best dog food for german shepherds with hip dysplasia

5 Best Dog Foods for Hip Dysplasia (2024)

How to Choose the Best Dog Foods for Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition of the bone that most commonly affects large and giant breed dogs. However, small to medium breeds can also be plagued by this life-altering condition. Hip dysplasia is most often inherited: however, inappropriate or excessive exercise can also lead to the development of the disease.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball does not fit into the hip socket correctly. When this occurs, bone rubs against bone causing further deterioration of each joint and bringing with it excruciating pain.

Among the breeds that are known to be prone to hip dysplasis are:

Hip dysplasia most commonly is hereditary and is passed to a puppy from its parents. Unfortunately, passing OFA hip scores does not mean that a set of parents cannot pass down hip dysplasia to their children.

However, even in dogs with excellent hips, hip dysplasia can develop if bone growth during the puppy years occurs too rapidly. Foods that are too rich in protein or that contain the incorrect balance of calcium to phosphorus can lead to growth spurts that the musculoskeletal system cannot keep pace with. As a result, the puppy becomes at greater risk for developing hip or elbow dysplasia or other problems associated with the bones.

Though there are some common symptoms dogs with hip dysplasia may display, some dogs do not show indication at all that they are suffering from this condition. Dogs are masters at hiding pain, and thus, it is sometimes not until the discomfort is extreme that a dog will begin to show signs of the disease.

Among the most commonly seen symptoms of hip dysplasia are:

• Pain or discomfort when rising
• Reduced activity levels
• Limping
• Hind end weakness
• Favoring of a leg
• Noticeable change in movement
• Deterioration of the muscles in the legs
• Inability or unwillingness to navigate stairs
• Stiffness of limbs
• Personality changes

Another condition that often accompanies hip dysplasia is arthritis, an inflammation of the joints that causes great pain to dogs.

There are several different things that can be done to treat dogs suffering from hip dysplasia. Treatment options depend on the extent the disease has begun to affect the dog. Other determining factors in assessing the most effective treatment options are the dogs age and size.

Though diet can play a role in helping to prevent hip dysplasia, some dogs reach the point where surgery is the only option for relief from pain and the restoration of mobility.

By far, the best course of action is to prevent hip dysplasia from occurring by feeding an appropriate diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and encouraging regular exercise. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed for dogs suffering from pain related to this condition.

The best dog foods for hip dysplasia can assist dogs with maintaining a healthy body weight, a vital support in preventing the development of this painful and debilitating health condition.

Choosing the Correct Calorie Count for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

Maintaining a healthy body weight is critical for dogs with the potential for developing hip dysplasia. Since dogs that are allowed to eat at will can easily gain weight, free feeding is strongly discouraged.

Experts recommend consulting the bag of food selected for the dog for a starting point as to suggested serving sizes. These will need to be modified to reflect the dogs weight, activity level, and appetite until the correct portion has been found.

Adult dogs require a high quality diet that contains a minimum of 18 percent protein and 5 percent fat while puppies do best on a food comprised of 22 percent protein and 8 percent fat. Care must be taken to only feed puppies a puppy food that contains the correct amount of calcium to phosphorus to prevent rapid bone growth from occurring, a leading cause of the development of hip dysplasia in large and giant breed dogs.

The best dog foods for hip dysplasia include joint supports such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Dietary Requirements for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

The best dog foods for hip dysplasia are properly nutritionally balanced and contain top quality ingredients that have been carefully selected for their high nutritional value. Ingredients such as artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives should be avoided as they contribute nothing of quality to a dogs diet and are common allergens for many dogs.

A lean animal protein is the preferred foundation of any diet for dogs with the potential for developing hip dysplasia. Whole meats are the premiere choice; however, meat meals are also an excellent option for concentrated protein. By-products and plant-based proteins such as corn, wheat, and soy are not of sufficient quality to be suitable for dogs in need of support to maintain healthy joint function.

Carbohydrates are an important, though lesser, part of any diet for dogs. These can be derived from whole grains, fruits, or vegetables. The main role of these items is their emphasis on dietary fiber and antioxidants to encourage excellent digestion and a healthy immune system.

Healthy fats are a vital part of any diet for dogs. They assist with joint health but also support excellent quality skin and coat and provide dogs with the fuel they need to remain active. Healthy fats are best taken from animal sources such as chicken fat and oily fish.

No diet for dogs that are prone to hip dysplasia is complete without the addition of glucosamine and chondroitin to boost joint function. Prebiotics and probiotics are also valuable additions as they encourage good digestion.

