For dog lovers, nothing can be more painful than to watch your pet agonizing in pain and unable to move. Even the slightest movement can produce a sharp pain that can be felt right through our pet’s spinal column. They become fully agitated and some can be quite aggressive; not that it’s their fault, but rather they’re already frustrated at the experience of pain and immobility. Even before joint problems set in, it is important for dog owners to look after the welfare of their pets. Joint health supplements may not be the cure for these canine conditions, but these can sure help provide for healthier and more stable articulations.
Sadly, the market is littered with supplements for dog joints that do nothing to prevent canine joint problems. It is thus, imperative that we choose only those that have been proven effective. To give you a headstart, we’ve conducted research into the 10 best joint supplements for dogs. Hopefully, these will give you an idea of what to give to your beloved pooch.
The 13 Top Rated Joint Supplements for Dogs
| Editor's Picks | Product Name | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Cosequin DS Plus MSM Chewable Joint Supplement | Check Price on Chewy | 4.7 |
| Most Delicious | Zesty Paws Advanced Mobility Bites | Check Price on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best for Large Dogs | Nutramax Laboratories Dog Joint Supplements | Check Price on Amazon | 4.8 |
| Best Soft Chews | Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best Liquid | Liquid Health K9 Glucosamine Joint Supplement | Check Price on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best for All Life Stages | Petlab Co. Joint Chews for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.3 |
| Best Human Grade | PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint Soft Chews for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best Hemp Treats | FurroLandia Hemp Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Vet Recommended | VETIQ Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best for Active Dogs | VetriScience Hip & Joint Support for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.7 |
| Best Holistic | Vet's Best Aches+Pains Chewable Tablets Joint Supplement | Check Price on Chewy | 4.4 |
| Best Powder | Infinite Pet Supplement for Dogs | Check Price on Amazon | 4.3 |
| Best High-Glucosamine | VetPro Dog Hip and Joint Supplement | Check Price on Amazon | 4.5 |
The Cosequin DS Plus remains one of the most trusted supplements for dog joints primarily for its excellent combination of three powerful ingredients that are known to improve joint health, facilitate cartilage remodeling and regeneration, and alleviating some of the symptoms associated with arthritis. It contains methylsulfonylmethane or MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin, all working to provide your dog with optimum joint health. The formulation comes in chewable tablet form so administering it to pets shouldn’t be that difficult.
Read our in-depth Nutramax Cosequin DS Plus with MSM Review.
Per tablet contains 600 milligrams of glucosamine derived from shellfish, 300 milligrams of chondroitin sulfate derived from pork cartilage, and 250 milligrams of MSM
With 3 milligrams of manganese
Chewable tablet formulation
- Brand: Nutramax Laboratories
- Model: COSDSCH
- Weight: 10.4 Ounces
Chewable formulation ensures easier administration
Exceptional levels of joint-friendly substances per tablet; higher than most brands
Recommended by most veterinarians
A little bit expensive
May contain a few artificial flavoring
For dogs that need a little extra boost of mobility, Zesty Paws present their Glucosamine Hydrochloride supplement for premium hip and joint support. They’re suitable for all dog sizes, from the Toy Poodle to the Great Pyrenees Mountain Dog. With 400mg of optimized MSM per chewable supplement, your dog will be able to flex their muscles like they’re an energetic puppy again. They also come in several delicious flavors, including Bacon, Chicken, and Duck.
Formulated with Vitamin C and Vitamin E to support the joints and connections tissues of your dog’s body.
Includes Chondroitin Sulfate – a compound that supports cartilage, connective tissues, and joint function.
Gives muscular support to your dog’s entire body while promoting resilience.
- Brand: Zesty Paws
- Weight: 15.2 Ounces
Supports mobility in dogs of all ages with a combination of Glucosamine, MSM, and Chondroitin.
MSM in this product is optimized using a purifying distillation process.
The brand is part of the National Animal Supplement Council and has gained the council’s seal of approval as a trusted brand with great products.
Suitable for all dog breeds and sizes.
