Best Anti Inflammatory Food for Dogs — Buyer’s Guide, Comparison and Reviews

Long-term inflammation can play havoc with your dog’s mobility, thus quality of life. 

However, anti inflammatory food for dogs could be the answer. Taking a natural approach to joint support, these foods can benefit dogs from all walks of life. From senior or working dogs, canines with joint or hip conditions through to proactive care for dog’s who are prone to such complaints.

Top Anti Inflammatory Dog Food Comparison Table

The Best Anti Inflammatory Food for Dogs — Buying Guide

The Best Anti Inflammatory Dog Foods

How Anti-Inflammatory Food Supplements for Dogs Can Help

What Dogs Could Benefit From an Anti-Inflammatory Dog Diet?

The Best Anti Inflammatory for Dogs Supplements

Conclusion

Foods That Reduce Inflammation in Dogs Frequently Asked Questions

Top Recommended Anti Inflammatory Food for Dogs

VetIQ Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs 

This joint-supporting anti-inflammatory supplement is a great option if you’re after something to help keep your pup mobile. It contains 600 mg of glucosamine as well as omega-3s, which all help to lubricate the joints and cartilage, especially as your pup gets older.

• Contains 600 mg of glucosamine. 
• Keep unwanted conditions at bay.
• Large pack quantity – 180.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

The Best Anti Inflammatory Food for Dogs — Buying Guide

Most of us associate inflammation with swelling, soreness, or pain — a short-term complaint that’s the body’s way of recovering from something like an injury or an infection. 

However, inflammation can also be a long-term problem, and that’s not good. Chronic inflammation can lead to various illnesses, including joint and hip problems, which can lead to stiffness and lack of mobility if left unchecked, or worse.

While meds prescribed by your vet can help manage it, anti-inflammatory food for dogs can also be a natural way to relieve the issue.

The Best Anti Inflammatory Dog Foods

Want to know what to feed your dog to keep inflammation at bay? Read our anti inflammatory food list for dogs:

Fatty Fish

Salmon and krill are powerhouses when it comes to anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in omega-3, these good-for-you fatty acids help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including joints. Hence, if your dog suffers from arthritis or hip dysplasia, it’s an excellent addition. Salmon also provides high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Blueberries

Don’t be deceived by the size of these berries — they’re mighty and packed with antioxidants. Blueberries combat inflammation and oxidative stress due to the flavonoids that they contain. Anthocyanins, in particular, have anti-inflammatory effects.

Adding a handful to your dog’s normal food, or even using them as a treat, can provide a flavor-packed and nutritious boost to their diet.

Turmeric

Turmeric has been used in traditional medicine for many years, and this is because of its positive effects on inflammation. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been extensively studied for its inflammation-reducing abilities, and alleviating symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis and gastrointestinal issues in dogs. 

However, it should also be noted that turmeric on its own isn’t easily absorbed by the body — so it’s best taken in supplement form.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits for dogs. 

These root vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, vitamins, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation. The fiber content in sweet potatoes also supports a healthy gut, which plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation throughout the body.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and cruciferous broccoli have earned their superfood status for both humans and dogs. These veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help combat inflammation and promote overall health. 

Adding small amounts of finely chopped steamed greens to your dog’s meals can provide them with essential nutrients while supporting their immune systems and reducing inflammation.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs), particularly lauric acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote a healthy skin and coat. 

That said, you shouldn’t dish out too much, excessive amounts can lead to weight gain.

Green-Lipped Mussels

Scientifically known as Perna canaliculus, green-lipped mussels are a type of shellfish native to New Zealand and are well known for reducing inflammation. They’re a rich source of antioxidants, omega-3s, and glucosamine and chondroitin — all of which support your dog’s health and mobility. Plus, they boost digestive health and reduce free radicals in your dog’s body. 

They can be added to your dog’s food using a freeze-dried powder or even as part of a joint supplement, like Pet Honesty Hip & Joint or YuMOVE Joint Support .

