Sometimes, your dog’s diet alone might not give them enough nutrients for their joints, whether they’re super active or more laid-back. Some dogs might need specific supplements based on their age, how much they move around, and their overall health.
Certain dog breeds, like Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds, are more likely to have joint issues. Injuries and things like being overweight can also cause joint problems. But you can help your dog with these issues by adding good joint supplements to their diet.
We want to see your doggos happy and healthy, so we asked our vet, Soneye Tolawalase, to review and pick out the best joint supplements. In this guide, you’ll find scientifically backed supplements that could make a difference for your dog’s joints if used correctly.
1. The Missing Link Skin and Coat
Taste: Beef, salmon | Type: Powder | Key Ingredients: Omega 3, 9, and 6 fatty acids, glucosamine, MSM, rice bran, nutritional yeast, Chondroitin
The Missing Link Original All-Natural Superfood powder is a top choice for supporting your dog’s hips and joints. Made with flaxseed as the main ingredient, it provides essential fatty acids that are vital for bone health and overall well-being. The ingredients are processed using cold-process technology to ensure high quality.
One of the best features of The Missing Link supplements is how easy they are to use. They’re perfect for pet owners looking for a simple way to enhance their dog’s bone health.
Advantages
• Contains glucosamine, Chondroitin, and probiotics
• Great for all ages
• Produced using cold-process technology
• NASC-Certified
Disadvantages
• Doesn’t mix easily with dry food
• Some picky dogs reject it
2. NaturVet Joint Health Level 3
Flavor: Original | Form: Powder | Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, collagen peptides, methylsulfonylmethane, hemp seed oil, hemp seed powder, Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega-6 fatty acids
Keep your dog’s hips and joints in top shape with NaturVet Joint Health supplement. This powder is a blend of glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, hemp seed oil, MSM, and omega fatty acids, designed to support your pet’s joint health.
NaturVet’s formula targets connective tissue repair and maintenance, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Your furry friend will appreciate this nutritious treat.
Advantages
• It is NASC-Certified
• Can be given to dogs and cats
• Has an option for senior dogs
• Dogs weighing over 11 lbs can take multiple treats per day.
Disadvantages
• Chews often stick together
3. Grizzly Pet Product Hip and Joint Supplement
Keep your pet’s joints healthy with Grizzly Pet Product Joint Aid. This supplement comes in a liquid form with a natural wild krill taste that dogs enjoy. It contains five active ingredients, including glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, methyl sulfonyl methane, krill oil, and hyaluronic acid. The bottle has an airtight pump for easy use.
Advantages
• Has a natural wild krill taste
• Has five active joint support ingredients
• The bottle has an airtight, medical-grade pump
Disadvantages
• Some pet owners dislike the smell
4. Nutramax Cosequin Joint Supplement
Type: Chewable tablet | Key Ingredients: Glucosamine hydrochloride (from shellfish), sodium Chondroitin sulfate, methylsulfonylmethane, sodium hyaluronate, manganese (manganese ascorbate)
Nutramax Cosequin Joint Supplement for Dogs is a specially crafted product designed by veterinarians. It’s known as the top choice for dog joint health. Made in the USA, it contains powerful ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. This makes it ideal for dogs dealing with early signs of arthritis.
Nutramax Laboratories has been creating supplements to boost joint health and overall well-being for over 30 years. With Nutramax, you can trust that your pet is getting top-quality care.
Advantages
• Great for all ages
• Also supports coat health and the digestive system
• Formulated by veterinarians
• Available in 2 package sizes
• Has different formulations with different additives
Disadvantages
• May cause stomach upset in some dogs
• Noticeable smell makes it difficult to administer
5. Doggie Dailies Hip and Joint Supplement
Doggie Dailies Hip and Joint Supplement is a treat that dogs love. It comes in tasty flavors like chicken, duck, and peanut butter. These soft chews are easy for dogs to eat.
The supplement contains special ingredients that help keep your dog’s joints healthy. It has glucosamine HCl from shellfish, chondroitin, MSM, yucca schidigera, coenzyme Q10, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients support joint health by protecting cells and reducing inflammation.
Advantages
• Manufactured in a GMP-compliant facility
• Formulated using cold-press extrusion
• NASC Certified
• Quality tested by a third-party lab
Disadvantages
• Not suitable for dogs with chicken or wheat intolerances.
• Larger dogs have to eat up to 6 chews per day
• Not suitable for pregnant dogs
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