Dog Bones: Joint Support
My first love, my dog Jack, is turning 11 in February. As any dog owner and animal lover knows, we would do anything for our animals. We are their guardians here on earth. And, when I found a lump on his back 5 years ago, I started making all of his food. I haven’t looked back since. Yes, it’s time-consuming, more expensive, but it’s worth knowing exactly what he’s eating. Who the hell wants to eat hard kibble filled with preservatives every day of their life?!
Any dog will love these bones, but they are great for joint support as dogs start to age.
Healthy, Anti-Inflammatory Treats for Your (Senior) Dog
As our dogs age, it's important to support their health in every way possible—especially when it comes to what they eat. That’s why I’ve started making homemade treats for my almost 11!-year-old dog, who I see having a harder and harder time getting up after laying down for awhile. Not only do these treats taste great (according to him, at least), but they’re packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients that help with joint health, digestion, and overall well-being. Plus, it feels good knowing exactly what’s going into his snacks—no preservatives, no fillers, just wholesome goodness.
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients I use to keep my dog feeling his best:
1. Cinnamon: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich
Cinnamon isn’t just for your morning coffee. It’s a powerful spice with natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and discomfort in older dogs. Packed with antioxidants, cinnamon also supports healthy circulation, which can be especially beneficial for aging joints. The key is using Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “true cinnamon,” because it’s lower in coumarin, a compound that can be harmful to dogs in large quantities.
2. Turmeric: ancient anti-inflammatory root
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is one of the most well-researched anti-inflammatory ingredients. It’s great for reducing joint pain and swelling, making it a go-to for senior dogs dealing with arthritis or other age-related discomforts. In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric also has antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage. To maximize absorption, I always mix turmeric with a bit of healthy fat—like coconut oil or, in this case, the eggs in the recipe.
3. Blueberries: packed with antoxidants
Blueberries may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to supporting your dog’s health. Rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, blueberries help combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to aging and inflammation. They also support cognitive function, so they’re great for senior dogs who might be showing signs of mental decline. Plus, they’re low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for a healthy treat.
4. Sweet Potatoes: a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory vegetable
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re naturally anti-inflammatory, thanks to the abundance of antioxidants like beta-carotene (which turns into vitamin A in the body). Sweet potatoes also promote digestive health and help regulate your dog’s weight, which is key for preventing excess strain on aging joints. They’re gentle on the stomach and easy for your dog to digest, making them an ideal base for homemade treats.
5. Almond flour: gluten-free and easy on the digestive system
For dogs with grain sensitivities, almond flour is a great gluten-free option. It’s high in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, which supports skin and coat health. Almond flour is also easier on the digestive system compared to traditional wheat flour, making it an excellent choice for senior dogs with less-than-ideal digestion. It’s a simple ingredient that makes a big difference, especially when you’re trying to keep your dog’s nutrition as clean and balanced as possible.
6. Coconut oil: the healthy fat for joints and skin
Coconut oil is the perfect addition to these treats, thanks to its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easy for your dog to digest and turn into quick energy. Coconut oil is great for promoting healthy skin and coat, which can be especially beneficial for older dogs with dry or sensitive skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and swelling, supporting mobility in aging dogs. Plus, coconut oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great overall health booster.
6. Eggs: the protein powerhouse
Eggs are an essential ingredient in these treats, providing a high-quality source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They’re rich in amino acids, which support muscle repair and immune function, and are easy for dogs to digest. Eggs also provide healthy fats, which are important for maintaining energy levels and supporting brain health in senior dogs. Not to mention, they help bind all the ingredients together for the perfect treat texture.
Why Homemade?
Making homemade dog treats not only lets you control the ingredients but also ensures there are no artificial preservatives, fillers, or chemicals that could harm your dog over time. Plus, you can customize the treats to suit your dog’s unique tastes and dietary needs. For example, if your dog is allergic to a particular ingredient, you can swap it out for something else without worrying about hidden additives. And let’s be honest—watching your dog enjoy a treat you made just for them feels pretty rewarding.
These anti-inflammatory ingredients work together to help reduce joint pain, improve digestion, support cognitive health, and more. As my dog enters his senior years, I want him to feel as good as possible, and these homemade treats are one of the ways I can help make that happen.
Tip: You can also experiment with adding a bit of ginger for even more anti-inflammatory benefits, or coconut oil for added healthy fats. Both are gentle on the stomach and complement the other ingredients well.
So, next time your dog’s looking for a snack, skip the store-bought junk and bake up a batch of these homemade, healthy treats instead. Your dog will thank you—and his joints will too.
Ingredients:
2 cups almond flour (can use AP flour if your pup isn’t sensitive)
1 cup sweet potatoes (steamed + mashed)
handful of blueberries (mashed in with sweet potato)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp coconut oil
2 pasture-raised eggs
Directions
1. Pre-heat oven to 350.
2. Mix ingredients together in a bowl. Roll dough and use a cup to make circle shapes or any cookie cutters you have. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.
