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The only flaw dogs have is that they don't live long enough. But that doesn't stop us from doing all we can to extend their lives. I recently added MYOS Canine Muscle Formula to my dogs' diet to prevent muscle wasting, improve mobility, and hasten recovery after exercise. Originally, I ordered this supplement for my senior dog, but it's beneficial for all of my dogs.
I alternate between two specialized MYOS formulas, designed to address specific needs. This article provides an in-depth comparison of MYOS Canine Muscle Formula and MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula, highlighting their unique ingredients and benefits for dogs.
What is Muscle Wasting in Dogs?
Muscle wasting or muscle atrophy refers to a decrease in muscle mass and strength in dogs. It can be caused by lack of physical activity, aging, poor nutrition, medical issues, or injury. Muscle wasting can affect a specific muscle or group of muscles and result in weakness, lameness, and decreased mobility in dogs.
Identifying the underlying cause of muscle wasting in dogs is essential to provide appropriate treatment. A veterinarian can perform a thorough evaluation, including physical exams, blood tests, imaging studies, and muscle biopsies, to determine the cause of muscle wasting and develop a treatment plan. Treatment may involve addressing the underlying condition, providing physical therapy, dietary changes, and, in some cases, medication to help manage muscle wasting in dogs.
Muscle Wasting in Senior Dogs
I initially ordered MYOS for my senior dog to prevent muscle wasting and improve mobility. Although she eats a nutritious diet of fresh food and gets daily exercise, I knew I could do better because seniors may experience muscle wasting due to a combination of factors related to aging.
Sarcopenia: Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. As dogs age, they may experience a gradual decline in muscle mass due to changes in muscle protein turnover, reduced physical activity, and decreased muscle regeneration capacity.
Reduced activity levels: Arthritis and other joint issues may cause senior dogs slowing down as they age, leading to muscle disuse and atrophy. Lack of exercise and physical activity can contribute to muscle wasting in older dogs.
Changes in metabolism: Aging can affect metabolic processes in dogs, leading to alterations in protein metabolism and muscle protein synthesis. This can result in muscle loss and decreased muscle mass over time.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal imbalances in senior dogs, such as changes in growth hormone levels or altered thyroid function, can impact muscle health and contribute to muscle wasting.
Chronic diseases: Senior dogs are more likely to develop chronic health conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, cancer, or hormonal disorders, which can indirectly cause muscle wasting due to reduced mobility, inflammation, or metabolic changes associated with these diseases.
Nutritional deficiencies: Older dogs may have specific nutritional requirements that are not being met, such as inadequate protein intake or deficiencies in essential amino acids, vitamins, or minerals crucial for muscle health.
Reduced muscle regeneration: Aging can impair the ability of muscles to regenerate and repair themselves after injury or physical stress, leading to a gradual loss of muscle mass over time.
Although I'm taking steps to prevent these things from happening, I remain open to fresh food options that can better support my dogs, which is why I now alternate between MYOS Canine Muscle Formula and MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula.
MYOS Canine Muscle Formula
MYOS Canine Muscle Formula is a nutritional supplement designed to support dogs' muscle health. It is formulated to improve muscle function, lean muscle mass, and overall muscle health in dogs, particularly those experiencing muscle loss or weakness due to aging, illness, or injury. The supplement contains Fortetropin®, a proprietary bioactive protein complex derived from fertilized egg yolk that has been scientifically studied for its muscle-building and muscle-protecting properties.
Key features and benefits of MYOS Canine Muscle Formula may include:
Muscle support: MYOS Canine Muscle Formula is designed to help build and maintain healthy muscle tissue in dogs, promoting muscle strength, endurance, and overall physical performance.
Muscle recovery: The supplement can aid muscle recovery after exercise, injury, or surgery, supporting faster healing and rehabilitation.
Muscle maintenance: MYOS Canine Muscle Formula was developed to help prevent muscle wasting or atrophy in dogs by providing essential nutrients and proteins necessary for muscle growth and maintenance.
Joint support: Some formulations of MYOS Canine Muscle Formula may also contain ingredients that support joint health and mobility, contributing to overall musculoskeletal well-being in dogs.
MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula
MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula is a specialized nutritional supplement designed to support both dogs' muscle and joint health. This formula promotes muscle strength, function, and joint mobility in dogs, offering a comprehensive approach to supporting the musculoskeletal system.
Key features and benefits of MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula may include:
Muscle health support: The supplement is designed to help build and maintain healthy muscle tissue in dogs, promoting muscle strength, endurance, and overall physical performance. It may aid in preventing muscle wasting or atrophy and support muscle recovery after exercise, injury, or surgery.
Joint health support: Besides promoting muscle health, MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula contains green-lipped mussels, which support joint health and mobility. This can help improve joint function, reduce stiffness, and support overall joint comfort in dogs, especially those with age-related joint issues or arthritis.
Comprehensive support: This formula provides a holistic approach to supporting the musculoskeletal system in dogs by addressing muscle and joint health. It can help improve overall mobility, flexibility, and quality of life for dogs with muscle or joint issues.
High-quality ingredients: MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula may contain a blend of bioactive proteins, essential nutrients, and natural ingredients known for their benefits in promoting musculoskeletal health in dogs.
Comparison and Considerations
Targeted Support:
- MYOS Canine Muscle Formula focuses primarily on muscle health, aiding in muscle growth, strength, and recovery.
- MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula offers a dual-action formula that supports both muscles and joints, making it ideal for dogs needing comprehensive musculoskeletal support.
Ideal Candidates:
- MYOS Canine Muscle Formula is suitable for active dogs, performance athletes, aging pets, or those recovering from injuries requiring muscle support.
- MYOS Canine Muscle & Joint Formula may be more beneficial for senior dogs, breeds prone to joint issues, or those with existing joint discomfort needing additional joint support.
MYOS Canine Muscle Formula Review
I began using MYOS with my dogs, alternating between the original muscle formula and their joint formula. Initially, I mixed a scoop into their morning meals twice daily, decreasing to once daily after thirty days. My dogs didn't have an issue with the taste or texture.
Although I purchased MYOS for my senior dog, I gave it to all my dogs because of the benefits. After the first thirty days, I noticed improved mobility in my senior dog. That's all I needed to see to make MYOS a regular part of my dogs' diet, and I set up a recurring order.