Whether your dog is showing signs of arthritis or you’d like to start your pup on joint supplements for dogs early on, you’ve come to the right spot.  As a dog’s body ages, like people, all organs, tissues, and bone structures in the body age as well.

Arthritis simply means painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. Dogs are really good at hiding pain, so it’s up to diligent dog moms and dads to get a proper diagnosis and choose the best joint supplements for dogs. Any number of things can instigate canine arthritis and joint pain, including age, injury, accidents, and even diet, as overweight dogs are likely to suffer more bone and joint pain along with other issues. 

There is no cure for canine arthritis, but there are joint care products for dogs that can help ease pain, inflammation, and coat the joint and cartilage. Including hip and joint support supplements prior to damage can help your dog stay comfortable. 

Our Top Picks

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Overall Dog Joint Supplement

Our pick: Finn Hip & Joint Supplement

Finn Hip & Joint Supplement

20% off all orders with code VETSTREET20 at Finn

Active IngredientsGlucosamine HCL, methyl sulfonyl methane, organic turmeric, chondroitin sulfate, green lipped mussel, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin E, yucca, BioPerine(R)
Other IngredientsCoconut glycerin, dried brewer’s yeast, dried cultured skim milk, mixed tocopherols (natural preservative), natural bacon flavor, natural beef liver, natural cheese flavor, natural flavor, organic honey, purified water, safflower oil, sunflower lecithin, tapioca starch
Supplement TypeSoft chew

We love an all-around option for solid joint support, and that’s exactly what Finn Hip & Joint provides. Formulated with ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric, it’s designed to assist with sporadically stiff joints, support cartilage development, and encourage mobility and flexibility. Plus, it’s ideal for pups of all ages and comes in a recycled steel canister.

Highlights

  • Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric to help with intermittent joint stiffness
  • Also supports cartilage development and mobility/flexibility
  • 100% recycled/recyclable steel packaging 
  • Great for all life stages
  • Finn maintains high quality/safety standards for every batch

Things to Consider

  • Some customers reported a strong smell

Best Dog Joint Supplement with PEA

Our pick: Life Extension DOG Hip & Joint Soft Chews

Life Extension supplement for hip and joints for dogs
Active IngredientsGlucosamine Hydrochloride, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
Other IngredientsCanola oil, chickpea flour, desiccated beef liver powder, glycerin, guar gum, mixed tocopherols, sorbic acid, stevia, sunflower lecithin, tapioca flour, water.
Supplement TypeSoft chew

Life Extension has you covered for pet parents who want their dogs to have the addition of PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) to help fight occasional hip and joint discomfort. PEA is a naturally occurring fatty acid that binds to cells in your dog’s body. Life Extension includes PEA in their chewable hip and joint supplement for dogs. Designed for dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes, the beef-flavored chews also include a glucosamine complex for complete joint support. As a bonus, the chews can be used with other Life Extension canine products for complete wellness.

Highlights

  • Contains no artificial colors or flavors
  • Made in America
  • Most dogs love the delectable beef flavor
  • Easy-to-administer format means no more sneaking pills in food
  • Developed by scientists based on canine veterinary research
  • Designed for daily and long-term usage
  • Generous 90-chew container
  • Savings for pet parents on auto-delivery

Things to Consider

  • Not designed for dogs under one year of age
  • Consult your veterinarian if your dog is pregnant before administering
  • One flavor available at this time
  • Number of chews to feed depends on your dog’s weight

Best Vet-Recommended Dog Joint Supplement

Our pick: Dasuquin with MSM by Nutramax

Dasuquin with MSM by Nutramax
Active IngredientsGlucosamine hydrochloride, MSM, sodium chondroitin sulfate, ASU powder, boswellia serrata extract, green tea extract
Other IngredientsBrewers dried yeast, dextrose, lecithin, microcrystalline cellulose, natural and artificial flavor, silicone dioxide, soy protein isolate
DosageUnder 10 pounds = ½ tablet, 10-29 pounds = 1 tablet for 4-6 weeks and ½ tablet afterwards, 30-59 pounds = 2 tablets for 4-6 weeks and 1 tablet afterwards
Supplement TypeTablet

As a young dog, my Cocker Spaniel started on Cosequin and we advanced to Dasuquin after his leg surgeries to promote joint health and help slow the onset of arthritis. We switched to Dasuquin after reading reviews and learning about the additional ingredients, such as ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables), which is an ingredient concentrated directly from avocados and soybeans that is used for joint health. This pick is great for dogs who are slowing down on walks or hesitant to jump or climb into cars. 

