Arthritis and joint pain cause even the most energetic dogs to slow down. While medications and physical therapy are common treatments, addressing the dog’s digestive system may be the missing link to restoring mobility and comfort.

The Gut-Joint Connection

Inflammation in dogs is commonly associated with injuries or autoimmune diseases such as immune-mediated polyarthritis. However, chronic inflammation can also originate in the gut. The digestive tract hosts trillions of microorganisms that influence the immune response. When the gut lining is damaged or the microbiome is disrupted, substances may leak into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation that can affect organs and joints.

“As a holistic pet health coach, I’ve seen time and again how joint pain and mobility issues improve when the gut is healed,” says Melissa Knievel Natanson, a holistic pet health coach and canine nutritionist in Pismo Beach, California. “Chronic gut inflammation, dysbiosis or leaky gut can trigger systemic inflammation, which often presents as joint pain. Many dogs with arthritis also have a history of gastrointestinal issues like loose stools, skin flareups or food sensitivities. These could be important clues of a gut-joint connection.”

A 2020 study published in Veterinary Sciences supports this link, revealing notable differences in the gut bacteria of arthritic and healthy dogs. Arthritic dogs had lower levels of microbial families that were more abundant in healthy dogs, including Paraprevotellaceae, Porphyromonadaceae and Mogibacteriaceae. These bacteria are often associated with a strong gut lining and balanced immune function. The arthritic dogs had higher levels of anti-inflammatory bacteria like Megamonas.

Natanson notes that the gut and joints are closely connected through the immune system, and shifts in the microbiome may influence how the dog’s body manages inflammation and responds to joint stress.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may help support joint health and mobility in dogs. A 2010 multi-center clinical study of 127 dogs with osteoarthritis published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that dogs that consumed higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and lower levels of omega-6 fatty acids exhibited significantly elevated blood levels of EPA and DHA. They also demonstrated improvements in mobility compared to dogs receiving commercial food. Pet owners of the dogs on the test diet reported that their canine companions had an easier time standing up, walking and playing within weeks of starting the dietary regimen.

Natanson recommends incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into a balanced and species-appropriate canine diet to mitigate inflammation. She emphasizes the consumption of fresh foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory such as fatty fish, bone broth, turmeric, fermented vegetables and antioxidant-rich fruits like blueberries. She also advises against the consumption of ultra-processed kibble, grains and synthetic additives.

Additionally, Natanson recommends manganese-rich foods to support the health of joints and connective tissues because it plays a key role in the formation of collagen, cartilage and joint fluid. Many older dogs are deficient—especially those fed processed diets. Whole food sources such as green-lipped mussels, pumpkin seeds and blueberries can help replenish this important mineral.

Natanson highlights pumpkin as a gentle, gut-friendly food option. Not only does it provide prebiotic fiber to nourish healthy gut flora, but it also delivers a natural dose of manganese, making it a smart addition for dogs with digestive and joint concerns.

It is important to introduce these anti-inflammatory foods with caution, particularly for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Natanson warns that while turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, it can cause loose stools in dogs with a leaky gut or active gastrointestinal inflammation. Similarly, sweet potatoes, often seen as anti-inflammatory, may not be suitable for dogs with gut dysbiosis, yeast overgrowth or metabolic imbalances due to their high starch and sugar content. Natanson says the same can be said for high-fat fish oils that provide excellent joint support but may aggravate pancreatitis or bile-related issues when introduced too aggressively.

For pet parents grappling with chronic health concerns like arthritis, Natanson encourages taking one step at a time, advising, “Start with gut health. You don’t need 20 supplements—just focus on whole foods, trust the process and pay attention to your dog’s cues. Simple, consistent changes can have profound results.” A holistic veterinarian or pet health coach can assist pet parents by customizing a diet plan based on their dog’s individual condition and tolerance.

Learn more about Dr. Ruth Roberts’ approach to holistic pet care and wellness at DrRuthRoberts.com.

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