Does My Dog Need a Joint Supplement? Expert Recommendations

Remember the old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? When it comes to protecting your dog’s joints, the expression holds. Many people believe that joint supplements are only necessary when your dog shows symptoms of canine arthritis. But good joint care can also include prevention. Supplements can help with that, too.

It can be hard to sort fact from fiction with all the buzz about joint supplements. So let’s take a closer look at the most effective supplements for dogs, and what to look for in supplement products.

Do hip and joint supplements work for dogs?

Yes, some types of hip and joint supplements do seem to work for dogs. They can help manage the pain and inflammation related to arthritis as well as protect against further damage to your dog’s joints and cartilage. There’s also some evidence that hip and joint supplements may help prevent arthritis from developing in the first place. 

However, not all supplements are created equal. We’ll cover the best joint supplements for your dog below, all of which have evidence that they work. It can also be difficult to determine which products contain enough of the active ingredients to help your dog. We’ve got some info on that, too, and how to ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.

What are the most effective hip and joint supplements for dogs?

Here are common joint supplements that are proven to be effective for dogs. These have significant scientific data showing that they can help your pup.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine hydrochloride has been used to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with joint damage and arthritis. Studies have found that once glucosamine levels build up in a dog’s body, some dogs with arthritis experience less pain and increased ability to bear weight.

Chondroitin

Many joint supplements include both glucosamine and chondroitin. Evidence shows that glucosamine and chondroitin may work best when given together. Experts believe that the substances are absorbed faster when taken in combination.

Studies on glucosamine and chondroitin in dogs with arthritis found that the supplements reduced inflammation, helped with pain, and slowed joint damage. But these were only effective when the compounds reached therapeutic levels. 

This means that the amount of the supplement has to reach and remain at a specific level in your dog’s blood. If it is not at the desired level, the dog may not experience the potential benefits or could be at risk of negative effects.

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CBD

CBD is an active ingredient found in the cannabis plant. There’s some evidence that CBD may decrease pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis. It may also help your pup move easier. If you want to try CBD for your dog, look for CBD oil specifically for dogs. 

Never give your dog cannabis that contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive ingredient found in the cannabis plant. THC can be toxic for dogs, especially if they consume a large amount of it. THC poisoning can lead to symptoms such as:

• Lack of appetite

• Vomiting

• Incoordination and stumbling

• Glassy eyes

• Agitation or anxiety

• Tremors and shaking

• Drooling

• Dilated pupils

• Slow response time

Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids 

Inflammation plays a significant role in the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids help encourage the body’s natural anti-inflammatory properties. So omega-3 supplements may assist with arthritis-associated inflammation.

If you want to add omega-3s to your dog's diet because of existing arthritis, ask your vet about a supplement. Generally, foods and treats don't contain enough omega-3 fatty acids to help dogs with joint problems. The top sources of omega-3 fatty acids for dogs are fish oil and krill oil. 

Green-lipped mussel

Green-lipped mussel (GLM) is an ingredient found in many joint supplements. It has various nutrients that support joint health, including:

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Amino acids

• Antioxidants

• Vitamins and minerals

GLM also contains glycosaminoglycans, molecules that may help lubricate joints, cartilage, and tendons. 

Many manufacturers make powdered dog supplements containing GLM. It is easy to add to kibble or canned food, and most dogs are attracted to fishy odors. If your dog is skeptical, you can mix the powder into frozen summer treats or bone broth to conceal it.

Some dog food manufacturers may include GLM as an ingredient in their foods and treats. Check the label, and ask your vet how much of the supplement is right for your dog.

Avocado/soybean unsaponifiables

Avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASUs) is a supplement created from the oils of avocados and soybeans. These oils may help reduce inflammation. 

Some evidence suggests that ASUs can help reduce your dog’s arthritis pain similar to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). But ASUs may also prevent damage to your dog’s cartilage and joints. 

Undenatured type II collagen

Undenatured type II collagen (UC II) is a substance found in chickens and eggshells that shows promise for helping dogs with arthritis. Small studies suggest that dogs given UC II experienced less pain and were more active. 

Popular hip and joint supplements for dogs that may not be worth it

You may have heard of other popular joint supplements. Most of these don’t appear to be harmful if taken in appropriate doses. But scientific evidence does not show that they really help with canine arthritis. In fact, a lot of the evidence is based on humans, not dogs.

