5 reasons to give Collagen to your Dog
Before we share the benefits of supplementing your dog's diet with Collagen, we need to understand what it is and why dogs need it.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the main protein in all living beings, including dogs, making up about 30 percent of your dog’s body. It is found in their bones, skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Collagen is found in the digestive tract, bones, skin, blood vessels, and tendons. In fact 30% of the total protein in a dog's body is collagen.
Why do dogs need to supplement Collagen?
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.
A reduction 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.
5 Benefits to giving your dog Collagen:
1. Stabilise Joints & Prevent Injuries
Collagen makes up between 70 and a huge 90% of a dog’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments, so their joints depend 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 longer term.
2. Improve Age-Related Joint Pain
Age-related joint and soft tissue pain is something that most dogs will experience to some extent as they enjoy their senior years, just like their owners! 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. Aid Digestion
Collagen aids digestion by breaking down proteins and soothing the lining of the gut. It “seals and heals” the protective lining of the digestive tracts by 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.Promote Hair Growth, Strong Nails & A Healthy Coat
Dogs aren’t concerned wrinkles (lucky them!) 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. A great option for dogs with flaky skin and nails.
5. Inspire 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!
A simpler way to gain a good level of high quality Collagen is through Collagen treats. You can "kill 2 birds with one stone" a the saying goes, and let them enjoy a tasty treat knowing it is helping them in many ways whilst doing so.
Our Collagen Chews come in 3 sizes to suit both the size of the bite of your dog, and the amount of Collagen that will make a difference.
Available in with Chicken or Beef these treats are naturally low in fat too so no worrying about unnecessary calories too.
See here for Collagen treats and how to save money with our bundle packs of Collagen.