The Best Joint Supplements for Dogs

At some point in your dog’s life, you will notice that he isn’t as springy as he used to be. Whether he struggles to get up on the couch, up on your bed, or you notice that he takes his time standing up after resting, he’s likely dealing with some joint pain. Unfortunately, this is all too common for dogs. They don’t even have to be in their senior years to develop painful joint conditions like osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia. Some dogs are more prone to the development of these conditions than others, particularly large and extra-large breed dogs.

Although these are progressive conditions and most aging dogs will eventually display some form of joint pain, you can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort your pup feels with the proper joint supplements. But, what is the best joint supplement for dogs? There are a lot of options on the market for dogs, but they vary in efficacy and quality. It can get overwhelming trying to comb through all the different types of products marketed for dogs that need help with mobility.

To simplify things for you, we put together a list of the best joint supplements for dogs. We highlight a variety of different products, some that double as treats and others that provide maximum strength support with ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. Knowing that your dog will eventually deal with losing cartilage between his bones, you can be proactive by providing him with a joint supplement that helps to lubricate and reduce inflammation so that he can enjoy greater mobility and resiliency.

Even with a condensed set of options, it can still be tough selecting the right product for your pet. To help you narrow down these selections, we share a few of the important factors you should consider before making a final purchase. We also share some advice on how to support a dog with joint issues (aside from ensuring he has the right supplement). Finally, we answer your most frequently asked questions to round out this article with all the information you need.

A-Z Animals Top Picks for Joint Supplements for Dogs

#1 Best Overall: Zesty Paws Hip & Joint Mobility Bites Soft Chew Supplement for Dogs

The best overall joint supplement for dogs is the Zesty Paws Hip & Joint Mobility Bites Soft Chew Supplement for Dogs.

This is a hip and joint dog supplement that contains chondroitin, curcumin, organic turmeric, MSM, and omega-3 to support mobility and offer arthritis relief. They are soft chew tablets and come in a tasty duck flavor. They’re formulated to improve cartilage function for dogs and also contain hemp seed, which provides your pup with a source of stearidonic acid (SDA), which is a precursor to long-chain fatty acids. These are included in the formula to support your dog’s immune function.

These chews also contain a premium form of MSM called OptiMSM. This ingredient undergoes a purifying distillation process so that your dog gets the highest level of muscular support. The curcumin included in this formula is also made more powerful with 95% curcuminoids that are known to ease joint stiffness and improve mobility. Additional ingredients include vitamin C and E, zinc, and organic Boswellia for extra joint support. You can provide your pup with these chewable bites, no matter his age.

The only problem reported by pup parents is that not all dogs like these tablets.

Pros and Cons of the Zesty Paws Hip & Joint Mobility Bites Soft Chew Supplement for Dogs

Best Overall

Zesty Paws Hip & Joint Mobility Bites Duck Flavored Soft Chews Supplement for Dogs

• Comes in flavors like duck, bacon, and chicken
• Easily chewable
• Added vitamin C and vitamin E
• No artificial flavoring or preservatives

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2. Best for Hind Legs: VetriScience GlycoFlex Joint Supplements for Dogs

As the best joint supplement for hid legs we recommend the VetriScience GlycoFlex Joint Supplements for Dogs.

This is a hip and joint supplement that contains DMG, MSM, and green-lipped mussel. This formula is extremely powerful and increases hind leg strength in just four weeks. This clinically proven supplement has been trusted by veterinarians for over 40 years. It includes 11 active ingredients, including Perna canaliculus and antioxidants to support your dog’s joints and connective tissue.

This is an advanced formula, meaning it’s maximum strength. It’s recommended primarily for working dog breeds, senior dogs, and ultra-active dogs that have shown signs of joint pain. These chews taste like chicken, and they use naturally sourced ingredients and real chicken for that yummy taste that your dog will instantly recognize and crave. All of the ingredients in this formula are used intentionally and are backed by science.

Unfortunately, som customers have reported that there are a lot of broken pieces in the bottom of each bag.

