Like us, dogs can also suffer from joint problems and pain related to osteoarthritis.

However, there are natural ways to relieve these symptoms and improve your dog’s mobility. Glucosamine is one such popular product, known for its benefits on joints.

In this article, we’ll explore the effects of glucosamine for dogs, recommended dosages, potential contraindications, and other ways to support your pet’s joint health.

 

What is glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a natural substance found in the body of dogs. It plays an essential role in the formation and repair of cartilage, which covers the joints.

It is important to note that although glucosamine is naturally present in your dog’s body, glucosamine production may decline with age.

This is why many veterinarians recommend glucosamine supplements for older dogs or those who are predisposed to joint problems.

 

Glucosamine for dogs: Benefits

Glucosamine has several beneficial effects on our dogs, particularly in supporting joint health and relieving osteoarthritis.

1. Glucosamine and dog joints

Glucosamine plays a crucial role in maintaining your dog’s joint health.

It is an essential component of cartilage, the elastic, flexible tissue that acts as a cushion between bones in joints.

With age , wear and tear , or injury , cartilage can break down, which can lead to pain and inflammation.

Glucosamine supplements help restore this cartilage matrix, thereby improving joint mobility and reducing inflammation and pain associated with various joint conditions.

Also read: My dog ​​suffers from joint pain, how can I help him?

2. Glucosamine and osteoarthritis in dogs

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a common condition in older dogs, although younger dogs can also be affected, especially after serious injuries or accidents.

It is characterized by the progressive breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which can cause pain and inflammation, and ultimately limit your dog’s mobility.

Glucosamine has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs.

It may help reduce inflammation, promote cartilage repair, and slow disease progression .

Also read: CBD for dogs & Osteoarthritis: Effects, Advice, Purchase

3. Glucosamine and improved mobility and flexibility

By strengthening joints and promoting cartilage health, glucosamine can help improve our dogs’ mobility and flexibility.

This can help them stay active and enjoy their daily activities to the fullest.

It can therefore help improve your dog’s quality of life , especially when used in conjunction with an appropriate exercise program and a balanced diet.

Where does glucosamine in dog supplements come from?

Glucosamine used in pet supplements generally comes from two main sources:

Crustacean shells: This is the most common source of glucosamine. Shells of crustaceans, such as shrimp, crabs, and lobsters, contain a high amount of chitin, a substance that contains glucosamine. Manufacturers extract glucosamine from these shells to use in supplements.

Grain Fermentation: Another method of producing glucosamine is to use a fermentation process on grains , such as corn or wheat. This is a popular option for those who prefer a product without animal products.

It is important to note that glucosamine from these two sources is generally chemically the same, although some people may prefer one or the other based on their personal preferences or those of their pet.

 

Glucosamine for dogs : Dosage, format & duration

When it comes to giving glucosamine to your dog, it is essential to follow the proper dosage recommendations.

The recommended dose usually depends on your dog’s weight and size.

It is important to consult your veterinarian before starting any glucosamine treatment to determine the correct dosage for your dog.

Glucosamine dosage for dogs

Generally, the recommended dose of glucosamine for dogs is between 10 and 30 mg per kilogram of body weight .

It can be given once or twice a day , depending on your dog’s individual needs.

It is best to divide the daily dose into two equal doses to ensure optimal absorption and follow the recommendations of the veterinarian as well as the brand.

Glucosamine format for dogs

There are different forms of glucosamine available, including tablets, capsules, and powders.

Botaneo also offers calming chewing sticks containing glucosamine, but also hemp, valerian and chamomile.

Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided with the product you are using to ensure proper administration of glucosamine to your dog.

Duration of administration

Glucosamine is usually given on a long-term basis.

The time it takes to see improvements can vary, but many dog ​​owners report improvement within 4 to 6 weeks , although sometimes it can take up to 12 weeks .

 

Glucosamine for Dogs: Side Effects & Contraindications

Overall, glucosamine is considered a safe supplement for most dogs.

A recent study found no side effects in dogs taking glucosamine supplements 1 .

However, it is important to note that there may be potential side effects in some individuals.

The most commonly reported side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting, diarrhea or flatulence.

If your dog exhibits these symptoms after starting glucosamine treatment, it is recommended that you consult your veterinarian.

Additionally, it is important to note that glucosamine may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners .

If your dog is already on medication, it is essential to discuss the use of glucosamine with your veterinarian to avoid any unwanted interactions.

Finally, it is best not to give glucosamine to dogs with known hypersensitivity to it or to shellfish, as glucosamine may be derived from the shells of marine crustaceans.

 

Glucosamine + chondroitin: a winning combination

Besides glucosamine, chondroitin is another substance often associated with joint health supplements for dogs.

Chondroitin is an important component of cartilage and works synergistically with glucosamine to maintain joint health and mobility.

Chondroitin helps prevent cartilage breakdown and stimulate the production of new cartilage tissue.

It may also have anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce pain associated with joint problems.

The combined use of glucosamine and chondroitin may provide synergistic benefits for joint health in dogs.

A recent scientific study 2 has also evaluated the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs.

The study was conducted on thirty-five dogs and showed that dogs treated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate showed statistically significant improvements in pain, weight bearing, and condition severity at day 70.

Of note, the onset of a significant response was slower for dogs treated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate compared with those treated with carprofen , an NSAID anti-inflammatory drug used in the control of arthritis.