THE 5 BEST JOINT SUPPLEMENTS FOR DOGS
Fact checked by Shereen JegtvigReviewed by Nelva J. Bryant
When it gets harder for your senior pup to jump off the couch or bound down the steps, you might consider dog joint supplements. Available as chews, powder, liquid, or capsules, joint supplements for dogs contain glucosamine and chondroitin, and these two compounds are important components of cartilage found naturally in the body.
There is not yet a strong scientific consensus on the value of supplementing with either compound to benefit your dog’s joint health, though some studies have found a reduction in discomfort related to osteoarthritis. While many veterinarians and dog owners provide anecdotal evidence for the effectiveness of joint health supplements—and they are widely considered safe for use—more research is needed to say for sure whether or not your dog will benefit from glucosamine and chondroitin.
Some joint supplements also contain omega fatty acids. “Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects on the body and can be useful in reducing joint inflammation in cases of osteoarthritis,” says veterinarian Lisa Chimes of DOG by Dr Lisa pet care in Australia.
It’s a good idea to talk to your vet before adding a supplement to your dog’s diet. “Not all supplements are created equal,” says Chimes. “Typically, vet-recommended brands are the most reliable.”
Our best overall joint supplement for dogs is Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and hyaluronic acid, and is often recommended by veterinarians.
Best Overall: Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement for Dogs
What We Like
Contains glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as methylsulfonylmethane
For all ages; dose based on body weight
Vet-recommended
Made in the United States
What We Don't Like
Some users report GI upset
Each chewable tablet contains 600 mg of glucosamine HCI from shellfish and 300 mg of chondroitin derived from bovine cartilage. It also adds 250 mg of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), which is an anti-inflammatory supplement sometimes used by people with osteoarthritis.
The tablets can be used for dogs of all sizes. Talk to your vet, but Nutramax recommends that you begin with a higher dosage for the first four to six weeks and then drop down to a lower maintenance level. A 40-pound dog, for example, would begin by taking two tablets a day and then transition to just one tablet.
This brand comes in bottles of 75, 132, or 250 tablets. It’s also available in lower and double-strength concentrations, in other formulations, and as soft chews and capsules.
Quantity: 75, 132, 250 tablets | Flavors: N/A | Dose: 1 tablet for 16-30 pounds | Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, sodium chondroitin sulfate, MSM, manganese ascorbate
Best Chews: Zesty Paws Mobility Bites Hip & Joint Support Duck Flavor Chews
What We Like
Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM
No artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors
No grain, corn, or soy
For all ages and sizes
NASC seal
What We Don't Like
Some owners report GI issues
Zesty Paws has a complete line of supplements for dogs, including several that specifically target joint health. These Hip and Joint Mobility Bites are heart-shaped chews packed with joint-protecting ingredients. Each chew has 450 mg of glucosamine HMI, 400 mg of MSM, and 125 mg of chondroitin. along with added kelp and vitamins C and E. The supplements have no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors and they’re made without grain, corn, or soy.
The chews can be given to all ages and all sizes, starting with one supplement for up to 25 pounds of body weight. There are several different recipes of this supplement including one for seniors, another that is vet-strength, and some that feature the added nutrition of mussels or hemp. If you're looking for other supplements for dogs, consider Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Multifunctional Bites, which address eight different health benefits ranging from joint function to skin health. They contain smaller amounts of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, but also include cod liver oil, a vitamin blend, digestive enzymes, and “good” bacteria for gut health.
Quantity: 90, 180, 250 chews | Flavors: Bacon, duck | Dose: 1 chew for up to 25 pounds | Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, methylsulfonylmethane, vitamin C, chondroitin sulfate, kelp, vitamin E
Best Treats: Bocce's Bakery Hip Daily Support Treats for Dogs
What We Like
Only three ingredients
No byproducts, fillers, or wheat
Small batches baked in the United States
What We Don't Like
More calories than some
Bocce’s Bakery makes lots of limited-ingredient crunchy treats in many flavors, all in a distinctive “B” shape. This particular peanut butter recipe is targeted toward hip and joint health. The treats have only three ingredients: oat flour, peanut butter, and glucosamine. There’s a minimum of 800 mg/kg of glucosamine in the treats.
Bocce treats are oven-baked in the United States in small batches. Ingredients are often locally sourced and the treats contain no byproducts, fillers, or wheat. The feeding instructions for the snacks are somewhat vague, suggesting they be fed as a snack or a treat as part of a healthy diet. Each crunchy little treat contains 12 calories, so be sure to count those calories, particularly if your pup is small or overweight.
Quantity: 12 ounces | Flavors: Peanut butter | Dose: Daily as a treat | Active Ingredient(s): Oat flour, peanut butter, glucosamine
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Best Powder: Missing Link Original All Natural Superfood Dog Supplement Hip and Joint Formula
What We Like
Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid
Also has omega fatty acids and probiotics
Powder is easy to measure and dose
NASC seal
What We Don't Like
Can be harder to mix with dry food
Missing Link Hip and Joint Powder has all but the kitchen sink thrown in for joint support ingredients. It has 440 mg of glucosamine, 250 mg of MSM, and 100 mg of chondroitin. But the first ingredient is flaxseed, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. There’s also kelp, taurine, hyaluronic acid, and so much more.
This powder is easy to measure to make sure you are giving the correct dose. It’s also the most direct way to deliver nutrients. You start with small amounts, then work your way up to the recommended maintenance dose which is 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of body weight. You can sprinkle it directly onto wet food or kibble, but if you feed dry food, it might work best to add it to a little broth or water to make sure it gets absorbed by the pieces.