Pros and Cons of the VetriScience GlycoFlex Joint Supplements for Dogs

Best for Hind Legs

VetriScience GlycoFlex Joint Supplements for Dogs

• This formula contains DMG, MSM, and green-lipped mussels
• Clinically proven and trusted by veterinarians for over 40 years
• Includes 11 active ingredients to support your pup's joints and connective tissues
• This maximum-strength formula is recommended for working dogs, senior dogs, and extremely active dogs that have demonstrated signs of joint pain
• The yummy chicken flavor makes administering these supplements stress-free

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3. Best with Glucosamine: Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs

Glucosamine is often found in joint supplements which is why we suggest the Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs.

Doggy Dailies hip and joint supplement for dogs is formulated to promote healthy joints, provide your pet with comfort, and help to improve mobility. There are a total of eight active ingredients included in every soft chew, including glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, yucca schidigera, Salmon oil, cod liver oil, COQ10, and hyaluronic acid. All of these ingredients are combined to support your dog’s healthy hips and joints. This formula is made with cold press extrusion which preserves the integrity of all the ingredients used. This process maximizes the potency so your pup can experience the maximum relief possible.

You can use this with dogs of all sizes and breeds. Whether your dog just needs a little gentle support, or you have an extremely active pooch that needs all the support he can get, a daily dose is ideal to support your dog’s flexibility and keep his joints healthy. How many chews you provide your pup depends on his weight. There is a daily dosage recommendation on the bottle to make dosing super easy. For example, dogs up to 15 pounds only need one chew per day. However, if you have a larger dog around 61 to 75 pounds, then he will need five chews per day.

Pros and Cons of the Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs

Best with Glucosamine

Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs

• Formulated to promote healthier, more comfortable joints and improve mobility
• Includes eight active ingredients, including glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, yucca schidigera, Salmon oil, cod liver oil, COQ10, and hyaluronic acid
• These chews are created with cold-press extrusion to preserve the integrity of each ingredient
• Appropriate for dogs of all sizes, though the dosage will vary based on their weight

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4. Best Max Strength: Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs

If you’re looking for a maximum strength joint supplement for your dog then we suggest trying the Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs.

This Nutramax supplement is the #1 veterinarian recommended joint supplement. If you’ve noticed that your pup is having trouble getting up the stairs, jumping into the car, or is just not up for his daily walks, this supplement can completely turn that around. These come in a tasty chicken-flavored chewable tablet that your dog will enjoy. This is a high-quality joint supplement that you can use long-term to maintain your pup’s joint health. It also contains omega-3 to promote a healthy skin and coat. Plus, it contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM to support healthy cartilage.

There are various ways for you to determine if your dog needs a joint supplement. For example, less activity, difficulty sitting or standing, stiffness and discomfort when getting up or just a decreased interest in playing with you are all signs that your pup could use a little joint support. This product is formulated for dogs of all sizes and is confirmed safe, effective, and absorbable. That’s why veterinarians recommend it.

However, these tablets have a strong fish smell and some pup parents have reported having to bury them in their dogs food to get them to eat them.

Pros and Cons of the Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs

Best Maximum Strength

Nutramax Cosequin Max Strength Joint Health Supplement for Dogs

• Veterinarian-recommended
• Scientifically researched
• Comes in a soft tasty chew
• Includes omega-3 and MSM

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5. Best for Seniors: PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint Health Joint Supplement for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs need all the love, care, and support they can get, and that’s why we recommend the PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint Health Joint Supplement for Senior Dogs.

PetHonesty has created these hemp mobility hip and joint support supplements especially for senior dogs. They contain organic hemp, glucosamine, balanced collagen, and green-lipped mussel. There are no harsh preservatives, harmful steroids, or GMOs included in this formula. Instead, they contain effective, natural ingredients that are backed by research.

They have a chicken flavor to make them ultra-tasty for your pup and also incorporate a healthy veggie blend for added flavor that includes carrots, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. They’re designed to support a healthy inflammatory response in your dog’s joints, ease that uncomfortable stiffness after daily exercise, and enhance healthy joint fluid viscosity. They promote cartilage development, provide connective tissue support, and help to promote mobility and flexibility.

Unfortunately, these chews are quite large which may not be suitable for smaller dogs.

