Keep Those Joints Jumping: How Raw Feeding Supports Your Dog’s Mobility

When joint problems strike, even simple things—like hopping onto the couch or chasing a ball—can become a challenge.

The good news? You can help protect your dog’s joints before serious problems start, and one of the easiest ways is through what you feed them. A fresh, balanced raw diet can do wonders for joint health and overall vitality.

In this blog, we’ll look at what puts dogs at risk for joint issues, signs to watch out for, and how raw feeding can help your pup stay active, comfortable, and full of life.

Common Risk Factors for Joint Issues in Dogs

1. Large Breeds, Big Risks
   Big dogs like Labradors, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are incredible companions, but their size means extra pressure on their joints. They benefit from joint-supporting nutrients early in life to keep those big bodies moving easily.
2. Ageing Gracefully
   As dogs get older, cartilage begins to wear down and joints can become stiff. A nutrient-rich diet filled with natural anti-inflammatories and joint-building compounds can make a big difference in their comfort and mobility.
3. Carrying Extra Weight
   Every extra pound adds extra strain to a dog’s joints. Raw feeding helps maintain a healthy weight naturally—no fillers or processed carbs—just nutrient-dense protein that builds lean muscle and energy.
4. Underlying Health Concerns
   Conditions like Lyme disease or injuries can trigger inflammation in the joints. A fresh, whole-food diet supports your dog’s immune system, helping them heal and stay strong.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Struggling

Keep an eye out for these common signs of joint discomfort:

• Limping, stiffness, or difficulty standing up
• Hesitation to run, jump, or climb stairs
• Decreased activity or interest in play
• Irritability or mood changes
• Muscle loss, especially around the hips or shoulders

If you notice any of these symptoms, check with your vet—but remember, diet and lifestyle are key parts of recovery and prevention.

Why Raw Feeding Supports Joint Health

Raw feeding goes beyond just “natural food.” It provides your dog with nutrients in their most absorbable form—helping their body repair, protect, and thrive.

🐟 Omega-3 Power from Fish
Fresh oily fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and keep joints lubricated. It’s a simple, natural way to ease stiffness and discomfort.

🍗 Natural Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Duck feet, chicken feet, and beef trachea are loaded with natural joint-supporting compounds. Dogs love the crunch—and they absorb these nutrients better from real food than from synthetic supplements.

🍖 Bone Broth Magic
Bone broth is full of collagen, amino acids, and minerals that help cushion joints and support cartilage repair. Plus, it’s soothing, hydrating, and great for digestion.

🌿 Anti-Inflammatory Boost
Ingredients like turmeric, leafy greens, and berries naturally fight inflammation. Adding them to your dog’s meals can help protect joints and promote healing.

🥩 Lean Protein for Healthy Weight
Raw diets are high in quality protein and naturally low in unnecessary carbohydrates. This balance helps your pup maintain an ideal weight—reducing pressure on the joints while boosting strength and energy.

Boosting Joint Health with Smart Supplements

Even with a well-balanced raw diet and plenty of movement, sometimes our canine companions can benefit from a little extra support. Here are two supplements worth considering when you’re focused on joints and mobility.

Dorwest MoveWellia® 

This is a joint care supplement specifically designed for dogs that are showing signs of stiffness or slower movement. It uses a blend of natural ingredients to support comfort and mobility.

• Key ingredients include glucosamine hydrochloride (which cushions joints), chondroitin sulphate (for healthy cartilage), and boswellia (a herbal anti-inflammatory derived from Boswellia serrata) with 90 % boswellic acids.

• Also includes celery seed, vitamin C, zinc & hyaluronic acid—each supporting different aspects of joint structure and mobility.

Dorwest Cod Liver Oil

This supplement focuses more on oils & vitamins that help with joint function, skin, coat and bone health—and it pairs nicely with a high quality raw diet.

• It’s rich in marine-based omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA), which play a big role in reducing inflammation and supporting mobility.

• Also high in vitamins A & D, which help bone strength, calcium absorption and general wellness—factors that matter for joints too.

Tumeric Capsules 

Turmeric has become one of the most popular natural remedies for both people and pets—and for good reason. Turmeric tablets combine curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) with piperine (from black pepper) to boost absorption and effectiveness.

Curcumin is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that helps reduce stiffness, protect joints from further damage, and support overall comfort. It’s also rich in antioxidants, helping the body fight the effects of ageing.

The Bottom Line

Joint issues don’t have to mean the end of playtime. Whether your dog is a growing pup, an active adult, or a senior companion, the right nutrition can help keep their joints strong and their tails wagging.

Feeding a balanced, raw diet gives your dog what nature intended—fresh, whole food packed with nutrients that support mobility, comfort, and long-term wellness.

Here’s to more walks, more zoomies, and more happy years together.

Playful jack Russell jumping in grass