How Anti-Inflammatory Food Supplements for Dogs Can Help

While the best source of nutrients for your dog is a well-balanced diet, supplementing their food with anti-inflammatory supplements can help as well as offer additional benefits. Here’s how:

• Convenient Nutrition Boost: Supplements provide an easy way to ensure your dog gets extra nutrients to help reduce inflammation.
• Tailored Dosage: If your dog’s inflammation is severe, they may require a substantial amount to make a difference. This may not be achievable through food alone. Hence, a supplement could fill the gap.
• Dosage Control: With the dosage clearly listed on the ingredients label, you know how much you’re giving your dog.
• Picky Eaters: Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of anti-inflammatory foods, making supplements an easier option.
• Enhanced Absorption: Certain ingredients, such as turmeric, can’t be easily absorbed into the body alone — it needs activators, like black pepper (piperine) to be effective. Supplements can ensure that these combinations are correct and balanced.

Talk To Your Vet 

If you’re contemplating supplements for anti-inflammatory support, chat with your vet before doing so. This applies to any dietary regime changes you make. In short, you want to be sure it’s the right course of action to help your dog, not hinder.

What Dogs Could Benefit From an Anti-Inflammatory Dog Diet?

If you’re wondering whether anti-inflammatory supplements/foods are a good shout for your pup — take a look below to see which canines can find them beneficial:

• Dogs with hip dysplasia.
• Canines suffering from arthritis.
• Senior dogs.
• Working dogs who have a demanding daily job.
• Breeds who are prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia or arthritis — such as Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Labradors.

The Best Anti Inflammatory for Dogs Supplements

The VetIQ Hip and Joint is our favorite anti inflammatory dry dog food. It’s made in a chew format, so you can offer it like a treat. And, it’s chicken flavored, which should appeal to most doggys’ taste buds.

This supplement also helps in supporting healthy joint cartilage as well as movement due to the 600mg of glucosamine it contains. The omega-3 from fish oil and krill also helps with lubricating your pup’s joints and offering pain relief. 

What’s more, for all-around mobility support, you’ll find MSM for muscle health and 600 mg manganese, which boosts collagen production — keeping connective tissue in good condition.

Pros

• Helps lubricate joints.
• Flavor most dogs will like. 
• Assists in pain relief.

Cons

• Chews are on the harder side.

Containing the anti inflammatory for dogs of turmeric (300 mg per serving) — these crunchy tablets from Amazing Nutritionals aim to alleviate joint inflammation as well as help heart and liver function, and improve digestion. 

Suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages, these tabs have a liver and bacon flavor. Hence, your dog shouldn’t need too much encouragement to take them. That said, all dogs are individuals, so if yours is a picky eater, you can crush them up and sprinkle over food. 

Formulated with minimal preservatives, Amazing Nutritionals suggests best results when taken with food to allow time for the body to absorb the nutrients. 

Pros

• Extracted from natural turmeric root. 
• Great for sensitive stomachs.
• No by-products.

Cons

• Lacks piperine for maximum nutrient absorption.

Doggie Dailies is a good shout for doggies with dental issues — they’re chewable treats with a soft cookie-like texture.

The brand’s Hip & Joint formula includes seven active ingredients, including — glucosamine (100 mg per chew), MSM (100 mg per chew), chondroitin (50 mg per chew), and omega-3 (13 mg/13 mg per chew) from salmon oil and cod liver oil. 

All of the above are designed to support your dog’s joints, mobility, and flexibility. As well as promoting a healthy digestion and absorption of the nutrients they need. 

These chews are suitable for all breeds from around 6 months old, so you can start your support from an early age. And, they’re chicken flavored (peanut butter also available) — a popular taste with most canines. 

Pros

• Also contains yucca, hydrochloric acid, and CoQ10. 
• Palm-oil-free recipe.
• Includes anti-inflammatory foods — sweet potato and coconut oil.

Cons

• Can easily crumble.

If you’re looking for an anti inflammatory for dogs that isn’t going to hurt your pocket, NaturVet’s Senior Wellness Aches and Discomfort could be worth a look. 

This budget-friendly supplement helps alleviate pain and discomfort in your dog mainly after daily exercise. It does this with a unique blend of glucosamine (250 mg) derived from shellfish, and yucca (90 mg) — both associated with the treatment of inflammation in the joints.

And, while it’s part of the brand’s senior line-up, dogs of any age experiencing joint troubles can use it.

