The Best Dog Joint Supplements
Dogs are active animals. Between running and playing, they put a lot of wear and tear on their joints. In fact, joint problems are one of the most common ailments of dogs as they age. Joint supplements can help maintain joint health and may even help them build up their mobility. If you're concerned about your dog's joint health, check out our list of the best of the best.
GROWLIES Hemp Chews
Tasty meets effective
This is a great product for joint care pain relief, made with hemp seed oil. These chews restore mobility and ease discomfort. They also have an advanced formula for hip and joint support for senior dogs. Made in the USA, these are tasty, effective, and come in 170 chews per jar.
Pros:
- These soft chews are easy to serve
- The soft chews taste great so dogs think they’re being treated, not given a medication
Cons:
- Up to 5% of pets may not respond to these chews
- Larger dogs will need more chews than smaller ones
Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement Plus MSM
Extra support
This is a vet-recommended product made with scientifically researched ingredients. They come in tasty flavors that help dogs who are having problems with mobility like jumping or climbing. The maximum-strength formula is ideal for older dogs.
Pros:
- Can help your dog move more freely
- These dog joint supplements promote activity
Cons:
- The daily dosage will vary, so you may have to start with a low dose and work your way up to see how your dog responds
Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews
For the Big Guys
These are great joint health supplements for larger dogs that offer the ability to help support mobility. These chews can help your pet get back the ability they had to move freely and easily. Best of all, it’s not hard to get your pooch to take their daily supplement, since the chewy texture and flavor is an instant favorite.
Pros:
- These chews are vet recommended
- These joint supplements for dogs will help your pup regain mobility
Cons:
- Dogs must be over 60 pounds to take these
- These may cost more than other joint supplements for dogs
PetNC Natural Care Hip and Joint Soft Chews for Dogs
For the Dog Owner on a Budget
Coming in a 90 count container, these joint supplements for dogs provide support for hips and joints. They are chewable for finicky eaters. Additionally, they’re made in the USA.
Pros:
- These are a cost-effective option for joint health
- These are soft for dogs who have sensitive or poor teeth
Cons:
- These may contain shellfish, so be aware if your dog has allergies
- These do expire, so watch out for dates
Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs
Support Overall Health
If you’re looking to promote healthy hips, joints, and ligaments in your fur baby, check out Doggie Dailies. These 225 soft chews are tasty, help with mobility, and have salmon and cod oil to help with their skin and coat health.
Pros:
- This product comes with vitamins and nutrients
- These help to increase energy
Cons:
- You may check the ingredients for sensitive dogs
- May cause excessive thirst in certain dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs need joint supplements?
Dogs are very active and sometimes have ailments. When you go to the gym, you often need support for sore muscles. It’s the same for your dog, who runs, plays, jumps, and who could suffer from pain as he or she ages. If you’re wondering if it’s time to start your dog on joint supplements and he or she hasn’t indicated a decrease in mobility, check with your vet.
How many supplements should you give your dog?
Each of the supplements listed indicates how many chews each dog should get. These are directly related typically to your dog’s size, so be sure that you know your pup’s weight when you go to give them these chews. Again, speak with your vet if you’re skeptical about dosage or are concerned about your dog not feeling better due to a potentially incorrect dose.
How do you know if your dog needs joint supplements?
Typically, your dog will show a loss of mobility, either with having trouble doing things he or she typically did like running, jumping, climbing, etc. If they haven’t but are aging, you might want to get ahead of that and offer joint supplements. If you are not sure about whether or not your dog needs them, please reach out to your vet.
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