Why We Need to Look After Our Dogs in Winter: Keeping Their Joints and Bones Healthy
As winter settles in and temperatures drop, you may notice your dog may not be as eager to run around as they were in the warmer months. Maybe they’re showing signs of stiffness or limping, or they’re hesitating to go for walks in the cold. Just like us, dogs can feel the effects of cold weather—especially when it comes to their joints and bones. If your dog already suffers from conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia, the winter chill can make things even worse.
In this blog, we’ll dive into why winter is so tough on your dog’s bones and joints, and how you can help them stay comfortable and active. We’ll also explain how Proflax Bone & Joint Oil works with your dog’s body to provide the right support.
Why Winter Makes Joint Pain Worse for Dogs
1. Cold Weather Causes Stiffness and Joint Pain
When it’s cold, the body’s natural response is to restrict blood flow to the extremities to preserve heat. This can lead to stiffer joints, especially for older dogs or those with pre-existing conditions like arthritis. Research shows that cold weather exacerbates the symptoms of arthritis in both humans and animals by increasing inflammation and stiffness in the joints.
A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs with osteoarthritis showed more significant signs of discomfort and reduced mobility in colder weather. This is because the synovial fluid that naturally lubricates the joints thickens in the cold, which makes movement more difficult and painful.
If your dog is limping, moving slower, or reluctant to jump up on the couch, it's likely the cold weather is affecting their joints. But don’t worry—there’s plenty you can do to help them feel better.
2. Reduced Activity Leads to Muscle Weakness
Cold weather means fewer walks and less exercise for most dogs. While this may seem like a relief for your dog, it actually causes problems for their muscles and joints. Less movement leads to muscle atrophy, which means less support for the joints. Research shows that reduced physical activity contributes to the progression of osteoarthritis because weaker muscles place even more strain on already-damaged joints.
3. Senior Dogs Are More Vulnerable to Joint Problems
If you have an older dog, winter can be particularly hard on their bones and joints. As dogs age, bone density naturally decreases and cartilage in the joints starts to break down. This makes joints less flexible and more prone to pain. According to Veterinary Journal research, degenerative joint disease (DJD), commonly known as arthritis, is highly prevalent in senior dogs, and cold weather can worsen the symptoms.
Older dogs may also have less muscle mass to support their joints, further increasing their risk of developing painful conditions like arthritis.
How Proflax Bone & Joint Oil Can Help Your Dog Stay Comfortable
Proflax Bone & Joint Oil is a natural supplement specifically designed to support your dog’s joint health, reduce pain, and help them move more freely during winter. Here’s how the ingredients work together, with some scientific facts to back them up:
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Joint Lubrication
One of the key ingredients in Proflax Bone & Joint Oil is cold-pressed flaxseed oil, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids have been shown to help reduce inflammation and improve joint function.
A study in the Journal of Animal Science and Technology found that dogs supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids experienced significant reductions in joint pain and stiffness. Omega-3s help keep the synovial fluid in the joints properly lubricated, allowing for smoother and more comfortable movement. This is especially important during winter when synovial fluid tends to thicken in the cold, making joints feel stiff and painful.
2. Boswellia and Turmeric: Powerful Natural Anti-Inflammatories
Proflax Bone & Joint Oil also contains Boswellia (frankincense) and Turmeric, both of which have been scientifically proven to reduce inflammation in the joints.
Boswellia contains compounds known as boswellic acids, which inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes in the body. Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that Boswellia supplementation can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility in dogs with arthritis. It has also been shown to have a protective effect on cartilage, helping to slow the progression of degenerative joint disease.
Turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, is a well-known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Studies have demonstrated that curcumin can reduce joint inflammation and pain in dogs, making it an ideal natural remedy for arthritis and other joint conditions. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin also has bone-protective effects, which can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of bone-related issues.
3. Ginger for Better Circulation and Joint Support
Ginger is another key ingredient in Proflax Bone & Joint Oil. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that has been shown to improve blood circulation and support bone density. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that ginger extract significantly improved joint function and reduced pain in animals suffering from arthritis.
Ginger works by enhancing circulation to the joints, ensuring they receive the oxygen and nutrients needed to stay healthy. Improved circulation can also help reduce stiffness and discomfort associated with cold weather.
4. Gotu Kola and Liquorice Root for Cartilage and Ligament Health
Gotu Kola and Liquorice Root are both adaptogenic herbs that support your dog’s ligaments, cartilage, and circulation.
Gotu Kola is known for its ability to promote collagen production, which is crucial for healthy cartilage and ligaments. Research shows that Gotu Kola enhances tissue repair and supports the integrity of connective tissue, which is essential for maintaining healthy joints.
Liquorice Root has also been studied for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It works in synergy with the other herbs to reduce inflammation and support overall joint health.
How to Use Proflax Bone & Joint Oil
Using Proflax Bone & Joint Oil is easy. Shake the bottle for 10 seconds, then add the recommended amount (1ml per 2kg of body weight) to your dog’s food once a day. For more acute conditions, you can double the dose for up to 5 days to provide additional support.
Proflax Bone & Joint Oil is available in several sizes—100ml, 250ml, 500ml, and 1 liter—so you can choose the right size for your dog. Once opened, keep the oil refrigerated, and it will last up to 12 weeks.
Conclusion: Why Winter Care Is Essential for Your Dog’s Health
Winter doesn’t have to mean suffering for your dog. By giving them the right support, you can help them stay active and comfortable during the colder months. Proflax Bone & Joint Oil is a natural, scientifically backed solution to help reduce pain and inflammation, improve joint mobility, and support overall bone health. Whether your dog is a senior, recovering from surgery, or just dealing with some stiffness from the colder weather, products like our Bone & Joint Oil can make a huge difference.