Does my Dog Need Glucosamine?

What is glucosamine and how does it benefit dog’s hip & joint health?

A very well known name in the supplement industry, glucosamine is used for dogs with joint pain and poor joint health. As dogs get older they often start to struggle with joint pain caused by arthritis. This can happen to humans as well, so luckily there is something you can do to help make your dog more comfortable. There are a few different ways you can give your dog the amazing benefits of glucosamine. 

What Is It? 

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that is often paired with chondroitin. It is one of a few different nutraceuticals that is used for dogs with arthritis. Glucosamine is believed to reduce the symptoms of damaged and worn out joints. To do this, glucosamine helps the body repair the damaged cartilage because cartilage cannot repair itself on its own. Glucosamine is known as an amino sugar which promotes the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, or the building blocks of cartilage. 

Side Effects 

While there are very few side effects of glucosamine, it is possible if your dog is given a high dose. These include: 

• Fatigue 
• Allergies 
• Insomnia
• Excessive Thirst or Urination 

Benefits 

The biggest benefit glucosamine is used for is its amazing ability to provide relief from hip and joint pain. Glucosamine is a natural anti-inflammatory which helps a lot with inflamed joints that cause your dog to lose some of his/her mobility. When taking glucosamine your dog will generate new cartilage, gain his/her mobility back, and increase your dog's activity level. 

If your dog is just now starting to experience hip and joint pain, he/she may need a very low dose to help correct the symptoms. Treats formulated for hip and joint health would be a great spot to start. Your dog most likely won’t experience any of the side effects due to the glucosamine dose in the treats being lower. Taking preventive action will benefit your dog in the future. 

 Maybe your dog has been struggling with hip and joint pain for a while now and nothing seems to be helping. If this is the case glucosamine supplements might be the best option for your dog. Talk with your vet to discuss a proper dosage for your dog that will benefit him the most. Glucosamine is a wonderful supplement that can help your dog no matter how long he/she has experienced hip and joint pain. 

You will find glucosamine in our New Hip & Joint Treats! Check them out here!