Quantity: 8 ounces, 1 pound, 5 pounds | Flavor: Beef, salmon | Dose: 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of body weight | Active Ingredients: Omega 3, 9, and 6 fatty acids; glucosamine; MSM; rice bran; nutritional yeast; chondroitin
Best Omega-3: PetHonesty Omega-3 Fish Oil Dog & Cat Supplement
What We Like
Made using sustainable and ethical practices
Can be used for both dogs and cats
Available in two sizes
NASC seal
What We Don't Like
Liquid can be messy
Omega-3 fatty acids are often recommended for skin and coat health, but these healthy fats can also help with joint health, pain, and stiffness. One of the best ways to add these nutrients to your dog’s diet is through fish oil supplements like this one from Pet Honesty. Made with wild-caught anchovies, sardines, herring, and mackerel, the oil is made using ethical and sustainable practices and tested by a third party for purity.
The supplement is available in liquid form. You can use the dropper to splash some on your pup’s food or even squirt it directly into their mouth. Be careful, as dispensing liquid can be a bit messy depending on how fussy your pet is when taking supplements. It comes in two sizes: 16 ounces and 32 ounces.
The Pet Honesty Omega-3 Supplement is a member of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). Having this seal shows that the company is committed to promoting the well-being of companion animals.
Quantity: 16, 32 ounces | Flavors: Fish (anchovies, sardines, herring, and mackerel) | Dose: 1 pump (2 milliliters) per 25 pounds of weight | Active Ingredient(s): Anchovy oil, sardine oil, herring oil, mackerel oil
Final Verdict
Our favorite joint supplement for dogs is Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and hyaluronic acid, and is often recommended by veterinarians. Another great option is Zesty Paws Hip and Joint Mobility Bites. These soft, heart-shaped chews are also packed with joint-protecting ingredients.
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What to Look for in Dog Joint Supplements
Active Ingredients
Most joint supplements include one or more of the following ingredients.
- Glucosamine hydrochloride: This natural compound is found in cartilage, the tissue between joints. It is often used to target joint pain and stiffness in people, dogs, and horses. There’s little veterinary scientific evidence that it works, but a 2007 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin offered a “moderate level of comfort” for dogs with osteoarthritis.
- Chondroitin sulfate: Glucosamine is often given together with another natural compound called chondroitin. Both substances are found naturally in cartilage—the tissue that cushions and connects joints. Chondroitin is essential in the growth of new cartilage and acts as an absorbent that keeps cartilage hydrated and healthy.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These “good” fats are typically found in fish oil. Research suggests that supplementing a dog’s diet with these natural substances can help to ease arthritis in dogs.
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): This naturally occurring substance is sometimes given for inflammation. An older study, published in 2006, found potential benefits in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, but data is extremely limited and the mechanism is unknown.
- Hyaluronic acid: This fluid is found in the body as natural cushioning for joints. Studies have found that supplementation with hyaluronic acid may help manage arthritis in dogs.
Reliable Sourcing
Sourcing is very important when choosing dog supplements. Look for a brand that has the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval. In order to be able to display the NASC seal, companies must meet several requirements, including having strong quality control, having a system to monitor products, submitting to random testing, and meeting strict labeling guidelines. Brands have to pay a fee in order to be eligible to display the seal.
Supplementing the Supplements
In addition to considering supplements, there are several things you can do at home to support your dog’s joint health.
- Diet: Keeping your dog at an ideal weight can help relieve the stress on their joints. Talk to your vet about how much you are feeding (remember, treats count too!).
- Exercise: Make sure your dog is active every day. “Daily gentle exercise is very helpful for joints while keeping constant high-impact activities to a minimum,” says Chimes. “For example, don’t let your dog chase the ball repeatedly every day, as this can strain the joints and lead to an earlier onset of arthritis.” Instead, try a mix of walking, swimming, and occasional ball or Frisbee chasing.
- Massage: Gently massage your dog’s sore spots, like knees and hips. Talk to your vet about whether heating pads or ice packs might also help.
- Beds and ramps: Consider orthopedic dog beds for naptime comfort and try dog stairs—or better yet, ramps—so your pup won’t have to vault on and off the bed or in and out of the car.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you start joint supplements for dogs?
You don’t have to wait until your dog has achy joints to start joint supplements. “If supplements are going to help, it’s best to start them early in the course of the joint disease before irreparable joint damage has occurred,” veterinarian Lisa Chimes told The Spruce Pets. Talk to your veterinarian and follow the dosage directions on the package for your dog’s weight.
Are joint supplements safe? Do they have side effects?
Supplements can have different effects depending on your dog’s reaction to the active and inactive ingredients. “Each supplement should be looked at individually, and you should discuss your dog’s joint disease and other health conditions with your vet,” says Chimes. “Some supplements can have side effects such as weight gain and gastrointestinal upset, especially at higher doses, which is another reason why your vet should be consulted.”
Can a dog overdose on joint supplements?
As with medications, your dog can overdose on supplements too. “This can occur when animals are given a combination of supplements and prescription diets, as there is sometimes overlap with particular ingredients,” Chimes says. “Your vet will be able to calculate the doses of supplements required for your dog, taking into account their diet, medications, and health status.”
Why Trust The Spruce Pets
To find the best joint supplements for dogs, we researched brands based on active and inactive ingredients, flavors, dosage, and user reviews. We also consulted owners, veterinarians, and fosters about if they give their dog supplements and what they look for.
This article was researched and written by Mary Jo DiLonardo, who has covered animals and pets for several decades. Mary Jo has fostered more than 60 dogs and puppies and has a senior rescue dog of her own. She has just started to give supplements to her aging BFF and is very concerned about ingredients and side effects. Mary Jo is always searching for the healthiest and most effective products to use with them, such as the best dog treats and dog supplements.
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2023-07-18T21:02:37Z dg43tfdfdgfd