Cosequin for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

There’s nothing like the joy that emanates from an active, playful pup in full sprint. As much as you wish their energy and joints would remain forever boundless and in perfect working order, the reality is that they need your help along the way. Sometimes that means vet visits, sometimes it means medications, and sometimes it means extra love and cuddles. But there is something else that may help: a joint health supplement. Learn more about Cosequin for dogs, including when they may need it, what the risks and side effects are, and what the proper dosage is for your beloved pup!

Cosequin for Dogs: Risks, Side Effects, Dosage, and More

When Do Dogs Need Cosequin?

Arthritic Conditions

As dogs get older, they may develop arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative disease. When their joints get inflamed, they may start experiencing pain and may not be as active as they used to be. Cosequin is formulated to address this discomfort and consequent stiffness, but it’s best used when pets are still healthy, so they have the support they need as they age.

Hip Dysplasia

Certain types of dog breeds are susceptible to the development of hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip socket and the hip joint don’t fit together correctly. This causes pain, which affects mobility, especially if it is more severe. Multiple factors affect this disease, including diet and exercise. Along with Cosequin, treatment for this disease includes weight loss if needed, pain management, and rehab.

Post-Surgery

When joints are weak following surgery or some kind of injury, they need extra support during the healing and recovery process. Glucosamine, one of the active ingredients in Cosequin, helps to reduce inflammation, consequently alleviating pain. Cosequin can assist with improving the structural integrity of your dog’s joints, helping your pup get back on its feet after surgery.

Obesity

If your dog is obese, that extra weight puts more pressure on their joints. Although this supplement can help with promoting joint health, it should be used in conjunction with a change in diet (supervised by a veterinarian) along with exercise. Cosequin offers several benefits, including improving skin and coat health, which offers your pup a complete makeover.

Large-Breed

Larger pups, like overweight pups, put more pressure on their joints. Cosequin has several formulations, including a maximum strength option which may be best suited for large-breed dogs. These doggos are prone to the development of joint conditions, including arthritis, and could use a supplement that helps support their joint health all around as they grow older.

General Joint Health

While Cosequin can be a helpful supplement for pups dealing with health conditions or following surgery, the supplement supports general joint health, which makes it suitable for dogs that don’t present with a current joint condition.

Side Effects of Cosequin in Dogs

Gastrointestinal Upset

Generally, dogs tolerate Cosequin well. However, pups may experience vomiting or diarrhea as a side effect, particularly if the supplement is administered without food. To prevent gastrointestinal upset, it’s best to administer along with a meal.

Blood Thinning

Though rare, it’s important to note that blood thinning has been recorded as a side effect in some dogs. This is especially true for dogs that have already been diagnosed with a bleeding disorder. For reasons like this, you must contact your veterinarian for guidance before giving your dog any new supplement.

Signs of Cosequin Overdose or Allergies in Dogs

Vomiting/Diarrhea

When your dog has too much glucosamine in its system, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or both. You may also notice that your pup is extra gassy and a bit bloated as well. In some cases, especially when your pup is ultra-sensitive to the ingredients in this supplement, constipation may occur.

Loss of Appetite

If an overdose occurs, your dog may lose its appetite. Since they may have a swollen belly, they may also be experiencing abdominal pain, which will keep them from wanting to eat. Generally, these side effects subside naturally, but if you notice changes, continue monitoring your dog and reach out to your veterinarian if you have any doubts.

Lethargy

After too much Cosequin, you may also notice that your pup is lethargic and moving more sluggishly compared to its livelier states. The best way to keep your pup from overdosing on Cosequin (or any other supplement or medication) is to keep the tablets locked away in a cabinet or drawer where your pup doesn’t have access.

Hepatotoxicity

There has been hepatotoxicity recorded following an overdose of glucosamine and chondroitin joint supplements in dogs. The pup in the study was a five-year-old Bernese mountain dog that ingested 200 tablets. Unfortunately, the pup was euthanized following the development of coagulopathy, pancreatitis, peritonitis, and acute kidney injury.

Liver Damage

When a pup already presents with kidney or liver issues, even low doses of Cosequin can lead to liver damage or liver failure. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can make well-informed decisions about this and other supplements before administering them to your pup.

Cosequin Risks to Consider

Overdose

The primary risk of Cosequin is overdose or dosing without veterinary supervision. The first step should be a consultation with your veterinarian to determine whether Cosequin is an option for your pup. From there, you can discuss the proper dosage and track progress over time. For some dogs, Cosequin is not an option, but you need to know this ahead of time before potentially causing your pup internal damage with good intentions.

When Is Cosequin Not an Option for Your Dog?

If your pup has been diagnosed with a kidney or liver condition, Cosequin may not be an option. Additionally, if your dog has a sensitivity to or an allergy to any of the active ingredients in the different Cosequin formulas, the supplement may not be an option. Be sure you’re well aware of any underlying conditions so you can do right by your pup as it gets older.

Cosequin for Dogs Dosage Chart

Dosage varies depending on the specific Cosequin product; however, the standard strength has specific dosages outlined in the table below. Be sure to contact your veterinarian as they may suggest a ramp-up dose to start. Ultimately, your veterinarian can customize the dosage to your doggo’s specific needs, considering they have their full medical history and can provide well-informed guidance.

Alternatives to Cosequin

In some cases, Cosequin may not be an option for your dog. However, there are some alternatives you can explore. You can try changing your pup’s diet to incorporate ingredients that support joint health like omega-3 fatty acids. Another option you might consider is a green-lipped mussel supplement, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and helps to relieve inflammation.

There are also hyaluronic acid supplements, which help with joint lubrication and promote better joint health. Another option is Dasuquin, which also contains glucosamine, but it’s paired with chondroitin sulfate and avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU). If you’re unsure which option to choose, work with your veterinarian for a professional opinion.

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