Highlights

  • Available in a chewable or tablet for both small and large dogs 
  • Takes about four to six weeks for dogs to respond, though some dogs respond much sooner
  • Can be used to support joint cartilage in dogs following surgery
  • Contains green tea extract which is rich in antioxidants
  • Dual-synergistic formula to stimulate cartilage via chondroitin sulfate and act in tandem with ASU and glucosamine for joint support
  • Nutramax was founded in 1992 and has a long history of safe, high quality products for dogs and cats 

Things to Consider

  • Some reviews mention the dog refuses to eat the chewable version 
  • Tablets are thick, so may need to be concealed with cheese or peanut butter 
  • Nutramax also makes a Dasuquin Advanced formula available only through veterinarians

Veterinarian Video Review of Dasuquin

Best Dog Supplement Powder with Hip and Joint Support

Our pick: Honest Paws Mobility Joint Powder

Honest Paws mobility joint supplements for dogs

Get 15% off your order with code VETSTREET at Honest Paws

Active IngredientsGlucosamine HCI (shellfish), Green lipped mussel powder, fish oil, chondroitin sulfate (bovine), MSM, vitamin C, boswellia serrata, manganese gluconate, hyaluronic acid
Other IngredientsNatural flavors
DosageUnder 25 pounds = 1/2 scoop, 25-50 pounds = 1 scoop, 50+ pounds = 2 scoops
Supplement TypePowder

What if you could relieve your dog’s hip and joint stiffness and keep them active as they age, so they’re able to enjoy life to the fullest? Honest Paws’ powder joint supplement, Mobility, may be just the answer. Ideal for all ages, this powder combines blend of powerful active ingredients to get the job done, including green lipped muscle and boswellia serrata. The New Zealand native green lipped muscle works to enhance shock absorption and lessen wear and tear by protecting the joint capsule. Plus, it provides natural anti-inflammatory and joint-lubricating benefits. Boswellia serrata, which is obtained from an Indian frankincense-producing plant, helps to promote the health of joints and connective tissues. Dogs will love the bacon popcorn flavor, and pet parents will love how easy it is to mix in with their pup’s food.

Highlights

  • Contains green lipped muscle and boswellia serrata to help protect/promote healthy joints
  • Assists with mobility
  • Ideal for all ages/sizes
  • Customers said their pups love the bacon popcorn flavor
  • Non GMO, organic formula contains no artificial flavors
  • Made in the USA and tested by a third-party lab

Things to Consider

  • If you have a larger dog, you will run through your supply faster. Suggested serving is 1/2 scoop for dogs weighing less than 25 pounds, 1 scoop for dogs 25-50 pounds, and 2 scoops for dogs 50 pounds or more

Best Chewable Joint Supplement for Seniors and Athletic Dogs

Our pick: PSCH Phycox Max 90 Count Canine Soft Chews

Phycox Max canine soft chews joint supplement
Active IngredientsPhycox, glucosamine HCI, MSM, creatine monohydrate, flaxseed Oil, proprietary blend of alpha lipoic acid, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), calcium phosphate, citrus bioflavonoids, grape seed extract, manganese sulfate, and zinc sulfate
Other IngredientsUnknown
DosageUnder 30 pounds = ½ – 1 chew for 4-6 weeks and ½ chew every other day afterwards, 31-60 pounds = 1-2 chews for 4-6 weeks and ½ chew daily afterwards, 61-120 pounds = 2-3 chews for 4-6 weeks and 1 chew daily afterwards, 120+ pounds = 4-5 chews for 4-6 weeks and 2 chews daily afterwards
Supplement TypeSoft chew

Phycox MAX soft chews are designed for dogs of all ages but are particularly helpful for seniors and athletes. The 3X Phycox formula contains an extract of blue-green algae called phycocyanin, which functions as both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory. Geared toward the more mature dogs and athletes, the balanced blend receives many 5-star accolades in Amazon reviews.