Things to Look for in the Best Dog Foods for Hip Dysplasia

Here is a basic list of the most important things to look for in the best dog food for hip dysplasia:

• Whole meat or meat meal proteins heading up the ingredients list (in non-veterinary diets)
• Prepared without the addition of chemicals, flavorings, fillers, or mystery ingredients
• Enriched with probiotics and helpful supplements
• Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements for a complete and balanced food
• Contains healthy amounts of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support coat and skin health
• Includes glucosamine and chondroitin

Best Dog Food For Hip Dysplasia 2024: Get Your Dog Mobile Again

Dog owners know that play time is one of the most important bonding activities your pet can have with you. Walking, running, and travelling with you are also up there in your pups fun list of things to do.

But imagine what it would be like for him without any of those things. Thats the reality for dogs with canine hip dysplasia.

Without proper treatment and nutrition, canine hip dysplasia can develop into osteoarthritis. And your dog may suffer from severe pain and lameness with every movement. However, there are several ways you can help your dog live comfortably well into old age. And one of these is food.

Food is a big factor when it comes to a dogs health. To help you manage your pups condition better, weve put together a list of the best dog food for hip dysplasia as judged and tested by other pet parents like you.

Here at DogFood.Guide we have a dedicated mission to provide dog owners like you with well-researched information so they can provide the nutrition and health care towards their dogs.

Our readers rely upon our dog food articles, reviews and recall alerts that we took the time to research. We also routinely update and review our own reviews ensuring that any changes by manufacturers are brought to your attention.

DogFood.Guide is maintained by Mary Nielsen & her staff. Mary is an advocate and lover. She and her staff are passionate about animals and work hard to provide you with a wealth of information for you and your dog.

Our site is supported by our readers. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may earn a referral fee. This helps cover the cost of operating our free blog. Thanks for your support!

Selecting The Best Dog Food

The right dog foods will be able to help your dog manage his condition and pain better. Thats why it is so important to look carefully at the label. Keep the following in mind when you go shopping for the best dog foods for your pet:

1. Look for low calorie dog foods.

Its important to keep your dogs weight to a manageable one. More weight means more stress on his hip joints, which can worsen his symptoms and pain.

The best dog foods for this disease are ones that provide all the protein and other essential nutrients your pup needs while keeping him at a healthy weight.

2. No to additives, sugar, and salt.

Sugar can help your dog put on more weight. It, along with salt and additives, can also exacerbate inflammation. Some of the best dog foods for maintenance of hip dysplasia have as many natural ingredients as possible.

3. Watch out for too high levels of vitamin D and calcium!

This may sound confusing and strange. Both vitamin D and calcium promote healthy hips and healthy joints and are extremely helpful for dogs with hip dysplasia.

So why should you take care that you dont exceed? Well, it has been found that excessive levels of these two can harm your dog just as much as a deficiency of the two would.

4. Chondroitin and glucosamine are helpful.

Some of the best dog foods for joint health usually add these two supplements to their formulation. These two are excellent in supporting all types of joint problems and are effective in reducing pain.

5. Omega fatty acids are also important.

Omegas are great for supporting heart health and for making coats shinier. But they also reduce inflammation, especially in a dogs hips and joints.

1. Dogswell Happy Hips for Hip Joint Wellness
2. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Formula
3. Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Weight Management
4. Royal Canin Large Breed Senior Aging 8+
5. Dave's Pet Food Naturally Healthy Joint Formula
6. Redbarn Naturals Joint Health
7. Gentle Giants 90% Turkey

Best Dog Food For Hip Dysplasia

1. Dogswell Happy Hips for Hip Joint Wellness

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water Sufficient for Processing, Chicken Liver, Salmon

Guaranteed Analysis:

Dogswell Happy Hips is a canned dog food designed to support and sustain hip and joint health. Its packed with high-quality protein led by chicken and further boosted by the inclusion of salmon. Antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits combine to create a nutritious yet delectable stew.

It features glucosamine and chondroitin, and the minerals in this recipe are chelated for better nutrient absorption. There are no corn, grain, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors or preservatives in these, so its safe to give to sensitive pups too.

Pros

• High-quality animal protein ingredients
• Low calorie diet
• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin
• Smells like people food

Cons

• Costs a bit more than other brands
• Protein is a little low

Dogswell Happy Hips has 38 reviewers who gave it an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5, one of the highest ratings weve seen for a dog food made specifically for joint health.

According to several testimonies, dogs whove been placed on this diet are walking better, have more energy, and found relief from limping and pain.

There are only two negative reviews for this formulation. Two pet owners have said that the food did not sit well with their dogs digestive system.

We chose this dog food over others because it has one of the best ingredients weve seen. No low-quality ingredients, fillers, or anything artificial.

The food is also low in calories, which is something that breeds prone to arthritis and hip dysplasia need to maintain a healthy weight and reduce symptoms.

The rating given by consumers also highly affected our decision. Its an effective option for owners who are looking for relief from arthritis and hip dysplasia symptoms for their pets.