Pros

• Geared for everyday exercise-related aches & pains. 
• Suitable for adult dogs and seniors.
• NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) certified.

Cons

• Tabs are pretty large, smaller dogs may struggle.

Pet Honesty has taken a natural approach with its blend of ingredients. Its chews contain glucosamine (500 mg) from shellfish, green-lipped mussels (100 mg), turmeric (300 mg), omega-3 from cod liver oil (100 mg), and chondroitin (160 mg) sourced from beef. 

All are chosen for their ability to either reduce joint pain, or support tissue and cartilage production. Thus, increasing movement thanks to easing stiff joints — allowing your dog to stay active in their golden years.

Available in a range of flavors, such as duck, chicken, bacon, and even peanut butter! So, whatever your dog fancies, there is a strong possibility of finding a taste they will love.

Pros

• Contains 12 natural anti inflammatory for dog ingredients.
• Helps with stiffness and joint mobility.
• Wheat and corn-free, and no added sugar.

Cons

• Some dogs experience digestive complaints.

Is your dog in the five to 7 year age bracket? YuMOVE’s hip and joint supplement for dogs is geared towards canines in their pre-senior years for a proactive approach to lowering inflammation. 

YuMOVE contains a patented proprietary blend called ActivEase, which includes green-lipped mussels (150 mg) for chondroitin and omega-3, plus plant-based glucosamine (250 mg) and hyaluronic acid (1.5 mg) — all picked to help with healthy joints, reduce stiffness, support joint structure and help your pup’s mobility. 

What’s more, the antioxidants and vitamins of C and E back up the movement-improvement formula. And, the brand states that it has also been proven scientifically to work within six weeks of taking the product.

Pros

• Supports your pup’s joint structure. 
• Contains a patented anti-inflammatory blend — ActivEase.
• Tasty tablet.

Cons

• Glucosamine comes from corn — may not be suitable for all dogs.

This supplement will help with joint, digestive issues, and immune support — targeting a variety of different issues with one chew. Its main active ingredients are coconut oil and turmeric, both of which help to support anti-inflammatory issues. 

Available in two flavors — duck or bacon, making it more favorable to dogs. Zesty Paws also contains BioPerine, an organic extract that improves the bioavailability of turmeric, so your dog gets the most out of the spice.

Pros

• Duck or bacon flavor. 
• Helps with joint and digestive issues.
• Turmeric is the main ingredient.

Cons

• Contains palm oil.

Conclusion

Choosing the best anti-inflammatory foods for your dog is a great way to improve their overall health and well-being. From omega-3-rich salmon to antioxidant-packed blueberries, each of these nutritional superfoods offers unique benefits in managing inflammation and supporting our canine companions as they age.

Yet, supplements are also a great way of getting a variety of these anti inflammatory dog foods into our four-legged friend — with little fuss.

Foods That Reduce Inflammation in Dogs FAQs

What Is the Best Natural Anti-Inflammatory for Dogs?

Some of the best anti inflammatory foods you can give your dog include:

• Leafy greens.
• Broccoli.
• Carrots.
• Pumpkin.

What Is the #1 Anti-Inflammatory Food?

The number one anti-inflammatory food you can give your dog is oily fish — such as salmon, krill, or tuna.

What Are the Worst Dog Anti Inflammatory Foods?

If you’re trying to avoid inflammation in your pup, there are some foods that you should avoid. For example:

• Grains.
• Corn.
• Omega-6.
• Fatty proteins.
• Foods with added sugars, salts, or artificial additives.

What Are the Side Effects of Anti Inflammatory Supplements on Dogs?

Most dogs can take anti-inflammatory supplements with no side effects, while others may suffer from minor irritations. For example, digestive upset or a mild allergic reaction.

How Can I Treat My Dog’s Inflammation Naturally?

There are loads of natural remedies for treating inflammation in dogs, if this is what you’re after. These include turmeric, omega-3, and ginger to name a few.

What Can I Give My Dog for Joint Pain?

Anti inflammatory food for dogs — such as the natural foods above — or supplements offer a holistic approach. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) are typically prescribed by vets, but acupuncture, and physical therapy are also avenues to consider.