Highlights

  • Quality seal from the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council)
  • Phycocyanin is clinically proven to inhibit COX-2, an inflammation-causing enzyme
  • Meets the needs of elderly and more severely arthritic dogs
  • Ideal for breeds and dogs of all sizes
  • The chewable format is easier on senior teeth and gums

Things to Consider

  • The number of daily chews to dispense varies by the weight of the dogs
  • The initial loading dose is four to six weeks
  • The side effects noted by the manufacturer: may cause skin rash, wheezing, or sneezing in people allergic to molasses or barbeque products
  • Each chew contains 27.75 calories

Best Arthritis Supplement For Dogs

Our pick: Liquid Health K9 Glucosamine

Liquid Health K9 Glucosamine
Active IngredientsGlucosamine HCl, chondroitin sulfate, MSM, manganese chelate, hyaluronic acid 
Other Ingredients100% pure aloe vera juice, citric acid, potassium sorbate, tripled filtered water, sodium benzoate, stevia, vegetable glycerin
DosageUnder 10 pounds = 1 teaspoon, 10-24 pounds = 2 teaspoons, 25-49 pounds = 2 teaspoons in the morning and 1 teaspoon at night, 50-100 pounds = 2 teaspoons in the morning and 2 teaspoons at night, 100+ pounds = 3 teaspoons in the morning and 3 teaspoons at night
Supplement TypeLiquid

According to some estimates, at least 25 percent of all dogs will develop joint mobility issues of some kind in their lifetime. A canine joint supplement used early in life may help joints endure the impact while preserving cartilage function. The Liquid Health K9 Glucosamine supplement scores high points and praise for many reasons.

Highlights 

  • Easy-to-use liquid form
  • Combines five supplements in one effective formula
  • Features USP (United States Pharmacopeia) grade glucosamine and chondroitin
  • No sugar, wheat, gluten, yeast, milk, or soy derivatives 
  • Perfect for dogs of all ages, see label for weight and dosing suggestions

Things to Consider

  • Has not been proven to be safe in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding purposes
  • Must be refrigerated after opening 
  • Some dogs may not enjoy a liquid on their food 

Veterinarian Review of Liquid Health K9 Glucosamine

Best Senior Dog Joint Supplement

Our pick: Vet Classics Joint Support Plus

Vet Classics Joint Support Plus
Active IngredientsGlucosamine sulfate, calcium ascorbate (Vitamin C), green lipped mussel, MSM, sea cucumber, polygonum, angelica sinensis, rehmannia, alfalfa powder, manganese, vitamin E 
Other IngredientsBrewers dried yeast, canola oil, dried potato product, flaxseed, glycerin, lecithin, maltodextrin, mixed tocopherols, natural flavoring, rosemary extract, sorbic acid, tapioca starch, vegetable oil, water
DosageUnder 25 pounds = 1 chew, 26-50 pounds = 2 chews, 51-100 pounds = 4 chews, 100+ pounds = 6 chews
Supplement TypeSoft chew

Many dogs suffer from hip arthritis as the cartilage wears away. Each soft chew or chewable tablet from Vet Classics is infused with ingredients like sea cucumber, MSM, glucosamine sulfate, and green-lipped mussel not found in some other joint support products. Specifically designed for dogs over the age of 2 years old, Vet Classics recommends this dog hip and joint supplement, especially for senior dogs. 

Highlights

  • Designed to help alleviate discomfort from daily exercise 
  • Available in a soft chew or chewable tablet
  • Green lipped mussel and sea cucumber combined with MSM and glucosamine sulfate help support connective tissue, synovial fluid, and joint cartilage in dogs
  • Contains powerful antioxidants
  • Contains botanical ingredients to help support liver, kidney, and spleen function

Things to Consider

  • Some reviews indicate the chewable tablet is hard and compressed but easy to snap in half for administration
  • For dogs 2 years of age and older
  • Labeling indicates available through veterinarians only but we found it available online as well

Best Large Dog Joint Supplement

Our Pick: Actistatin Canine Large Dog Joint Chews

Actistatin Canine Large Dog Joint Chews
Active IngredientsGlucosamine HCL, N-Acetyl D, ascorbate, manganese, cetylmyristoleate, MSM, actistatin, proprietary blend of green chlorella, licorice extract, potassium citrate, N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine, collagen, omega-3 complex
Other IngredientsFlaxseed oil, glycerin, marine lipid concentrates, molasses, natural liver flavor, polyethylene oxide, soybean oil sucrose, vegetable fiber, vegetable shortening
Dosage31-50 pounds = 1 chew, 51-100 pounds = 2 chews, 101+ pounds = 3 chews
Supplement TypeSoft chews

Larger dogs should be given a joint supplement designed specifically for them. And Actistatin soft chews feature a variety of powerhouse ingredients to help medium and large dogs get moving again. Each chew contains a triple-patented formula that includes glucosamine, chondroitin, manganese, and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants to help support overall joint health. The chews have also been clinically proven to naturally increase the production of hyaluronan or hyaluronic acid (HA), the synovial joint fluid found naturally in all joints. Pretty cool, right?

