discussed some supplements that are some of the most recommended products; as far as Senior Labs are concerned. Talk to your vet before you make any sudden changes to their medical and dietary regimen.

Best Health Supplements for Senior Labrador

Glucosamine and chondroitin 

These are the best options that you have for supporting the aging joints of your lab. Arthritis and joint pain are common ailments your Lab will face when they reach their seniority. Supplements with glucosamine will help replace the fluid they lose in their joints. It provides some much-needed lubrication in those parts of their bodies and cushioning to the joints that can otherwise become achy and stiff. Chondroitin sulfate improves the structural integrity of their joints, and it does so by repairing damaged cartilage and making sure that it does not break down any further.

Probiotics 

These are important for supporting your senior lab’s guts and immunity system. Probiotic supplements contain large doses of microorganisms and promote a healthy GI (gastrointestinal) tract by permitting the good bacteria in their gut to flourish. Bad bacteria often accumulate in our dogs’ systems owing to stress, long-term use of medication, and illness. Since most of the immune system of your senior Lab is in their guts, probiotics also help them stay healthy all over. For this, you can choose the 3-in-1 Probiotic Dog Chews from iHeartDogs. It contains pumpkin for gut health and improved digestion.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids 

These help your senior Lab fight inflammation and reduce the problem of itchy skin. Older dogs experience itchy and dry skin with brittle and dull coats. You can include Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet of a senior Lab. It can reduce inflammation and promote shiny, soft coats and healthy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids support bone health and healthy mobility among senior Labs. Also, they provide them with benefits such as allergy support, healthy brain function, heart health, and visual acuity.

One of the best sources of Omega-3 right now is Krill oil – it contains a special kind of fatty acid.

Milk thistle 

It is beneficial for supporting the kidney and liver of your senior Lab – This is especially beneficial for dogs on pain medication. Natural milk thistle protects the liver from damage. Milk thistle might also enhance the functioning of the organ. It is a significant benefit for aging Labs, especially those already facing issues with their livers and taking medicines known to tax them. Before taking any such step, you must consult the doctor.

Curcumin 

Derived from turmeric, Curcumin helps your old Lab fight inflammation and pain. It is known as a wonder spice and capable of providing them with the extent of relief they would get from NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Curcumin has earned a significant reputation. It is supposed to consist of properties that help it fight the tumor. Hence, curcumin helps support dental health among such dogs. Nowadays, you have a lot of joint and hip supplements of the highest quality that contain turmeric in their formula, such as iHeartDogs Advanced 8-in-1 Hip & Joint Chews for Mobility.

CBD oil 

This oil is highly beneficial in helping your senior Lab deal with inflammation and pain. When discussing the best supplements for senior dogs, the discussion would not be complete without CBD (cannabidiol). In the past five years, many studies have started to show the great potential that the cannabinoid has in improving joint pain, calming nervous dogs, reducing inflammation because of allergies, and lowering seizures in epileptic pups. In these cases, it is always better to go for CBD oils and products that do not contain any THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

Also, make sure to buy a product tested on several occasions while it was being manufactured to ensure that you get a potent and pure product.

Fiber 

This is great for the digestive health of your senior Lab. Senior dogs tend to experience changes in the linings of their intestines which reduces their ability to digest their food and absorb the nutrients in their food. Add healthy fiber to your baby’s food at such an advanced stage of their lives. It would support their digestive system to be healthy, combat constipation, and promote overall health.

Extra protein 

This is great for supporting Labs when they are getting on in years. Even as they get older, their bodies start to break down tissues and muscles quicker than they did when they were younger. This is the reason why aging dogs need more protein in their diet. However, there are some exceptions to this, such as when your baby suffers from chronic kidney disease, in which case your vet might suggest a diet low on protein. Senior Labs prefer having extra protein instead of their regular kibble.

Mushrooms safe for dogs like Shiitake, Reishi, and Turkey Tail 

These are great options for boosting the immune system of your senior Lab. Mushrooms are such an exciting area among upcoming nutritional studies that it is incredible. Some clinical trials have shown that they have great promise when it comes to extending the lifespan of dogs who are fighting cancer. Indeed they are not a miracle, but the mushroom breeds mentioned above can help improve your baby’s immune system immensely, and there is no doubt about that at all.

Bone broth rich in collagen 

This is a commendable option for supporting healthy skin and joints in senior Labs and other breeds in general. One of the biggest reasons why Labs die prematurely is reduced mobility. Bone broth is packed with nutrients that support joint health, such as glucosamine, collagen, and chondroitin. All of them help keep your naughty one mobile for longer in life. On top of that, most senior dogs adore the flavor of these products. You can be sure that it will make the food tastier and healthier.

FAQs

What supplement should I give to my senior Labs?

Some of the best supplements for senior Labs are long-chain polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). This is especially true for those with cognition problems and arthritis.

What supplements are good for Labradors in general?

Glucosamine is the most popular supplement for dogs in general. After this comes fish oil, the second commonest supplement given to dogs. Apart from these, antioxidants and probiotics are good for them too.

What are the best foods for a senior Lab?

The best dry food options for senior Labs are Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity 7+ Formula, Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Senior Dogs 8+, and Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Senior Dog Food.

What is the best vitamin for Labradors?

The best vitamin for Labradors is vitamin D, an important vitamin for dogs. MSD Veterinary Manual says that if there is an imbalance between vitamin D, phosphorus, and Calcium D, it can lead to issues for your dog.

How to improve the health of my senior Lab?

The best way to keep your senior Lab healthy is to provide them with adequate exercise.

Conclusion 

So, as you can see, there is no shortage of joint and fiber supplements for your senior Lab. There is a welcome abundance of the same in the market. It is hard to remember them all. The thing with the aforementioned supplements is that even healthy Labradors would benefit from them. It is in your baby’s best interests that you remember the ones we have mentioned here. Apart from supplements, you must make sure to keep your lab active and keep its weight under control.