If you love your dog and are always looking for ways to improve their quality of life, you've probably heard about the incredible benefits of collagen supplements for humans.
However, did you know that these supplements can be beneficial for dogs?
Of course, our pets need the same nutrients we do. Know these 7 benefits of collagen supplements that can help your four-legged companion's life.
Related blog: 5 Must-Have Supplements For Your Dog
#1 Gives your dog healthy skin
Because it's a type of protein, collagen helps keep your dog's skin healthy and nourished. It helps seal moisture in, keeping it plump and smooth.
If your dog is like mine and tends to get dry, flaky patches of skin on her belly or feet, collagen can help restore your dog's skin to its former glory. Since collagen helps with elasticity, it can help keep wrinkles at bay and reduce them!
Also Read: Dry and Cracked Dog Paws: How to Soothe and Treat?
#2 Supports joint function and mobility
Collagen is a protein high in glycine, which helps support joints and keeps them flexible. Since your dog's collagen levels decline with age, adding it to his diet can help combat stiffness and even signs of arthritis. In fact, in studies done on lab animals, supplements containing glucosamine or chondroitin have been shown to have positive effects on joint pain due to osteoarthritis.
Also read: Muscle Building for Dogs – A Complete Know-How.
#3 Improves your dog's immune system
Collagen helps fight disease by making your dog's immune system more efficient. It also helps prevent your dog from getting sick as often! If you have a pampered pooch who is constantly being fawned over or spends much time around other dogs, consider adding collagen to his diet.
#4 Great for digestive health
As dogs get older, their bodies naturally begin producing less collagen. However, a dog given a daily dose of collagen may be able to reverse some digestive issues caused by aging—something you'll probably appreciate as much as your pup will! Many veterinarians recommend adding collagen supplements to a senior dog's diet as they age. Give it a try and see how your pet responds.
Also Read: What Food is Good for Dog digestion?
#5 Has anti-aging properties
Growing older doesn't have to mean growing uglier. Along with a proper diet and plenty of exercise, collagen is a great way to keep your skin looking youthful. It also works wonders on your joints and bones. Collagen helps keep your tendons and ligaments healthy, making it easier to move around and less likely that you'll suffer from joint pain or arthritis.
#6 Promotes healthy skin, coat, and nails
When added to your dog's diet, collagen can help promote healthy skin, coats, and nails. It provides moisture retention capacity that keeps your dog from feeling dry or itchy on those dry days. Collagen delivers moisture but also helps protect against damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are nasty buggers in multiple forms like oxygen, nitrogen, etc.
#7 Keeps your dog calm and relaxed
One of our most important jobs as pet owners is to provide a safe, stress-free environment for our dogs. It's common knowledge that stress and anxiety are detrimental to your health, so why would we knowingly put them into situations where they feel upset or unsafe?
That's what makes ensuring your dog gets enough high-quality protein essential. When used as an additive in their food (especially when combined with other essential amino acids), collagen can help relieve stress and anxiety—keeping your dog happier and healthier.
Also Read: Why Is My Dog Not Eating His Food But Will Eat Treats?
That's a wrap!
It's important to note that while collagen can be beneficial for dogs, it should be used as a supplement and not a replacement for a balanced and nutritious diet. Before incorporating collagen or any new supplements into your dog's diet, it is recommended to consult with a veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for your pet's specific needs and health condition.