No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Supplement crumbles easily, which can make it difficult to feed it to your dog.
Consider Dasuquin as Cosequin but with exceptional anti-osteoarthritis properties, making it one of the most trusted brands of arthritis medicine for dogs. The only difference between Dasuquin and Cosequin is the inclusion of Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables or ASUs which have been well-documented to play an important role in the management of osteoarthritis. This suggests that Cosequin is primarily used as a preventative while Dasuquin is best used on dogs with existing osteoarthritis or any other similar health problems. It also comes as soft chews making it easy to administer.
Each chew comes with 900 mg of glucosamine, 350 mg of chondroitin, and 800 mg of MSM
Enriched with soybean, rosemary extract, and avocado
- Brand: Nutramax Laboratories
- Model: DASULMSMSC84
- Weight: 1.18 Pounds
Contains substantially higher concentrations of joint-friendly substances than most brands
Doesn’t include other ingredients that may impact the principal mechanism of action of joint health active ingredients
More expensive than other brands
One of the advantages of giving your pet the Advanced Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs in soft chew form is that it contains two additional ingredients that may not be found in other products. The Doggie Dailies contain Co-Enzyme Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid. CoQ10 is important for its antioxidant activity while HA is best known for improving the production of synovial fluid which effectively lubricates the entire joint capsule. Without the synovial fluid, pain and swelling will be more severe, leading to immobility. There are vitamins, micronutrients, and minerals, too, that help promote overall joint health.
Each chew contains 100 mg each of glucosamine and MSM and 50 mg chondroitin
With added yucca shidigera, hyaluronic acid, and coenzyme Q10
With natural ingredients including chicken liver, cooked chicken, flaxseed, salmon oil, egg, cod liver oil, vegetables, and rice bran
Comes with 2 free e-books on dog care
- Brand: Doggie Dailies
- Weight: 1 Pounds
All-around support for health of the joints, skin, and heart
Addition of Co-Q10 and hyaluronic acid for greater health benefits
Uses only premium, natural ingredients
Comes in soft chewable formulation for easier administration
Greater value than most brands
Slightly lower levels of glucosamine and chondroitin than other brands
A purified supplement that can be easily added to your dog’s water, food, or placed on a spoon with a treat for your dog to lap at. The ingredients in this liquid promote joint health and can also aid in the prevention of arthritis in young dog breeds that are prone to the condition. As a liquid joint supplement, K9 Glucosamine works to support joint health using the purest form of sulfur. Sulfur helps build the best structure possible for all of the joint cartilage in your dog’s body.
Uses 99.9% pure grade MSM which has been distilled and purified to produce the purest form of sulfur possible for this supplement
Combines five supplements in one product for an optimized liquid joint supplement
Liquid form for easier application
Can help prevent arthritis in many dogs who are genetically inclined to suffer from joint pain
- Brand: Liquid Health
- Weight: 32 ounces
Great value – 1 teaspoon is just 0.16 fluid ounces, which means you could get 200 servings from one bottle for a dog under 10 pounds
MSM in this product is tested for lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury to ensure your pet’s safety
High quality Glucosamine
Optimized and purified MSM
Must be refrigerated after the product has been opened
Not flavored, which some dogs may not appreciate
Joint medicine for dogs is a saturated market, so it’s best to do a little research to find the right supplement to help your dog’s joint disorders. When you’re looking for a supplement suitable for all dogs of all ages, Petlab Co. offers their solution in the form of their joint care chews, which are suitable for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. Help promote a more active lifestyle for your dog, no matter their age. These delicious, bone-shapes chews are perfectly flavored to entice your pup into eating one a day without any complaints. Even picky dogs love them!
Commits to joint care by enhancing joint and bone health.
Uses turmeric to target discomfort and help maintain joint mobility
Targets everyday stiffness in the joints of all dogs, no matter their age
Supports joint flexibility and strength
- Brand: Petlab Co.
