Glucosamine for Small Dogs

Small dogs can benefit from glucosamine supplements.

Glucosamine is a natural substance that is found in synovial fluid, connective tissues and cartilage in dogs. Over time, the glucosamine levels break down, causing arthritis and joint conditions that come with discomfort and pain. Glucosamine is available as an over-the-counter medication for dogs of all sizes, supplementing the broken-down glucosamine to prevent joint and bone problems as the dog ages. Small dogs are prone to joint issues, and glucosamine supplements can benefit them as they age. (Always check with your vet first, though, before giving your pet this or any other supplemental product.)

Description

Glucosamine supplements for small dogs offer anti-inflammatory properties, potentially easing pain and discomfort in small limbs by relieving the inflammation caused by arthritis and joint issues. Glucosamine supplements are distributed throughout the body, including in the tissues where cartilage and tissue can be repaired and swelling reduced. Glucosamine supplements can also relieve stiffness, potentially reducing mobility issues that many small dog breeds experience in the aging process.

Availability

Glucosamine supplements for small dogs are available in several different forms including pills, tablets, chews and liquid supplements. A powdered form of glucosamine and other joint and bone supplements can be mixed with food. One brand of glucosamine supplements is available in a soft chew form, which is flavored like a dog treat, making it easier to administer.

Benefits

Rather than pinpointing a single issue, glucosamine supplements can improve a number of problems relating to bone and joint health in small dogs. Not only can glucosamine be administered when a specific problem has come about, such as through aging, but you can administer it to a small dog from a young age in order to help reduce the breakdown of synovial fluids and cartilage, preventing the general degeneration joints, bones and the body of the dog as a whole.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose for glucosamine is between 250 and 500 milligrams for dogs up to 30 pounds, according to Caroline Tanaka, DVM. If you are unsure about how much glucosamine to administer, consult the manufacturer instructions on the packaging for the product, or consult your family veterinarian for advice. Many glucosamine supplements available commercially also include chondroitin and MSM, and this may have an impact on the dosage requirements.

Precautions

Glucosamine is generally a safe supplement for small dogs when used as directed or prescribed. Glucosamine is capable of elevating blood glucose levels since it is an animosugar, but this does not typically present a problem in small dogs. Diabetic dogs receiving glucosamine therapy should have their blood glucose level monitored on a regular basis to be safe. Before administering a glucosamine supplement, consult your veterinarian for feedback.

References

• Caroline Tanaka, DVM; Veterinarian; Austin, Texas
• "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook;" Debra M. Eldredge, DVM; 2007