Glucosamine For Dogs

Glucosamine is a common ingredient you’ll find in many dog joint supplements, and with very good reason. Although dogs naturally produce glucosamine in their bodies, joint cartilage can still become worn or damaged. Glucosamine for dogs can help alleviate the pain and immobility related to a number of joint-related issues, such as:

  • Joint pain and wear
  • Effects of arthritis, hip dysplasia, spinal disc injury or structural changes
  • Recovery from joint surgery

Using glucosamine for regular maintenance of a dog’s joints can also help support his overall performance, ensuring his joints stay properly cushioned and in good condition.

glucosamine for dogs

Using glucosamine for regular maintenance of a dog’s joints can also help support his overall performance, ensuring his joints stay properly cushioned and in good condition. 

These benefits are only possible, however, if you select the right type of glucosamine for dogs. There are three types from which to choose:

  • Glucosamine hydrochloride (HCI) is the optimum choice, as this highly concentrated form of glucosamine is a building block of cartilage that prompts the growth of new cartilage cells.
  • Glucosamine sulfate could have similar benefits to glucosamine hydrochloride, although there are no studies that show it actually makes it to the joint’s synovial tissue after oral ingestion. If it can’t get to the right location, it would be tough for it to help.
  • N-Acetyl Glucosamine is a form of glucosamine derived from glucose that’s more commonly used to help with gastrointestinal conditions.

 Glucosamine hydrochloride is the best choice for dogs with joint issues, making it imperative to read the label to confirm the supplement contains the right type.

How the Ingredient Helps the Joint

  • Repair

    Assisting with the repair of damaged articular cartilage, which is the spongy, cushioning material between the joints. It appears to do this by:

  • Build

    Prompts the creation of glycosaminoglycan, which makes new cartilage and tissue within the joint

  • Stimulate

    Stimulates cartilage cells known as chondrocytes to make collagen

  • Creates

    Stimulating the creation of hyaluronic acid, which keeps connective tissue moist and well lubricated

  • Improves

    Stimulating chondrocytes to make proteoglycans, which are essential components in connective tissue for healthy cartilage and joint function

  • Manufactures

    Playing an active role in the manufacturing of synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints