Joint diseases are very common in dogs, especially in older animals. Injuries can occur at any age, and when they do, supplements used alongside rehabilitation can help restore mobility or relieve pain. This type of addition to the daily diet is also highly relevant for working dogs, whose joints are particularly susceptible to excessive strain.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is unfortunately being diagnosed with increasing frequency in older dogs. However, symptoms of varying severity may occur even in young animals over one year of age. The condition is associated with inflammatory changes and persistent pain, and its treatment is particularly challenging because it involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGE). Unfortunately, they often cause a range of adverse effects. On the other hand, failure to address the symptoms may lead to disease progression and a substantial reduction in joint mobility, consequently decreasing the dog’s quality of life. There is currently no effective causal treatment, only symptomatic therapy. Prevention is therefore crucial, as it can help inhibit cartilage degradation and support the production of synovial fluid.
Chondroitin sulfate (CS) and glucosamine
Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate are substrates used in the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), molecules that serve, among other functions, as structural components of cartilage. They have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to the proper nourishment of cartilage. Studies have found an overall improvement in dogs’ activity levels when both compounds were administered together. Glucosamine-based preparations containing chitosan, a biopolymer produced from chitin, had greater bioavailability and were transported more readily within the body. Significant pain relief was observed in dogs receiving a mixture of glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate combined with undenatured type II collagen. However, more recent research indicates that chondroitin and glucosamine do not produce the desired effects in every animal with osteoarthritis, meaning they cannot always be relied upon for pain relief.
Undenatured type II collagen
Type II collagen is becoming an increasingly common ingredient in supplements. It is obtained through the enzymatic hydrolysis of collagen-containing tissues, predominantly bone. When produced under appropriate hygienic conditions, it is completely safe to use. It is valued for its glycine and proline content—amino acids that support the regeneration and healthy condition of articular cartilage. It helps reduce joint pain and increase joint mobility. Dogs given collagen supplements have shown a greater willingness to be physically active, which may also improve their overall health.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, derived mainly from fish oil, are another ingredient found in many supplements that support canine joints. A diet rich in these fatty acids has been found to reduce lameness and overall joint inflammation, as well as improve walking ability in animals with osteoarthritis. It also helps slow the progression of the disease. Studies of dogs receiving omega-3 fatty acids over an extended period have shown reduced levels of inflammatory markers. Green-lipped mussels can also provide omega-3 fatty acids, more specifically in the form of a lipid extract that is additionally rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
What else can we do to help our dog remain mobile?
Remember that supplements are intended to support our dog’s physical function, but they never replace treatment. The best results are achieved by combining prescribed medications with an appropriate dose of supplementation. We all want our dogs to enjoy a comfortable life and remain active for as long as possible. Prevention is therefore important. We should ensure an appropriate amount of daily exercise and, when necessary, provide physiotherapy or physical therapy. A complete and balanced diet and the maintenance of a healthy body weight are equally important.
Sources:
- McCarthy G, O'Donovan J, Jones B, McAllister H, Seed M, Mooney C. (2007). Randomised double-blind, positive-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate for the treatment of dogs with osteoarthritis. The Veterinary Journal, 174(1), 54–61.
- Comblain F, Serisier S, Barthelemy N, Balligand M, Henrotin Y. Review of dietary supplements for the management of osteoarthritis in dogs in studies from 2004 to 2014. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2016;39(1):1–15.
- Barbeau-Grégoire M, Otis C, Cournoyer A, Moreau M, Lussier B, Troncy E. (2022). A 2022 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Enriched Therapeutic Diets and Nutraceuticals in Canine and Feline Osteoarthritis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(18), 10384.