All animals’ joints consist mostly of bone, part of which is covered with a softer substance called cartilage. Other parts of the joint include muscles, which are the "active organs of motion", the tendon, which is a thick tissue that attaches muscles to bones, cartilage and other parts of the joint and then there are the ligaments, the strong bands that attach bones to each other. Joint stiffness occurs for several reasons. First, which can happen at any age, is the result of an injury to the bone, joint or surrounding tissue. The other one is the age factor. Aging puts stress on the joints and causes tension on bones, muscle tendons and ligaments. Muscle mass is necessary to help support good, healthy joints. There is a sack around each joint that contains joint fluid, which protects the bones so that they don't grind together when we move. As we age, the ends of our bones become uneven and grow spurs, which irritate the soft tissue, tendons and ligaments around the bones. • . Long-term studies show that excessive weight gain in large breed type puppies will increase the likelihood of bone problems. Therasticks Glucosamine Plus is used to supplement glucosamine, a popular joint support nutrient that the body naturally produces incase of joint problems in dogs. It forms the building blocks of cartilage and is important in holding water in the joints, thus keeping the joints lubricated. Herbalists use Green Lipped Muscles herb to support many parts of the body including bone, lung and liver. Many holistic doctors agree that a healthy liver is paramount in supporting the health of any portion of the body including the joints. This applies to most animals including dogs.  Visit our home page for great discounts on pet supplies and products.