In a recent survey administered to 1,640 iHeartDogs readers, 49% reported that they currently give their dog(s) a joint care supplement. What are the reasons for this, what does the research say, and do they really work?
Glucosamine has been one of the most recommended supplements by veterinarians for the last two decades, and thousands of dog owners swear by it. And although more research is needed, many randomized, double-blinded studies have shown tangible benefits to dogs with osteoarthritis and aging joints.
It’s important to keep in mind that no supplement is a miracle drug, and that preventative care is always more effective than treating an advanced disease. In other words, beginning your dog on a joint supplement when the first signs of joint distress present themselves will likely be more effective than after the disease has progressed.
2 Important Factors To Consider When Choosing a Canine Joint Care Supplement
1) Choose a supplement with multiple active ingredients, instead of just one – While glucosamine is the most recommended and studied joint care nutrient, other ingredients such as chondroitin, MSM, and even turmeric are widely recommended by veterinarians.
2) Pay attention to the dosage of the active ingredients, and compare – The amount of active ingredients (usually stated in milligrams) varies widely among joint care products. If the option you’re considering is significantly cheaper than the rest, it may be due to a low amount of active ingredients in the formula.
Compare & Research Canine Joint Supplements
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