- Weight: 5.61 ounces
Compatible with other chews from the same brand, including those that are formulated for digestive health
Contains omega fatty acids in the form of salmon oil, which can ease joint discomfort
Supports hip and joint flexibility through the use of green-lipped mussels as an ingredient in the product
Pricey supplement at more than $1 per chew
If you don’t like chewable tablets for your dog, then the Particular Paws Glucosamine powder should be an intelligent choice. This product comes with the 3 essential substances for optimum joint health with the addition of hyaluronic acid for synovial fluid consistency and vitamins C and E for added antioxidant effects. The overall result is an improvement in the symptoms of joint problems as well as protection of overall joint mobility.
Each teaspoon contains 250 mg of glucosamine sourced from shellfish, 250 mg of MSM, and 100 mg of chondroitin from porcine sources
Formulation is enriched with proprietary enzymes and essential fatty acids
Contains green lipped mussel and hyaluronic acid
Includes yucca schidigera, boswellia serrate, and vitamins C and E
Comes in powdered form
- Brand: PetNC Natural Care
- Model: 27591
- Weight: 7.2 Ounces
Powder formulation allows for easier mixing with pet’s food
Addition of vitamins, enzymes, and essential fatty acids helps promote better all-around health and not just for the bones
Uses only all-natural ingredients for improved pet safety
May be more expensive since it is in powdered form
Has the possibility of recommended dose not being consumed
For an all-natural product that’s sure to give your dog amazing joint care, FurroLandia offer Hip and Joint Hemp Treats. Hemp has been used in plenty of human food products and supplements for years now, and all-natural products are making a splash in a range of markets. While the Glucosamine in this product can reduce joint pain and help arthritic dogs, the hemp has a natural calming effect. Dogs will joint disease and other related issues may want to be more energetic than their body can handle, so pet parents can rest easy knowing that their furry friend will benefit from better mobility and a calmer countenance.
All-natural treats containing hemp, turmeric, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin
170 chews per pot
Specially formulated to restore joint health, reduce pain, and boost mobility
Also supports your dog’s skin and their coat, all while targeting joint care needs
- Brand: FurroLandia
- Weight: 13.76 ounces
Completely natural product
No wheat, corn, sugar, or preservatives
Non-GMO
Bacon flavored, which your dog will surely appreciate more than tasting hemp!
Targets joints, skin, and coat
Some dogs are sensitive to hemp
With a triple-action formula that targets cartilage, joints, and muscles, VETIQ’s Hip and Joint chewable supplement is sure to dog hip and joint pain. Healthy cartilage is a must-have for all dogs, whether they are large breed dogs or small. Using Omega fatty acids, Glucosamine, MSM, and krill, these soft chews promote complete joint health and can help your pup produce healthy cartilage. Increase the mobility of your dog with these veterinarian recommended supplements.
Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients
Eases joint stiffness caused by normal, everyday activities that dogs get up to
600mg Glucosamine supplements with 210mg MSM and 210mg krill
Maintains muscles, lubricates joints, supports cartilage
- Brand: VETIQ
- Weight: 1.42 pounds
Contains Omega-3 to look after your dog’s joints while the supplement also targets the cartilage and muscles
MSM supports healthy connective tissues
Perfect for dogs with everyday stiffness
Natural chicken flavor
Soft, chewable supplement
Dogs with sensitive stomachs may have issues with these supplements
Intended to one of the best dog vitamins for joint health the Glyco-Flex III features Vitamins C and E in addition to MSM and glucosamine plus manganese and selenium. All of these ingredients are necessary for improving the overall condition of joints of highly active dogs, working breeds, and even senior dogs. The dog chews come in chicken flavors that dogs love. Vitamin C is especially important in the production of collagen to help support the structure of cartilage.