2. Blue Buffalo Large Breed Puppy Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley

Guaranteed Analysis:

Large breed puppies are prone to rapid growth, which can lead to skeletal disorders like hip dysplasia if not given the right nutrition specific to their breed size.

This dry dog food features ingredients that support a healthy development and growth in your biggie puppies.

The l-carnitine in this mixture is for turning fat into usable energy that puppies are always in need of. The omegas support heart health and reduce inflammation (not only for the joints but for your dogs skin too if he also has sensitivities).

Theres also a precise blend of other vitamins and minerals in the food courtesy of the brands exclusive LifeSource Bits.

Pros

• Contains DHA, L-carnitine, and omega fatty acids
• Uses chicken fat, fish meal, and flaxseed as natural sources of omegas
• Features the exclusive LifeSource Bits

Cons

• Caused gas and loose stool in a few dogs
• A little more expensive than other brands

659 reviewers gave this dog food a combined average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Consumers say the kibble may be a little more expensive than other brands but it does give value for money.

There are no garbage fillers because Blue only uses quality ingredients. Pups are growing big and strong on this food, coats are shiny, and the little big doggies love the flavor.

Some purchasers did say that their dogs experienced loose stools or gas with this product. One also mentioned that he would love for the brand to add glucosamine for the hip joints, because thats all the product needs to be perfect.

3. Purina Pro Plan Weight Management Large Breed

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Poultry By-Product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Corn Gluten Meal

Guaranteed Analysis:

Purina Pro Plans Weight Management dry dog food recipe helps adult large breeds maintain a healthy weight that wont put further stress on their joints. The food features a high percentage of protein but only a low percentage of fat to keep an ideal body condition.

Overweight or less than active dogs will get an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them maintain muscle mass even through weight loss. Theres natural prebiotic present (live) to support digestive and immune health too.

Pros

• Low fat and high protein diet
• Contains glucosamine, omega acids, EPA, and DHA
• Fortified with live probiotics

Cons

• Contains poultry byproduct meal
• Has corn gluten meal

161 customers gave this dog food for weight management an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The food, although lower in fat and calories, seem to satisfy a lot of dogs.

They do not seem hungry or seek other food in-between meals. According to many, it is a terrific meal to give dogs if you want them to lose weight yet maintain a high level of energy.

Several purchasers have complained about the amount of crushed food and residue inside the packages. A few were also disappointed that the food is in kibble form, unlike the recipes small and regular-sized counterparts for adult dogs, which feature a shredded chicken blend.

4. Royal Canin Large Breed Senior Aging 8+

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat

Guaranteed Analysis:

Large breed dogs are known for their powerful working abilities, but even these incredible canines need a lot of nutritional help as they age and mature.

Mature dogs who are aged eight years old and above often suffer from joint pains, cardiac issues, and digestive sensitivities. This recipe addresses all those issues.

This dry dog food recipe contains all the nutrients to support healthy joints in a senior dog to keep him moving and active even in his twilight years.

It also has the necessary amount of fiber to maintain stool quality and prevent digestion problems, and keep your senior dogs weight at a healthy level.

Pros

• Made specifically for dogs 56 to 99 lbs and aged 8+
• Has glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega acids
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Contains chicken byproduct meal
• Features low-quality grains

95% of consumers on Chewy.com highly recommend this Royal Canin recipe to other pet parents of large breed dogs. It has garnered an average score of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 92 reviewers who were happy that the dry dog food is specialized towards a specific age and size. Its effective in keeping a healthy weight and healthy joints and turning coats from dull to beautiful.

Among the negative reviews, one is a complaint about the hole in the middle of the kibble. The hole has been reported to cause the kibble to slide down and get stuck on the teeth.

There are also some complaints about the kibble being too hard and having to be watered down to soften them up.

5. Dave's Pet Food Naturally Healthy Joint Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken (Source Of Glucosamine And Chondroitin Sulfate), Water Sufficient For Processing, Beef, Liver, Beef Lungs

Guaranteed Analysis:

Daves Pet Food is a holistic formula specifically crafted for joint health. Real chicken as the first ingredient provides a good and natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints and keep your pet mobile and highly active.

The canned dog food recipe is in a gluten-free pate form, packed with lots of meat to keep your pups energy high. It features all the nutrients dogs need to manage arthritis and hip dysplasia, especially in older canines and larger breeds.

Pros

• Packed with meat
• No gluten, soy, corn, or wheat
• Made specifically to support joint health

Cons

• Uses low-quality grains
• Has carrageenan

37 reviewers combined to rate this dog food 4.6 out of 5 stars. According to a majority of the consumers, its a good quality dog food where you can actually see the ingredients.

Its a hit with picky eaters, smells delicious, and is effective in helping dogs with mobility problems to walk without the usual stiffness.

