How to Use Glucosamine for a Slipping Knee Cap in a Dog

Small dogs are more likely to have slipping kneecaps.

Smaller dogs are more likely to have slipping knee caps, also called luxating patellas. Usually a genetic abnormality, the knee joint develops improperly and the knee cap can luxate (slip) out of place. The condition is graded according to severity and frequency, with grades 1 and 2 being mild or moderate, and grades 3 and 4 being severe and usually warranting surgery. All grades can lead to arthritis as the dog ages, and many veterinarians recommend glucosamine supplements to keep the joint lubricated and ease arthritis pain. Your vet may also suggest glucosamine injections.

Things You'll Need

• Glucosamine supplements

Instructions

1. Take your dog to the vet to have its knee caps evaluated and graded. Your vet will manipulate the knee and will probably take x-rays to determine the severity of your dog's slipping knee cap.

2. Talk to your veterinarian about glucosamine supplements. Some formulas have added ingredients that may also be helpful, such as chrondroitin sulfate, omega-3 fatty acids and and green-lipped mussel. Glucosamine is usually formulated from crab or shrimp shells and has a very low incidence of side effects. Glucosamine supplements are widely available in pet stores and your veterinarian may also sell it.

3. Give your dog glucosamine supplements as directed. Typically they are given once or twice daily, and many glucosamine supplements are formulated with meat flavors so your dog will eat them like treats. You can give glucosamine to your dog for its whole life.

4. Ask your veterinarian about Adequan injections for your dog's knees.. Adequan is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) and is administered by prescription only, as it can have some side effects. Your veterinarian will give your dog a "loading dose" of several injections over the course of 2 or 3 weeks, then maintenance injections every 3 to 6 weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your dog's weight under control for joint health.

• Fish oils (omega-3 fatty acids) are a natural anti-inflammatory, and are a good complement to glucosamine.

• Don't breed a dog who has been diagnosed with luxating patellas. It's a genetic condition and is very likely to be passed on to the offspring.

References

• Mansfield Animal Clinic: Luxating Patella or Kneecap in Dogs
• Orange Villa Veterinary Hospital: Orthopedics: Medial Luxating Patella
• Novartis Animal Health: Adequan

Resources

• Dogaware: Arthritis in Dogs
• The Whole Dog: Luxating Patellas