Includes perna canaliculus, Vitamin E and C, l-glutathione, selenium, and manganese
Contains grape seed extract, rosemary extract, chicken liver flavor
Each chew contains 500 mg each of glucosamine sourced from crabs and shrimps and MSM
- Brand: VETRISCIENCE
- Model: 0900569.120
- Weight: 2.05 pounds
Exceptional amounts of MSM and glucosamine per tablet
Uses only pet-safe natural ingredients
Clinically proven to improve hind length strength in one month by as much as 41%
Recommended by veterinarians
Doesn’t contain chondroitin sulfate
A bit expensive
A veterinarian recommended supplement crafted to alleviate pain that your dog suffers through each day. Though the average hip and joint supplement for dogs only targets the joints to make them more supple, Vet’s Best Aches and Pains includes white willow bark extract, which works in a similar way to aspirin. So, not only does the supplement work to keep your dog’s joints healthy, it also contains a natural pain reliever for your dog’s joint pain. As well as Vet’s Best being veterinarian recommended, it was formulated by a veterinarian, and their products have been helping dogs for over 30 years.
Contains a natural pain reliever in the form of white willow bark extract
Used to ease the discomfort that is associated with a dog’s regular activity
Formulated by a vet
A supplement in chewable form for easier application and digestion
National Animal Supplement Council seal of approval
- Brand: Vet’s Best
- Weight: 4 ounces
Natural anti-inflammatory ingredients
Quick relief from everyday aches and pains
All-natural supplements for dogs
Relieves pain associated with stiff muscles and joints, even in older dogs
Some dogs can be sensitive to yucca root, which is an ingredient in this product
While other supplements stay in their chewable form, Infinite’s Hip and Joint Advanced Formula is available as an easy-to-serve powder. Powder supplements are great because you can sneak them into your dog’s food and most dogs won’t even notice. For picky eaters that identify the added formula, try mixing the powder into wet food for easier drug administration. This supplement contains the Glucosamine and MSM that every other decent joint supplement contains, while also adding in organic turmeric. Turmeric is a powerful addition because it’s a natural anti-inflammatory.
Check out our review of the Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters.
Contains organic turmeric curcumin for anti-inflammatory properties
Powder formula that can be easily added to your dog’s food
No harmful additives or other ingredients that could hurt your pup
Average 90 servings per container
- Brand: Infinite
- Weight: 3.17 ounces
All-natural ingredients
Powder formula
Helps prevent degenerative joint disease and arthritis
Reduces inflammation and improves mobility
Larger dogs use more of the product, which reduces the average 90 servings per container
For dogs who really need a boost of joint mobility, Dr. Joseph’s Hip and Joint supplement is a maximum strength formula that contains 1000mg of Glucosamine per serving. This is a product that carries five times the average Glucosamine of regular hip and joint dog supplements, giving it the ability to boost joint health in dogs of all sizes. But that’s not all! The Vetpro Complete formula also contains nature’s most powerful anti-inflammatory: Turmeric. Turmeric acts as a natural pain reliever in this supplement, while also aiding digestive health, promoting heart and liver function, and giving allergy relief to pups who need it.
Includes 1000mg of Glucosamine per serving (two chews)
Added omega fatty acids for better cardiovascular health
Supports cartilage, reduces inflammation, promotes health and wellness in all dogs
Can help treat hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint disorders
- Brand: Dr. Joseph’s
- Weight: 15 ounces
Five times the Glucosamine of regular joint supplements
Targets joints, cartilage, cardiovascular health, and digestive health all at once
Reduces painful swelling from joint inflammation
Formulated by a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience
Not flavored, which can be off-putting for some dogs
Best Dog Joint Supplements Buying Guide
How Do Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements Work?
You may be interested to know that humans also take these supplements to aid in their own joint problems. While Glucosamine improves the mobility of joints and can reduce arthritis pain, Chondroitin lubricates those same joints, giving support to the body’s natural flexibility. Both are naturally occurring and can be found in your dog’s cartilage and synovial fluid (that’s the fluid that fills the cavities of all articulating joints).
When your dog takes a supplement containing these chemicals, they’re adding to what already exists in their body. As they’re digested, they’re absorbed into your dog’s joints and cartilage, reducing the aches and pains that have built up through illness, injury, old age, and existing health conditions. Check out our guide on the best supplements for senior dogs for more info.