Pros and Cons of the PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint Health Joint Supplement for Senior Dogs

Best for Seniors

PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint Health Joint Supplement for Senior Dogs

• Formulated specifically for senior dogs
• This researched-backed recipe contains organic hemp, glucosamine, balanced collagen, and green-lipped mussel
• They do not include harsh preservatives, harmful steroids, or GMOs
• They're designed to ease joint discomfort, stiffness, promote cartilage development, and more!
• This delicious chicken-flavored chew also includes a blend of nutritious veggies

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How to Choose the Right Joint Supplements for Dogs

If this is your first time introducing a supplement to your dog, it’s important that you know there are several factors to consider. Each product has a specific formula that combines certain ingredients known to support joint health in dogs. Some of these formulas come in chewy bites that taste like treats to your dog while others are more of a tablet that you can mix in with your pup’s food. There are also liquid options if you prefer to mix them in with your dog’s wet food. Below, we break down what you should look at before deciding on the best joint supplement for your dog.

Ingredients

You’ll see that several of the options above include glucosamine because this ingredient is known to increase the production of cartilage and it also helps to lubricate the joints, which prevents them from further breaking down. Another common ingredient you’ll notice is chondroitin. This is a natural chemical that works to build up cartilage and together with glucosamine, it’s extremely effective.

Another ingredient you’ll see in joint supplements is MSM. This is also a naturally occurring compound that is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. It also serves as an antioxidant while supporting your pup’s connective tissues and helping to maintain the structural integrity of his joints. Some supplements include green-lipped muscles which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This ingredient is fantastic for reducing pain and inflammation while helping to improve mobility.

Make sure that you’re looking at the ingredient list of any product you’re considering for your pup. Jump in, and do a little bit of research on each of the listed ingredients to gain a better understanding of which are most beneficial for your dog’s needs. Some other popular ingredients include hyaluronic acid, which helps to both lubricate your dog’s joints and reduce inflammation. You’ll probably see other items like turmeric, CBD oil, Boswellia serrata, and even hemp extract, all of which work synergistically to reduce your pup’s pain and discomfort, support joint health, and improve mobility.

Type

Another consideration before deciding on the right joint supplement for your dog is the type of supplement you’re selecting. Some may come in capsules, others may be tablets, while some are more treat-like to entice your dog and make the process of administering the supplement a lot smoother. Some dogs are super picky and won’t take their supplements. If you have to be sneaky about it, make sure that you choose a flavored option that can be easily mixed in with his favorite foods.

Flavor

Luckily, joint supplements for dogs are usually flavored. This makes it so that your dog can’t tell the difference between something medicinal and something delicious. Try to choose a product with a flavor that your dog naturally gravitates to. Whether it’s duck, salmon, chicken, or beef, you have plenty of options out there to make sure that you increase the chances of your pup actually wanting to take his regular supplements. They certainly won’t work unless your dog ingests them so choosing the right one also has to do with choosing the right flavor.

How to Support a Dog with Joint Issues

A supplement is just that—something meant to supplement an already-existing set of healthy actions. For example, one of the most important actions you can take to support your dog with joint issues is to ensure that he has a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of immune-boosting ingredients. If you’ve been feeding something standard and commercial, you may want to consider switching over to a diet specifically that supports joint health. You might even inquire about a dog food delivery service that can customize meals for your dog.

When adding supplements to your dog’s food, make sure you’re connecting with your veterinarian. Your vet knows your dog’s medical history and can serve as the perfect guide when it comes to selecting the right supplements that will support your pup’s health. For dogs that struggle to make it onto high surfaces, you can consider getting a pet ramp. You can find cozy ones to use indoors next to your bed or next to your couch and you can also pick up a portable pet ramp to make getting in and out of your car easier for your pet.

Another important consideration that you may not have thought of is pet insurance. The sooner you get pet insurance, the better off you are when it comes time for veterinary care. If you can be proactive with pet insurance, your dog will qualify for any conditions that develop after your policy takes effect. If you wait too long, the pet insurance company won’t cover any pre-existing conditions. This is especially important if you know your dog has a predisposition or susceptibility to the development of certain conditions. When you have pet insurance on your side, you can provide your dog with the highest level of care when he needs it.