Glucosamine Chondroitin for Dogs

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In 2012, an examination of studies in humans found that one form — glucosamine hydrochloride — had little effect, while another form — glucosamine sulfate — offered pain relief superior or equal to “the commonly used analgesic or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.” The scientists determined that “the question of the benefit of glucosamine treatment remains largely unanswered.” But, they noted that, because the supplements have “low and rare adverse effects, it represents a viable option for the management of osteoarthritis.” They also expressed the opinion that it could be useful in combination with drugs and other natural products. The carprofen arm experienced statistically significant improvements in GRF values and orthopaedic surgeon assessment scores, but not in subjective owner assessment scores.

As part of the body's connective tissues, chondroitin is vital for joint health. With age or due to certain conditions, the body's chondroitin production can decrease, leading to stiff and painful joints. As a result, chondroitin sulfate is often included as a key ingredient in dietary supplements to support joint health in our dogs. Is Chondroitin Good for Dogs? If your dog appears to be having any trouble with its joints or mobility, then this is a strong indication that chondroitin supplementation would be appropriate. There are several hypothesized reasons for this salt choice in veterinary products. First, the hydrochloride salt from a chemical perspective provides a greater amount of glucosamine per gram than does the sulfate salt despite the fact previous studies report overall lower oral bioavailability (Beale, 2004). The sulfate salt is often stabilized with sodium chloride (NaCl) or potassium chloride (KCl), which may be undesirable in aging canines with potential co-morbid medical conditions such as heart failure, hypertension or renal decline. Although this is a theoretical concern, human clinical trials have not demonstrated increases in blood pressure with NaCl content of crystallized glucosamine sulfate (Herrero-Beaumont et al., 2007; Rovati et al., 2012).Purity, quality, efficacy, dosing, and absorption of glucosamine and chondroitin vary and evidence is limited. There is a need for validated owner questionnaires, long-term studies with objective measures, and a better understanding of their mode of action. The main reason why there is so little data about the effectiveness of these substances isbecause glucosamine and chondroitin can’t be patented. This means large pharmaceutical companies can’t make much money off of them, so they don’t bother spending money researching and developing these supplements. Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to joint issues due to their size, weight, genetics, and physical characteristics. For these breeds, glucosamine and chondroitin can be particularly beneficial. Here are some examples:

Treats: Chondroitin treats are typically the most convenient options for getting this important supplement into your dog’s diet. Why? They’re palatable, coming in various flavors dogs love, and they’re easy to administer since they won’t leave a mess. We suggest using treats provided as a reward following good behavior, tying the treat to positive reinforcement so your dog will be excited to take it! This type of tablet is great for giving you peace of mind that your dog is getting all the vitamins and minerals they need, especially in young and developing dogs, which may not always get it directly from their diets. Canine health and well-being is a multifaceted subject, and joint health plays a significant role within that. Glucosamine and chondroitin are fundamental in maintaining healthy and well-functioning joints in our dogs, and here's why: Chondroitin for dogs, on the other hand, is sourced from marine wildlife and those types of environments. But, scientists and researchers are on the hunt of getting it from other forms as well. Chondroitin is not a consistent substance and it’s usually present in a wide range of forms and how it’s effectiveness is will vary. Supplements With High Levels of Chondroitin For Dogs Taking care of our dogs' health is paramount for every responsible dog owner. Paying close attention to their joint health is an integral part of their overall wellbeing. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can make a significant difference in maintaining the health of your dog's joints and their quality of life, particularly as they age. However, always remember to consult with a vet before starting any new supplement regime for your pet.For oral glucosamine supplements, here’s the daily dosage that one veterinarian recommends to obtain therapeutic levels: Dog Weight Breeds Prone to Arthritis: Older dogs of any breed are at risk of developing arthritis, but some breeds such as Dachshunds, with their long spine, are more prone to conditions like intervertebral disc disease which can lead to inflammation and pain in the joints. In these cases, glucosamine and chondroitin can help alleviate symptoms. As mentioned, many of the best dog joint supplements include glucosamine and chondroitin (most contain other active ingredients too, but glucosamine and chondroitin are undoubtedly the most common). It’s never fun to see your dog struggling to get around, especially when they were very active before. As arthritic or ageing dogs can’t use crutches or wheelchairs, it’s even more important to halt pain at the source to ensure they’re comfortable. Glucosamine helps reduce inflammation - so their stiff and achy limbs will feel eased. Supplements, on the other hand, often provide higher and more concentrated doses of glucosamine and chondroitin. This can make them a better choice for dogs already suffering from joint conditions such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, where a higher dosage may be required for therapeutic effect.