Why Use Dog Joint Supplements?
Your dog having joint problems is not that different from you having arthritis or joint pain or swelling. You can barely move as each attempt to move a limb is like pulling on a 5-ton vehicle. It also gets worse during cold weather as the muscles tend to pull on the different structures that connect it to the joints, leading to increased swelling and pain. These physiologic responses are the same with dogs. Typically, a pet dog who has joint problems will often display the following manifestations.
- Highly irritable especially when made to move from a particular spot
- Difficulty sitting up from a lying position or standing up from a sitting position
- Purposely slower movements of the limbs
- Incessant licking of the joints
- Hesitates to move either to walk or to run or even avoids it entirely
- Whines or cries even though there is no apparent reason
- Stays in its kennel, dog crate, or dog bed for unusually long periods of time
- May not eat or drink unless its food and water bowls are brought closer
- Struggles climbing up and down stairs or avoid doing so
- Limps while walking sans any valid reason
- Behaves in a manner that is grossly different from past behavior
These are just some of the possible signs that your dog may already be suffering from joint problems. A trip to your veterinarian can help establish your suspicions with absolute certainty. Your dog will also be provided with a variety of treatments to help alleviate the symptoms as well as possibly reverse the progression of the condition. In many cases, you will be given a joint supplement which you will administer to your pet. But why are joint supplements important for your dog?
Alleviates Pain and Suffering
Just like us, when our pets are in pain they get grumpy, agitated, irritable, and aggressive. They may not feed, refuse to play, or even go out for a walk simply because their focus is on the pain experience. Inadvertently, they may begin showing signs of deteriorating health. Many supplements for dog joints contain ingredients that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation which is technically the primary source of pain. This way your pet can be really free from pain and suffering, allowing it to enjoy its being.
Improves the Quality of Life
As already presented above, the severity and magnitude of pain can have an impact on many aspects of a creature’s existence. Not only are they physically affected, their social and emotional wellbeing are also damaged. Dogs are very social animals, everyone knows that by now. If they are unable to join their masters and their children during family outings and activities, they will feel depressed and lonely, too. This can lead to a host of canine behavioral issues that may require professional help. That is why alleviating pain and suffering and improving overall physical mobility can help improve the quality of life of our dogs with joint problems. The best dog vitamins for joint health can thus, help.
Enhances Overall Mobility
One of the most important reasons why dogs need joint supplements is to enhance their overall mobility. Your pet is not Garfield who loves to lie and sleep around all day long. They need plenty of exercise and play, lest they develop canine behavioral problems. And since they essentially have 4 legs to move about, a problem in any one of these can significantly impair their mobility. You don’t want this to happen, do you? Besides, a dog without play is a dog that is dull and quite unsocial.
Check out our article on the Best Dog Treadmill.
Facilitates Positive Canine Behavior
As we said, a mobile dog is a happy dog. If your pet is able to exercise, it is able to dispense of all that energy inside it. This leads to significantly more positive canine behavior. Your pet is a lot easier to train and will obey most of your commands. It really becomes a little bundle of joy for the whole family.
Strengthens Owner-Dog Relationship
Giving your pet the best supplements for dog joints essentially tells your pet that you care so much for its wellbeing. This endears you more to your canine friend, further strengthening the relationship that you have. For many, the loyalty of a dog is simply incomparable. No human being can ever replicate or even match the tenacious dedication, loyalty, and commitment of a pet dog to its master.
Types of Dog Joint Supplements
Now that you know why you need to give joint medication for canines, you may need to know how you can best provide such supplements. Currently, there are three basic forms of supplements for dog joints. These are the following.
- Liquids: This is often the most preferred type of supplement formulation as every bit of the active ingredients is easily absorbed by the dog’s intestinal tract. Some manufacturers recommend mixing it with food while others have to be given as a whole, usually through a medicine dropper or a specially designed liquid medication syringe.
