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Are you struggling with arthritic pain in your dog? They’re not alone! Osteoarthritis and joint pains are some of the most prevalent conditions in any dog. Little did we know that canine osteoarthritis is a very widespread disease that impacts 20 percent of all dogs. Thus, with aging, the risk of developing joint issues increases in dogs. Being a dog parent, I can tell it’s the most unpleasant experience you can ever imagine to see your dog in pain. You probably will attempt to comfort them with supplements.
However, before you follow the supplement feeding regimen for your dog, be sure to check what you’re giving your dog. So, is it a good idea to give Glucosamine Chondroitin to your dog? Let’s find out.
What is Glucosamine for Dogs?
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance made of glucose and glutamine. It is a blend of sugar and amino acids that supports the preservation of good cartilage and joint function. Not to mention, the structure of cartilage is built on glucosamine. This substance is also in charge of the formation of cartilage cells, which are necessary to restore the proper amount of joint lubrication.
Your dog naturally produces the chemical glucosamine. But over time, its productivity may decrease and become irregular. One of the most important signs of insufficient glucosamine synthesis in dogs is joint pain. If your dog has joint pain, you can give them Glucosamine supplements.
What is Chondroitin for Dogs?
Glucosamine isn’t the only substance that can benefit your dog’s joints. In addition to the naturally occurring sugar-amino acid combination, chondroitin sulfate is also good for dogs. Chondroitin provides support for joints. It enriches the dog’s cartilage with structure and offers resistance to compression.
You don’t need chewable supplements to give your dog Chondroitin. They can get it from fish, bird cartilage, and pig trachea naturally.
Joint Health Benefits of Glucosamine Chondroitin
The most common application of these supplements is the management of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders such as hip dysplasia in dogs. But that’s not all. They offer various other benefits as well.
Reducing Arthritis Symptoms and Joint Mobility Issues
According to research conducted by Open Veterinary Journal, Glucosamine and Chondroitin help with Osteoarthritis. It repairs damaged cartilage and rebuilds new one through chondrocyte formation. It revives the synovial fluid which is particularly important for providing lubrication or ‘shock absorbing properties’ in a joint.
Chondroitin, on the other hand, prevents cartilage breakdown and reduces joint inflammation. Together, they do not cure arthritis but they do slow its progress and also serve to increase the level of mobility of the affected joints.
Improving Senior Dog's Quality of Life
If your dog is in pain, they won’t jump or play around like they used to. Joint discomfort can impact senior dogs’ daily activities. Glucosamine and chondroitin can help senior dogs stay active and have a better quality of life by improving joint function and relieving discomfort.
Preventive Use in Healthy Dogs
These supplements are still favored among dog owners and veterinarians mainly because glucosamine and chondroitin are widely promoted as effective joint support supplements.
Supporting Long-term Joint Health
In taking glucosamine and chondroitin as safeguard measures, the idea is to prevent cartilage and joint fluid from reaching such a severely degenerate state. This is especially important for the breeds that are likely to suffer from issues related to the joints or for the dogs that need long periods of exercising.
Common Side Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin in Dogs
Supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, are beneficial to joint diseased dogs but like other medicines, they have side effects, especially with long-term use.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
Common side effects of taking Glucosamine and Chondroitin include diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. These symptoms are usually moderate. You can change the dosage after consulting with your vet. One thing that helps is that you should gradually introduce the supplement into their diet. This will help their body get used to it.
Allergic reactions:
Some glucosamine products are made from shellfish, which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. Some possible symptoms include:
- Itching
- Hives
- Rashes
Long-term Risks and Considerations
There are a few long-term side effects associated with glucosamine-chondroitin:
Blood Sugar and Diabetes Concerns:
Glucosamine may impact blood sugar levels, making it a danger factor for diabetic or at-risk pets.
While early studies suggested this possibility, more recent and extensive studies indicate that glucosamine has little to no effect on blood sugar in dogs. However, diabetic pets should continue to be closely monitored.
Interactions with other medications.
Glucosamine, particularly chondroitin, may have a blood-thinning effect, which could be problematic for dogs on anticoagulant drugs.
To read more about The side effects of glucosamine for dogs, visit VetGen Pharmaceuticals.
Regulatory Oversight and Quality Concerns
Unlike pharmaceuticals, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin are not strictly controlled by the FDA, resulting in variations in the quality and concentration of goods available on the market. Looking for goods that have been independently evaluated for purity and concentration by third-party organizations like the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) is a good sign ensuring our dog receives a safe and effective product.
The Best Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements In 2024
Nutramax Laboratories: Cosequin® and Dasuquin® are joint health supplements highly recommended by vets. They are known for their complete joint support formulas which usually contains ASU (avocado/soya unsaponifiables), glucosamine and chondroitin.
NaturVet offers joint health supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM. Their products are often flavored to be more palatable for pets.
VetriScience Laboratories has a variety of products in the GlycoFlex® line for dogs at different ages and needs that provide support for healthy joints. These items have been well researched and are easy to use.
Zesty Paws makes chews that have curcumin along with glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM to improve joint health. Their products help with mobility and are tasty because they are flavored.
The Advanced Hip & Joint Supplement from Doggie Dailies includes glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and other ingredients that support joints too. Additionally it offers soft chew vitamins which also come flavored.
Conclusion
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are now among the most important substances to promote joint health in dogs. These supplements are appreciated for the possibility to become excellent assistants in rebuilding or maintaining the cartilage. They help in changing the movement capacity and overall well being of many dogs.
Diet supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin are considered quite effective in preventing further joint degeneration in dogs. They are even supported by various personal testimonies and numerous studies.
