arthritis in a boxer

What is the safest and best way to help my 6 year old boxer with her arthritis? I have been giving her glucosamine, chondroitin & MSN complex and she is eating Blue Seal dog food. She has trouble getting up in one back leg but after she is up and moving she seems better. Being a boxer she loves to zoom around the yard and then she gets soar later.:)

are you sure it's arthritis and not something else? has it been evaluated by a vet?

The vet didn't do xrays but she said the symptoms all fit.

You're on the right track with the glucosamine/MSN then. Other things to consider: continue with plenty of low-impact exercise (i.e. walking) to keep the muscles around the affected joints strong. I would avoid activities that involve jumping...so help the dog in/out of the car etc. Keep the weight down as much as possible; err on the side of "lean" and never allow the dog to become overweight-this is probably the best thing you can other than supplement. Provide soft, comfy places to sleep away from cold drafts. You may ask about getting an anti-inflamatory like Metacam to have on hand for the days where she's really stiff and uncomfortable.

Thanks for the advise. It was great and I will let you know how see makes out:thumbs up