- Tablets: One of the most common issues about using tablets is the relative difficulty of getting your pet to swallow them. While experts recommend pushing the tablet all the way to the back of the throat to bypass the pet’s gag reflex, it is just too painful to watch your pet suffer needlessly especially if your hand is a lot larger than your pet’s mouth. Additionally, tablet preparations often contain binders to compress the active ingredients and prevent them from loosening. Unfortunately, this can impact the number of absorbable ingredients.
- Powders: These are excellent choices for those who don’t like to work with either tablets or liquids. These can be mixed with food or dissolved in your pet’s drink. Either way, you’ll need to check the package directions.
- Dog chews: Some manufacturers of supplements for dog joints design their products like dog treats, making them more palatable for pets. You no longer have to shove the pill down your pet’s throat.
10 Popular Dog Joint Supplements Ingredients and Their Benefits
There are a variety of ingredients that are considered vital to improving the overall health of canine articulations while also alleviating any symptoms associated with such particular conditions. Here are ten of the most popular ingredients of joint medication for canines and what each does for your pet.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is well-regarded as one of the precursor molecules of glycosaminoglycans which are, in turn, a very important component of cartilage, the tissue that makes up the joints. Plus, glucosamine is a beneficial ingredient in the continuing formation and development of healthy cartilage. It can also help reduce the severity and extent of arthritis and may even help alleviate the pain associated with such conditions.
Typically, glucosamine is combined with chondroitin to help manage articular pain making it an equally effective arthritis medicine for dogs. It can also hasten the speed of wound repair and healing which should come in handy if your dog also has accompanying skin problems.
Chondroitin
Physiologically, chondroitin is a very crucial structural element of cartilage. Its main function is in providing resistance against compression so that the underlying bone structure doesn’t get easily damaged. It has also been shown to significantly reduce the rate of breakdown of cartilage, giving the body sufficient time to repair and heal the damaged articular surface.
As we have already shared above, chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine especially in the management of osteoarthritis. Together, these substances are able to alleviate articular pain while also working to reduce the swelling associated with such inflammatory events.
MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane or MSM is another popular ingredient found in many supplements for dog joints. It is particularly helpful in reducing signs and symptoms of inflammation which is often a hallmark of joint problems particularly those affecting membranes. Adding to its exceptional anti-inflammatory property is its ability to neutralize circulating free radicals that may aggravate any inflammatory condition especially in the joints. MSM is also beneficial in the more efficient repair of cartilaginous tissues, providing the sulfur to the critical building blocks of cartilage. This also leads to the more efficient production of collagen, a protein that is an important component of many tissues in the body like the skin and cartilage. Increasing the supply of collagen can also help improve the overall health and flexibility of these structures.
Hyaluronic Acid
Joints are composed of two opposing surfaces of bones which, if not properly lubricated, can lead to increased friction and increased risk of damage to the articular surfaces. The lubricant for the joints is known as synovial fluid and hyaluronic acid is a major component of this lubricant. Hyaluronic acid or HA is thus, important in making sure that your dog’s joints are fully functioning with each movement that your pet makes. If there is not enough synovial fluid in the joint capsule, moving will be a chore if not painful. HA is also known to be involved in tissue repair while also improving the overall hydration and elasticity of skin structures.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10, or more popularly known as CoQ10, is a fat-soluble substance that resembles those of vitamins. It is a well-known antioxidant that has been heavily marketed as a supplement for individuals with heart conditions. When used in veterinary medicine, especially in dogs, CoQ10’s antioxidant properties can help in the reduction of inflammatory changes in the joints.
This leads to more flexible articulations alleviating pain and improving overall physical mobility. It is often used in combination with Vitamins C and E as CoQ10 has been shown to increase the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these two vitamins.
Turmeric
This Indian spice may not really be at the top of your mind when it comes to canine joint health. However, numerous studies have pointed out that turmeric is one of the most effective medicinal herbs, thanks to its active ingredient, curcumin. As an ingredient in supplements for dog joints, turmeric works as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, skin protective, and anti-arthritic preparation. Studies show that its most potent property is that of an anti-inflammatory. This addresses many of the signs and symptoms of canine joint problems such as pain, discomfort, swelling, and immobility or inflexibility. By reducing the inflammatory processes in the joints, dogs are able to move freely.
Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids
Known for their antioxidant properties, omega-3 essential fatty acids are just one of two types of polyunsaturated fats, the other one being omega-6. As an antioxidant, omega-3 fatty acids can help neutralize the action of free radicals in triggering inflammatory responses in the body.
This leads to the second benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in the reduction of swelling, alleviation of pain, and improvement of overall joint mobility in dogs with particular problems such as arthritis. While these should not be considered as arthritis medicine for dogs, they can form an excellent backup to a myriad of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances that can help reduce the severity and extent of canine joint clinical manifestations. For some great options, check out our review of the best fish oils for dogs.
Vitamin C
One of the most important uses of Vitamin C in joint health is in its ability to stimulate the increased synthesis and secretion of collagen, a protein that is needed in the formation of the extracellular matrix. In other words, Vitamin C helps improve the body’s ability to produce collagen which can further strengthen and improve the overall integrity of your dog’s joints, ligaments, bones, and tendons.
Additionally, Vitamin C or ascorbic acid can play a huge role in the neutralization of free radicals which, in turn, can help reduce the incidence of clinical manifestations of inflammation. It also serves to repair and maintain other connective tissues while also slowing and preventing direct and indirect cellular damage. Technically, Vitamin C is a powerhouse substance that has many health benefits even to canines.
Vitamin E
Like Vitamin C, alpha-tocopheryl or Vitamin E is an excellent antioxidant which can help in the prevention of inflammatory conditions in the joints of your pet dog. It has also been established that Vitamin E can help reduce the rate of cartilage destruction while promoting its repair. When used in combination with Vitamin C and CoQ10, the effects can be simply amazing for your pet.
Selenium
It may not be as popular as the other micronutrients like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, but selenium has been proven to be particularly important in the more efficient remodeling and regeneration of damaged cartilage. This leads to stronger cartilaginous tissues and, in turn, healthier joints.
See our round-up of the Best Dog Food Brands.
Dog Joint Supplements Conclusion
Canine joint problems are a great concern for many dog owners as it affects their pet’s level of comfort and mobility and significantly impairs their ability to bond and socialize with their masters and other dogs. Giving them the right joint supplement should help prevent the rapid deterioration of their articular health while promoting optimum mobility and overall quality of canine life.
When Should I Start Giving my Dog Joint Supplements?
The time to give your dog joint supplements will largely depend on their age and breed. Some dogs suffer from joint issues early on in life, and those breeds can be given joint supplements from as early as one year old. At 12 months, your dog stops growing, so you can safely give them preventative and helpful supplements like joint supplements that contain Glucosamine.
Any dog breed known to develop joint issues, such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, inflammation, and the like, would benefit from starting joint supplements once they turn a year old. These breeds include:
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Chow Chows
- Dachshunds
- French Bulldogs
- German Shepherds
- Golden Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Pit Bulls
- Pugs
- Rottweilers
- Shih Tzus
This is not an exhaustive list. As you can see, there is a huge mix of small and large breeds of dogs here.
Can a Dog Overdose on Joint Supplements?
It is possible for a dog to overdose on joint supplements, depending on what ingredients the supplement contains. Some supplements contain things like Yucca Root, which many dogs are sensitive to. Dogs with sensitive digestive systems may also struggle with supplements, so we would advise erring on the side of caution and consulting your vet before giving your dog any new supplements or changing their diet.
For dogs, the symptoms of overdosing on supplements may include:
Too much Glucosamine can be toxic to dogs.
Are There Any Other Risks That You Should Be Aware Of?
Be aware of the upper dosage limits for the size of dog you are giving a joint supplement to. Though a large dog may benefit from a maximum strength dose of 1000mg Glucosamine, a Toy breed dog may find that too much. Always slowly introduce any new supplements into your dog’s diet by halving the suggested dose for your dog’s weight. All supplements have a suggested dose on their packaging – never exceed this dose.