If you see the following supplements marketed for joint pain in dogs, be cautious before taking the leap. Ask your veterinarian for guidance first. 

Turmeric and curcumin

You should not give your dog turmeric for joint pain (or any reason, for that matter). Turmeric and curcumin, which is found in the turmeric root, are popular supplements for humans. But turmeric is not considered safe for dogs. And though a couple studies indicate that curcumin could prevent inflammation, it isn’t well absorbed by dogs. This means it may not really be effective.

Boswellia 

Boswellia is an extract made from the bark of a tree. It is listed as an ingredient in several commercial dog supplements, largely because of its anti-inflammatory properties. But right now, there isn’t enough evidence to support its use in dogs. 

Studies of active boswellia on arthritic pets did indicate a reduction in pain. But the reports of pets having less pain were primarily owner reported and therefore lacked scientific evidence to support its use. 

Additionally, the amount of active boswellia in consumer products differed too much to determine the appropriate dosage. Researchers also found differences between the active amounts of the ingredient stated on product labels and the amount detected in the product. This makes it difficult to ensure the supplements have enough boswellia to have any benefit.

Methylsulfonylmethane

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a substance found in plants and animals. It’s a natural source of sulfur. Sulfates — variations on sulfur — help cartilage absorb water that acts as a cushion around joints. And because of this, some experts think MSM might help with joint-related pain in dogs. However, there is currently no evidence MSM can help dogs with arthritis.

Creatine

Athletes commonly use creatine to build muscles, help with exercise recovery, and prevent injuries. But it’s not going to do anything to help your dog’s arthritis pain or mobility issues. 

When should your dog start taking joint supplements?

Certain dogs are more at risk of developing joint problems because of their breed, size, activity level, or previous illness or injury. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s activity, diet, and overall risk level.

If your dog has pain and mobility issues, damage to the joints and cartilage has probably already occurred. Joint supplements may help manage existing symptoms and prevent further deterioration. 

However, many dogs start developing joint problems long before they show signs. Some dogs begin to have joint issues before they are fully grown. If you have a dog who’s predisposed to joint issues like hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis, you may want to begin a regular joint supplement earlier in your dog’s life. 

Talk to your vet about joint health and arthritis as early as possible. Many supplements are safe for dogs to take beginning at 1 year old. 

What to look for in hip and joint supplements for dogs

Dog supplements, like human vitamins and supplements, aren’t regulated or tested for safety and effectiveness. So as a consumer, some of the research is left to you. You can start by knowing which ingredients and signs of quality to look for in joint supplements.

Many products list CBD oil or glucosamine and chondroitin as ingredients. But that doesn't mean the product contains enough of the substance to benefit your dog.

Additionally, don’t assume that your human vitamin supplements will be safe for your furry friend. Some human supplements contain ingredients — such as the highly poisonous sweetener xylitol — that are toxic to dogs.

Here are some ways you can ensure that you are buying the safest quality supplements for your dog.

NASC quality seal

Make sure to purchase supplements that display the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Quality Seal. Companies that display the NASC Quality Seal go through extra steps to show that they make reliable products. 

Third-party testing

Look for a supplement that has been third-party tested. Third-party testing means the supplement was tested by a company that wasn’t involved in its sale or manufacturing. Third-party testing can show that the product:

• Has been properly manufactured

• Contains the ingredients it lists on the label

• Does not contain harmful levels of toxins

Taste and smell

If you want a supplement your dog will readily eat, consider one that comes in a flavored chew or treat. Remember to store flavored supplements and medicines out of paw's reach. Dogs can mistake flavored joint supplements for treats. Even health additives can be dangerous in large quantities.

When not to give your dog supplements

With all the hype about supplements protecting your dog’s joints, your dog still might not need them at all. Some veterinary professionals agree that if your dog eats a nutritionally balanced diet, supplements might not be necessary. In fact, they can be dangerous. 

Commercial pet foods are made to give your pet the right amount of nutrients. If you are supplementing with additional vitamins and minerals, there is a chance your dog could be at risk of toxicity.

Always speak to your vet to make sure supplements won’t interfere with current medications your dog takes. Also, get a recommendation from your veterinarian so that you don’t spend money on unnecessary supplements. In some cases, over-the-counter supplements may not be the best way to get your dog the joint support they need.

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Written by:

Lauren Lee, BA, MA

Lauren Lee, BA, MA, is a writer specializing in animal care and pet health content. Since she was a young child, her passions have been writing and anything to do with animals.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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