As with humans, dogs can develop bone problems like arthritis. This causes pain in the joints and restricts their ability to have fun and play. So let us look at which are the best joint supplement for older dogs.
There are many products that target older dogs. And it can be difficult to know what you need to know in order to choose the right joint supplement for older dogs.
The most common supplement for joint problems in dogs and humans, which has shown some promise in research, is glucosamine.
Glucosamine is The Best Joint Supplement for Older Dogs
You can add glucosamine to the diet of your senior dog for many benefits.
- Pain relief
- Lowers inflammation
- Rebuilds damaged cartilage
- Improved joint function
- Joint movement is easier
- Increased energy
Additionally, glucosamine can be purchased at a lower cost, poses fewer risks than pain medication, and doesn’t react to other medications, supplements, foods, or other drugs other than blood thinners.
I have used (it for my dogs) and recommend Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs
Glucosamine is Not For All Dogs
There are some downsides to giving your dog glucosamine.
- Allergy – Your dog cannot take glucosamine that is not plant-based if they have a shellfish allergy. There are many plant-based forms.
- Diabetes Issues – Some dogs have problems with their blood sugar when they take glucosamine. This is something your vet will be looking out for.
- Gastrointestinal problems – This can cause gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some dogs.
How to Choose the Best Joint Supplement for Older Dogs
Here’s how you can choose a joint supplement such as glucosamine to help your senior dog.
- Read all labels – It is important to know what your dog’s allergies are by now. Most glucosamine is mixed with other supplements such as avocado oil and fish oils rather than a single ingredient. You should only purchase the highest quality supplement you can afford.
- Get to know your dog – Some dogs can be very resistant to you giving them pills or adding food items to their diet. You may need to spend more money on a treat for your dog that has glucosamine. You have many options: chews, pills, powders, and liquids.
- Your Vet – Your vet will often know which options are most costly and which ones are the least expensive. Ask for cheaper alternatives if they have something that you cannot afford.
There are many options available, but you should always consult your vet before giving your dog any products that could cause harm.
Your vet should confirm that you are not giving your dog anything made for humans.
VetIQ Hip & Joint Supplement for Dogs, Chicken Flavored Soft Chews
Glucosamine For Dog Arthritis: Is It Safe?
With annual sales of US $288 million, glucosamine was America’s top-selling dietary supplement. It is a highly-respected dietary supplement worldwide.
It’s potential to repair damaged joints and slow down the progression of arthritis has been proven time and again.
Because glucosamine is so effective in treating human arthritis, we naturally ask: “What about dog arthritis?” Are glucosamine supplements for dogs safe?
Glucosamine is Both Safe and Efficient
Safety concerns stem from animal studies where large amounts of glucosamine were intravenously administered to rats and other animals for short periods.
These conditions were not typical, and glucosamine was found to increase insulin levels and/or cause insulin resistance.
The same result was observed when researchers administered large amounts of intravenous glucose to humans.
Researchers were concerned that glucosamine supplements for dogs could lead to diabetes or worsen diabetes.
Orally administered normal therapeutic doses of glucosamine have not been shown to cause any adverse effects on insulin resistance, insulin levels, or blood sugar levels.
Normal therapeutic doses of glucosamine given orally to diabetic rats or humans with type 2 diabetes have not been shown to have any significant effect on insulin, blood sugar, or insulin resistance.
Cosequin, a glucosamine-chondroitin combination that is used to treat horse arthritis, cat arthritis, and dog arthritis, is known by the brand name Cosequin. It is taken orally and has a good safety record.
Cosequin is known to have a high safety profile. Safety studies showed that Cosequin was safe when given at twice the label recommended doses for 30 days to healthy dogs.
There were no adverse effects on blood sugar levels. These studies did not show any clinically significant changes in biochemical parameters.
A diabetic dog would not experience an increase in blood sugar, but it is best to keep your pet’s glucose levels under control.
Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs – With Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM
#1 Veterinarian Recommended Retail Joint Health Supplement Brand
The joint health supplement used the most by pet parents*
Formulated for dogs of all sizes
No matter their size, you can count on finding a COSEQUIN joint health supplement for your dog!
I hope that the information on this page helps you to choose which joint supplement for older dogs is meaningful and helps alleviate your dog’s joint pain.
Endnote:
While it is not directly related, my article titled How to Calm a Dog With CBD Oil might be of interest to you. I suggest this because CBD oil might be an option for your dog if they are in pain and need calming down. But, please check with your vet first.