Always check with a veterinarian before giving any supplements of any kind to your dog. They’ll be able to tell you whether your dog will benefit from the supplement and whether or not it’s safe for your dog to take.
Your dog is less likely to overdose on the Glucosamine or Chrondroitin in joint supplements than they are to overdose on the other ingredients. Watch out for excessive levels of zinc and Vitamin D, which can be more harmful is an overdose occurs.
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Dog Joint Supplements Conclusion
Canine joint problems are a great concern for many dog owners as it affects their pet’s level of comfort and mobility and significantly impairs their ability to bond and socialize with their masters and other dogs. Giving them the right joint supplement should help prevent the rapid deterioration of their articular health while promoting optimum mobility and overall quality of canine life.
Sources:
- Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, Dietary Supplements for Pets, Clinical Nutrition Service
FAQs:
Dogs that are genetically predisposed to developing joint issues will almost always benefit from taking joint supplements. Your dog would also benefit from joint supplements if they have been injured in the past and now struggle with inflammation from that injury. Your vet may also recommend putting your dog on a joint supplement, but many of the supplements provided by veterinarian practices can be quite pricey.
When you're trying your dog on a new joint supplement, don't be discouraged if it doesn't start working right away or show results in a few days. Most supplements need time to start working in a dog's body, so you can expect to see improvements in your dog's joints anywhere from two to six weeks after the first dose.
As long as your dog is benefitting from the joint supplement they're taking and isn't having any adverse reactions to the ingredients, you should be able to keep your dog on that joint supplement for as long as you want to. There's no harm in your dog taking helpful supplements, provided they aren't overdosing on it or taking one with potentially toxic ingredients.
The side-effects of Glucosamine toxicity or overdosing on Glucosamine include:
- Diarrhea
- Bloody stool
- Nose Bleeds
- Lameness
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
These may also occur in dogs that are sensitive to ingredients in the Glucosamine supplement, including sensitivity to Glucosamine, itself.
This fully depends on the weight of your dog, but it's roughly 15 to 30mg per kilogram of body weight. As an example, a 30lb dog should have a minimum of 200mg and a maximum of 400mg. You might need to play around with the amounts to find the best level for your pet, but it's best to just follow the advice on the product packaging.
Joint supplements, once they've started being taken by your dog, should be given to your dog every day. Any joint supplement worth buying for your pup will tell you exactly how much and how often to give your dog the product. Typically, this will be something like 1 to 2 chewable supplements per day, depending on the weight of your dog. This obviously varies for liquid and powder supplements.
Not at all! In fact, MSM is an extremely safe ingredient for your dog to have in their supplements. Interestingly enough, it has the same toxicity level as standard tap water, and even humans would need to consume a solid 3 pounds of straight MSM to see any side effects of toxicity.
Cosequin is often recommended by veterinarians for senior dogs because it can provide great health support in a dog's later life. Unlike standard joint supplements, a dog doesn't need to be on Cosequin for a long period of time. The recommended period for taking this supplement is four to six weeks in the first instance, and never any longer unless you're given the go-ahead by your dog's vet.
Both of these products are joint supplements for dogs that are made by Nutramax Labs. While Dasuquin contains ASU, Cosequin does not, and that is the only major difference between the two. ASU is a unique ingredient that is added to Dasuquin because it helps reduce cartilage by reducing inflammation and preventing cartilage degeneration. ASU standards for "Avocado and Soybean Unsaponifiable". It's an extra that is created from avocado and soybean oil.
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I’m not really into dog before, not that I hate them it’s just my mother and father was not really into it maybe that’s why I never thought of it when I was young. But ever since my boyfriend had one even at my workplace we have a cute dog. I’m starting to think about getting one. I prefer the big ones haha!. Knowing the right supplements for them is a big help, thank you for sharing this informative article. Now I have more idea about different kinds of supplements to buy for soon to be a dog owner. 🙂 Keep it up!