Chewable Glucosamine for Dogs

Active Dogs can benefit from glucosamine

Active dogs and dogs who are older can benefit from chewable glucosamine. Chewable glucosamine can help keep an active dog active and help a dog who has arthritis or joint problems to become more active and in less pain.

History

Glucosamine products had been used in Europe for more than 20 years before becoming popular in the United States in the 1990s. Veterinarians saw an improvement in their arthritis patients and prescribed glucosamine to dogs to help their joints.

Function

Glucosamine is a nutriceutical, that is, a nutritional supplement that is partway between a pharmaceutical and a nutritional supplement. It provides the building blocks for the body to produce new cartilage when the old cartilage in the joints tear or wear out.

Types

You can get chewable glucosamine as a supplement or you can get it in different forms such as perna canaliculus (green lipped) mussel or shark cartilage. Many tablets have other added supplements such as chondrotin, MSM, vitamins and minerals to help promote cartilage regrowth.

Misconceptions

Glucosamine does not work for all dogs, despite the hype. Some dogs do very well on glucosamine supplements; others show little improvement.

Effects

It usually takes several weeks to months before you see any effects or benefits with glucosamine. It is not a panacea for hip dysplasia or other join diseases, but it may help.

References

• Margaret H. Bonham, "The Compete Idiot's Guide to Dog Health and Nutrition," 2003.
• Pet Education: Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Hip Dysplasia & Arthritis in Dogs

Resources

• KV Vet Supply