Many people swear by Glucosamine for its anti-inflammatory properties, but can this supplement reduce aches and pains for dogs too?
That is a great question considering that osteoarthritis is very common among canines.
Here’s the good news:
Glucosamine is an excellent treatment for lots of dogs. It works for all sorts of debilitating joint problems.
Yes, it’s true! Studies confirm the merits of this supplement.
Glucosamine Works For Dogs
And especially for hip dysplasia and arthritis (osteoarthritis).
You could see results by putting your dog on the right product.
Get quality Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM (chewable tablets specially formulated for dogs).
What we like is that there aren’t a lot of downsides as side effects are nearly nonexistent. Nevertheless, invest in a reputable brand for optimal results.
FYI: Your vet may instead recommend Rimadyl or a similar carprofen for your dog’s joint problems.
Glucosamine’s Effectiveness
While evidence is not totally conclusive and results vary, it’s fair to say Glucosamine has helped thousands of dogs by improving symptoms related to joint health.
1 randomized double-blind study evaluated 35 dogs.
Most of the animals showed “statistically significant improvements in scores for pain, weight-bearing and severity of the condition by day 70.”
We feel comfortable recommending it after looking into several other reputable studies.
Still, there is lax regulation of Glucosamine, Chondroitin and its variations (including Hydrochloride (HCI) or sulphate form and with or without MSM).
FYI: Glucosamine is actually considered a nutraceutical!
Do Your Due Diligence
Do not mess around!
Be sure that your dog gets a trusted Glucosamine product and stick to it for at least a couple of months.
Dosing is difficult to provide here simply because there are many different concentrations. Also, several other factors go into how much you should be giving your dog.
And arthritis is not all the same.
Consult with a vet or adhere to the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines. Purchasing Glucosamine made for dogs is your best bet.
Not For Diabetic Dogs
One word of caution concerning Glucosamine:
Diabetic dogs probably should not be taking these supplements.
Play it safe!
It is, after all, an amino sugar which may make regulation of blood sugar more difficult (though this is not a conclusive finding).
Cartilage And Your Canine
Proponents of Glucosamine explain that it supports cartilage regrowth and slows down bone degradation.
This, in turn, reduces inflammation and pain. That’s obviously be desirable for a beloved dog.
Watch this video!
Degenerative joint disease is so prevalent. As such, pet parents are always searching for solutions.
Glucosamine is one of the best options (it’s safer than popular NSAIDs and similar pain pills).
The Bottom Line
Glucosamine could really provide relief for a dog suffering with arthritis, hip dysplasia, other joint pain or stiffness.
It may greatly improve quality of life. At the same time, some vets do not favor it despite some promising clinical data.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin is worth trying, but get your dog checked out for the most effective treatment possible.
I know the tricks of the scandalous vet medicine trade because I’ve worked as a vet tech for years. Don’t believe anything your veterinarian has to say about your pet and arthritis. Glucosamine Chondroitin has been studied by the FDA and has been proven to have absolutely no positive affect on arthritis, preventing or reversing it. It’s snake oil.
We had an older dog who was suffering from joint pain. Vets said it was just something that goes with old age. This was quite a few years ago.
I, myself, had success with Glucosamine with MSM and gave him a dose by weight. Within a month he was in much less pain and able to be more active.
After about a year, my husband stopped the meds and within a month the dog was again in quite a bit of pain and much less active. Back on the Glucosamine and my old dog improved slowly again.
He stayed on it for the next two years, till he left this world an old happy and much loved friend. I felt very good being able to help my loving pet in his last years. I swear by this stuff.
Did you use a human Glucosamine MSM version or one designed for dogs?
Dr. Carol Osborne (DVM) says, “numerous studies have demonstrated the fact that Glucosamine helps rebuild and restore vital glycoproteins, resulting in improved joint strength, flexibility and mobility. Many owners who have used Glucosamine report their dogs have experienced less pain and fewer episodes of discomfort caused by sore, swollen joints.
A study by members of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Ohio State University tested the effect of Glucosamine on adult dogs. During all test phases conducted at 1, 3 and 5 month intervals, supplemental Glucosamine enhanced the amount and viscosity of synovial fluid, making the joints more cushioned and resistant to impact.”
Thank you for this information. Would you possibly know dosing amounts? I have a 7 year old, 13 pound Mini-Doxie. She moves rather slowly and seems to be uncomfortable. She is also in 7th heaven when I rub her hips and legs.
Many premium dog foods contain Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Chondroitin Sulfate for good joint health. They may also include Green Lipped Mussels from New Zealand for the same purpose.