Collagen is the main structural protein found in skin and connective tissues like joints, tendons, cartilage and ligaments. In fact, 30% of the total protein in a dog’s body is collagen. It determines the strength and elasticity of their hair, bones, nails, and teeth. As dogs age, their capacity to produce collagen diminishes making them more susceptible to injuries, painful conditions of the bones and joints, and poor skin and coat health.
The depletion of healthy collagen in the body is a natural part of the aging process, but that does not mean that it is gone forever. Lost collagen can be replaced through supplementation, and the earlier you begin providing additional collagen in your dog’s diet, the more likely you are to stave off problems.
Here are 5 great reasons to start giving your dog collagen today.
1. It Stabilizes Joints & Prevent Injuries
Collagen makes up 70 to 90% of a dog’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments, so the integrity of their joints is absolutely dependent upon its presence. As muscles and connective tissues loosen and become more brittle, dogs become susceptible to injuries like torn cruciate ligaments, patellar subluxations, and elbow and hip dysplasia. Adding collagen to your pup’s diet will improve her joint health, helping to prevent these injuries.
2. It Improves Age-Related Joint Pain
Age-related joint and soft tissue pain is something that most dogs will experience to some extent as they navigate their senior years. Collagen loss in the joints that occurs during aging plays a major role in arthritis, degenerative disc disease and tendonitis, three of the most common causes of pain in senior dogs.
3. It Aids in Digestion
Collagen aids in digestion by breaking down proteins and soothing the lining of the gut. It “seals and heals” the protective lining of the gastrointestinal tract by helping to form connective tissue and infusing the whole system with healing amino acids. Glycine is one of the many amino acids contained in collagen. It has been shown to have soothing properties that help promote an overall healthier, less agitated digestive system for your dog.
4.It Promotes Hair Growth, Strong Nails & A Healthy Coat
Dogs aren’t concerned about crow’s feet or full, pouty lips, but collagen is important when it comes to their appearance. 70% of the protein in your dog’s skin is collagen. It is responsible for providing a healthy, moisturized dermis; soft, shiny coat; and strong, powerful nails that do not split or crumble as they grow.
5. It Tastes Great & Inspires A Healthy Appetite
Many cosmetics aimed at humans boast their “collagen complexes” but collagen is most effective when consumed through food or supplements. Dairy, eggs and lean meats are excellent sources of collagen protein – all of which dogs love!
But the most collagen-rich food source is the gelatin that forms when nutrients are extracted from the ingredients in bone broth. When hot, bone broth should be a liquid and harden into a gel-like solid as it cools. That gelatinous texture comes from the whopping doses of collagen contained within this super food. Think of it as meat-flavored Jell-O that dogs adore!
If you can’t make your own, try a bone broth supplement instead. Project Paws™ Premium Grade Bone Broth Powder is a wholesome, convenient way to introduce more collagen into your pet’s diet. It’s as simple as sprinkling a scoopful onto your pet’s meal every day! They’ll love it plus you’ll be happy that your purchase not only nourished your dog but also provided meals for shelter dogs.
H/T to Dogs Naturally Magazine & MyProtein.com
via Whisker Therapy