Highlights

  • Formulated specifically for large dogs
  • Available in two sizes: 60 chews and 120 chews
  • Combines powerhouse ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, manganese, and MSM
  • Fatty acids and antioxidants also help support joint health
  • Clinically proven to increase joint fluid
  • Often recommended by veterinarians
  • Manufacturer is a member of the National Animal Supplement Council and Natural Products Association

Things to Consider

Best Small Dog Joint Supplement

Our Pick: Cetyl M Advanced Dog Joint Action Tablets

Cetyl M Advanced Dog Joint Action Tablets joint supplements for dogs
Active IngredientsCetyl myristoleate, glucosamine HCl, garlic root, bromelain, ginger root extract
Other IngredientsDried whey, lipase, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, natural liver and vegetable flavor, silicon dioxide
DosageUnder 25 pounds = 2 tablets per day for 4-6 weeks and then 1 tablet per day afterwards, 26-50 pounds = 4 tablets per day for 4-6 weeks and then 2 tablets per day afterwards, 51-75 pounds = 6 tablets per day for 4-6 weeks and then 3 tablets per day afterwards, 76-100 pounds = 8 tablets per day for 4-6 weeks and then 4 tablets per day afterwards, 100+ pounds = 10 tablets per day for 4-6 weeks and then 5 tablets per day afterwards
Supplement TypeSoft tablet

These easy-to-chew, meat-flavored tablets are veterinarian recommended and though they can be given to large dogs, less are required for small pooches. For dogs under 25 pounds, the initial period is two tablets per day and then one tablet per day thereafter for maintenance. For dogs over 101 pounds, the initial loading dose would be 10 tablets per day and 5 as maintenance. Other than the outstanding aspects of the Cetyl Advanced Joint Tablets, there are less doses involved for smaller dogs.

Highlights

  • Touted as containing a 100 percent plant-derived source of Cetyl Myristoleate from the African Kombo Nut
  • Also contains glucosamine HCl, garlic root, bromelain, and ginger root extract for joint support
  • 120 tablets per bottle, nicely priced
  • Unique blend of esterified fatty acids 

Things to Consider

  • More than one tablet per day for an initial four to six-week period of time
  • Contains dried whey if dogs have food sensitivities
  • No specific large dog blend

Best Back Support Supplement for Dogs

Our pick: VetriScience Vetri Disc Capsules for Dogs

VetriScience Vetri Disc for dog back
IngredientsActive Ingredients Per Capsule: Bovine Tracheal Cartilage (Source of Chondroitin-4-and-6-Sulfates) 200 mg Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 100 mg Pectin 100 mg L-Taurine 50 mg Manganese (as Manganese Sulfate) 30 mg L-Serine 30 mg Calcium (as Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Ascorbate) 25 mg Equisetum arvense 10 mg Magnesium (as Magnesium Sulfate) 10 mg Pyridoxine HCl (Vitamin B6) 10 mg Potassium (as Potassium Citrate) 9.5 mg Pepsin 5 mg Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) 1.8 mg Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) 30 IU Inactive Ingredient: gelatin, rice flour.
DosageUnder 15 pounds = 1 capsule, 16-35 pounds = 2 capsules, 36-80 pounds = 3 capsules, 80+ pounds = 4 capsules
Supplement TypeCapsules

VetriScience’s unique Vetri-Disc formulation is designed exclusively to support spinal connective tissues. It is targeted to reduce pain, improve mobility, and all in the form of an easy-to-administer capsule format. Some pet parents may prefer to sprinkle the contents on their pet’s food or wrap them in a pill pocket-type edible product.