A couple of reviewers did say that their dogs turned their noses up at the food. While that is not really considered negative (dogs have different tastes, after all), we do have to point out that this dog food contains carrageenan, a highly divisive ingredient among pet owners and lovers for its possible negative effects on pets.

6. Redbarn Naturals Joint Health

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Peas, Dried Egg Product

Guaranteed Analysis:

Redbarn Naturals Chicken Pate Joint Health recipe is a grain-free and protein-rich diet that not only focuses on the joints but targets your dogs overall health as well.

It features superfoods, like green lipped mussels, which contain anti-inflammatory properties for joint support and healthy, itch-free skin. There are also dandelion greens to promote waste elimination.

There are no corn, grains, soy, carrageenan, or anything artificial so you are confident that you are feeding only the best. The ingredients list is short and limited so you can easily track each product in case your dog is also food sensitive.

Pros

• Limited ingredients
• Nothing artificial or possibly harmful
• High Protein content

Cons

• Goes out of stock easily
• A little more expensive than other brands

There are only 17 reviews on Chewy.com so far, but almost all of them are 5-star ratings. It has no negative reviews, and the lowest score is a lone 4-star rating. Dogs love the flavor and are often found licking their bowls clean.

It has a good consistency and the ingredients are all what youd call quality. However, it goes out of stock easily, possibly because of the demand.

7. Gentle Giants 90% Turkey

First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Liver, Dried Whole Eggs, Chickpeas

Guaranteed Analysis:

This Gentle Giants wet food formulation is made of 90% turkey, for dogs who need more protein in their diet.

Although its not listed as geared for joint support or giant breed dogs, the formulation can easily provide your ailing pet with all of the glucosamine, chondroitin, and fatty acids they require.

While turkey is the leading animal protein here, special mention goes to the inclusion of New Zealand green lipped mussels for providing the necessary nutrients needed to keep your dog perfectly mobile.

And because its meant to support overall health, it also contains dandelion greens for a properly working liver and digestive system.

Pros

• Made up of 90% turkey
• Contains only quality ingredients
• High protein content

Cons

• High in calories
• Dry texture

62 reviewers gave this formulation 4.5 out of 5 stars. Many of them were pleased with the nutritional info, quality ingredients, and the reasonable price of the product.

And since it has anti-inflammatory properties, its also good for maintaining a healthy skin in dogs suffering from joint issues, skin sensitivities, and allergies.

Among the few negative reviews are complaints about the dry texture of the food. Some customers also mentioned that the ingredients seem to be good but their dogs would not eat their meals.

What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia And What Causes It?

Hip dysplasia is a common condition in large and giant breeds, although sometimes it can occur in small breeds too.

In dogs with hip dysplasia, the ball and socket in the joints do not fit properly so they rub and grind against each other instead of sliding smoothly. Over time, this results in hip joint damage that leads to pain, irritation, and inflammation.

The development of hip dysplasia is due to several factors, but most often, it has to do with genetics. The disease is hereditary and is commonly seen in large breeds like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards as well as giant breeds like Saint Bernards.

A dogs age can also play a part as most dogs do not develop signs until they are older.

If not treated, dogs with hip dysplasia may also develop arthritis (osteoarthritis), a degenerative joint disease that can cause the breakdown of cartilage.

Signs Your Dog May Have Hip Joint Disease

Dogs can begin to show signs of hip dysplasia as young as four months. The symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the disease. If you see any of the following symptoms in your dog, have him checked by a vet immediately:

• Your dog may suddenly become inactive or show decreased mobility
• He may have a hard time rising, walking, or climbing up stairs
• He exhibits a swaying gait
• Noticeable loss of thigh muscle mass
• Lameness in the hind end
• Enlargement of shoulder muscles (compensating for lameness in the hind end)
• Limping
• Stiffness

Prevention And Management

A nutritious high quality pet food with the right nutrition profile is able to lower levels of pain related to arthritis and hip dysplasia. Your vet may also suggest the following:

• Weight management to reduce the stress on your pups hips
• Physical therapy
• Joint supplements
• Appropriate exercise
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Surgery as a last option

Not all cases of hip dysplasia and joint problems can be prevented, but you can minimize the risk by feeding your puppy with an appropriate diet to curb rapid and excessive growth that will lead to the disease.

Appropriate levels of exercise can also stave off obesity, which is another factor in the development of hip dysplasia. Without weight management, puppies to adult dogs can put on a lot of pounds, which will, in turn, put a lot of stress on their hip joints.

Your Dog Can Still Live A Full Life

Hip dysplasia may make life a little more difficult to live for your dog, but with proper nutrition, treatment, and lifestyle changes, your pet can still live a happy, comfortable, and healthy life. In fact, as long as your dog is well taken care of, he should live as long as other dogs of his breed do. Maybe even longer.