Highlights

  • Unlike chews with calories, each capsule is just 2 calories each
  • Targeted specifically for your dog’s back
  • Made in the USA
  • Designed for dogs of all ages, but always check with your veterinarian first
  • Made to support and maintain connective tissue in dogs of all sizes

Things to Consider

  • It may take four to six weeks to see results.
  • Amount dispensed daily depends on your dog’s weight
  • Best if taken with a meal to prevent gastrointestinal upset

Veterinarian Review of Daily Great

Best Joint Treat For Dogs

Our Pick: Bixbi Hip and Joint Dog Treats

Bixbi Hip and Joint Dog Treats
IngredientsChicken, sweet potato, vegetable glycerin, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Salt, Citric Acid (A Preservative), Vinegar, Mixed Tocopherols (A Preservative), Rosemary Extract
Dosage6-15 pounds = ½ strip, 16-25 pounds = 1 strip, 26-50 pounds = 2 strips, 51-75 pounds = 3 strips, 76-100 pounds = 4 strips, 101+ pounds = 5 strips
Supplement TypeTreat strips

Imagine being able to give your dog a USA-sourced grass-fed beef or free-range chicken treat that they think is yummy but you know contains a powerful USA-sourced glucosamine and chondroitin formula. The folks at Bixbi cover all bases with their hip and joint dog treats designed to provide joint relief in dogs as they chew to their heart’s content.

Highlights

  • Ingredients are USA sourced
  • Free of grain, wheat, corn, soy, or sugar
  • Available in beef liver or chicken formulas
  • Rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to support dog hip and joint health
  • 22 percent crude protein in beef liver formula, 26 percent protein minimum in crude chicken formula

Things to Consider

  • Only available in a 12-ounce bag
  • Only available in chicken and beef liver formulas
  • One size treat; always supervise dogs when feeding treats 
  • Contains rosemary extract—talk to your vet if your dog has epilepsy before feeding

Best Joint Chews for Dog Hips and Joints

Our Pick: VetIQ Hip & Joint Soft Chews

joint supplements for dogs from VetIQ
IngredientsGluocosamine HCL, Fish Oil, Krill, Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), DocosahexaeniocAcid (DHA), Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Vitamin E, Manganese, Grape Seed Extract, Hyaloronic Acid. Inactive ingredients: Acetic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Beet Molasses, Brewers Dried Yeast, Caramel Color, Dried Whey, Gelatin, Glycerin, Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Natural Chicken Flavors, Selenium, Soy Lecithin, Spray Dried Chicken Liver, Tapioca, Rosemary Extract, Soy Lecithin, Pork Gelatin
Dosage5-15 pounds =1 chew every other day, 16-30 pounds =1 chew daily, 31-60 pounds =2 chews daily, 61-100 pounds =4 chews daily, over 100 pounds =5 chews daily
Supplement TypeSoft chew

These veterinarian-recommended soft chews are designed to ease joint stiffness and promote healthy cartilage, joints, and muscles in dogs. Each chew is made in the USA with chicken flavor in a tender chewable treat format. In addition to glucosamine and MSM in each serving, there is also krill for maximum joint and hip support.

Highlights

  • Available in standard strength or advanced strength
  • Made in America with globally sourced ingredients
  • Also contains chondroitin, glucosamine, green lipped mussel, and natural QRILL from Antarctic krill
  • Designed for all life stages and breeds

Things to Consider

  • For maximum benefit, double the dosage for the first 2-3 weeks of use.
  • Only available in one flavor option
  • Contains rosemary extract—talk to your vet if your dog has epilepsy before feeding

Understanding Dog Joint Health: An Overview

Dogs are an active species. From running after a tennis ball to leaping off a porch, every time a dog engages in some sort of movement or exercise, his joints are involved. Each joint in a dog’s body contains a cartilaginous surface. Cartilage is the spongy, watery pad that absorbs shock each time a bone moves. When cartilage is compromised and bone is damaged from arthritis, dogs feel pain. 

As a dog ages, his cartilage thins out and provides less cushion and support to the joint. When joints break down, arthritis and inflammation occur. If the dog’s joint is inflamed, enzymes get released and break down the cartilage. As dogs run, play, jump, and walk, joints are impacted every single time and with every single movement. Injury and accidents also affect the integrity of bones and joints.

How We Ranked Our Top Joint Supplements for Dogs

As a dog mom to several Cocker Spaniels with arthritis, I’ve tried my fair share of joint supplements. I’ve talked to veterinarians, orthopedic surgeons, and other dog parents to get recommendations, opinions, and thoughts on a variety of joint care products for dogs.

For this article, we looked at reviews, ingredients, safety and efficacy, price point, availability for all sizes of dogs, and consumer reviews posted online. When it comes to the joint supplements on this list, there is no one size fits all, so we include a variety of products since no two dogs are alike. 

Dog Joint Supplement Buying Guide

Portrait of Labrador retriever smiling

The best joint supplements for dogs are designed to promote healthy cartilage and joint health. Like people, a supplement that works for one dog may not produce the same effect in another. 

When shopping for dog joint supplements keep these strategies and tips in mind.

Use Dog Joint Supplements as a Preventative Measure

“I like at-risk dogs on basic joint support from a year of age, and dogs with an early diagnosis of joint disorders on it even sooner,” says Dr. Laurie S. Coger of The Healthy Dog Workshop. “These products are most effective prior to the development of arthritis in that they are preventative strategies, not treatments.”

As a dog’s body ages and even before arthritis develops, dogs lose the natural ability to produce healthy cartilage, so joint supplements can help to support a dog’s aging bones. Aging is not a disease, but rather a normal stage of a dog’s life. The dog joint supplements in this article will help guide you in keeping your best buddy active, pain-free, and moving well into his golden years.  

Look for Key Ingredients

Dr. Coger says the best joint supplements for dogs contain certain key ingredients. These include:

Glucosamine: This is a compound that is produced naturally in the body and helps maintain and repair a dog’s cartilage and reduce inflammation.

MSM: Methylsulfonylmethane is another compound found in animals, including humans, that reduces inflammation and is often used in arthritis treatments for both people and pets. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids, often found in fish oil, nuts, and other foods, also help to combat inflammation and can help with blood flow. 

Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, another powerful anti-inflammatory that also has antioxidant and anticoagulant properties.

Boswellia: This herbal extract that is often added to joint supplements can reduce pain and inflammation and improve mobility in dogs. 

Find a Reputable Manufacturer

Dog joint supplements are not regulated by the FDA or other regulatory organizations, so it’s important to do you research and find companies that you can trust. Look for products that are formulated by or endorsed by veterinarians. Seek out manufacturers that can show third-party testing for safety and efficacy. Ingredients should also be clearly marked on the label and the supplement should not make sweeping claims about their product. You could also look for the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal of approval, which demonstrates that the supplement has been evaluated by the organization. 

Don’t Skip Other Therapies

Coger recommends using joint supplements in conjunction with physical therapy such as an underwater treadmill, exercises, and low-level laser therapy. Don’t expect joint supplements alone to treat or manage your dog’s condition.

Dog Joint FAQs

What causes degenerative joint disease in dogs?

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) in dogs can be caused by a number of things including injury and trauma or it may develop following surgery. But more often than not, DJD is caused by regular stress and wear and tear that is put on a dog’s joints over time. Obesity increases a dog’s chances of developing degenerative joint disease, which is why it’s important to keep your dog at a healthy weight. 

How do you know if your dog has joint pain?

There are various symptoms that may signal that your dog is experiencing joint pain. These include things like lethargy, limping, stiffness, a change in gait, being slower to move or get up, not wanting to climb stairs or jump, irritability, depression, and more. Many of these symptoms could also be signs of other health issues, so it is best to consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog’s joint health. 

Does CBD help dogs with joint pain?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a chemical derived from the hemp plant that can help alleviate joint pain in dogs. In a veterinary study, CBD was found to significantly reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs compared to a placebo. CBD does not contain the psychoactive ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and will not get your dog high. CBD is still being studied for its pain relief properties in dogs and may not be effective for all dogs. 

Can dogs take aspirin for joint pain?

Aspirin meant for human consumption should not be given to dogs to treat joint pain. Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and could be dangerous for dogs if given in the wrong dose or if mixed with other medications. Dogs should only be given aspirin products that are specifically made for dogs and prescribed by your veterinarian.

Keeping Your Dog’s Joints Healthy

Joint health for dogs is something every pet parent should prioritize. Products are designed as preventatives and nutritional supplements but also to treat inflammation and pain as a dog ages. Most joint supplements for dogs contain glucosamine and chondroitin, but others are available with herbs, extracts, and groundbreaking ingredients. 

The best approach to managing arthritis and joint care in dogs starts with working with your veterinarian to develop a targeted plan tailored to your pup’s specific needs. 

We’d also be remiss without mentioning weight management. Overweight dogs carry excess weight that places additional stress on bones and joints. After safely dropping additional pounds, many pet parents report significant relief, less pain, and more movement in their arthritic dogs. Always work in conjunction with your vet’s recommendations to help a pup drop unnecessary pounds.