BEST JOINT SUPPLEMENTS FOR LARGE DOGS
As our large dogs get older, owners need to increasingly pay attention to their joint health. Here are our highest rated joint supplements with research and reviews for each.
REVIEW CRITERIA
- Active Ingredients
Different active ingredients have different long-term benefits and can sometimes cause issues. - Dosage/Form
Palatability, shape, form, size, and dosage all play an important part in how your canines experience. - Cost/Value
We considered the cost per dosage; which could consist of one or muliple pills. - Level of Safety
We reviewed hundreds of reviews for signs of reactions and looked for the level of professional endorsements for the supplements as well.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
WINNING CATEGORIES
COST RESEARCH
Our cost research, using current prices, shows us that one of the most popular supplements, Cosequin, is also one of the least expensive supplements. The runner up for cost, Dasuquin, is a product from the same manufacturer and is equally well known.
It was interesting that VetriScience's GlycoFlex was so expensive. initially it did not seem so expensive but considering that the recommended dose is 5 chews, it appears that you run out faster than expected.
#1 COSEQUIN DS PLUS MSM
Customers like the effectiveness of the product. They mention it works great, helps mobility, and joints. Many appreciate that it relieves discomfort and provides good value. Some customers have differing opinions on the taste but that is to be expected. We found no evidence that the taste was an issue. This is such a highly recommended supplement from veterinarians because it has the right mix of value, effectiveness, and flavor. My dogs love it.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
- MSM and Glucosamine levels strong
- Has Manganese and SCS for cartilage health
- Manganese Ascorbate for strong bones
- More Glucosamine than Dasuquin (2 tablets)
- Less MSM per dose.
DOSAGE / FORM
- Chewable tablets
- Flavor is well liked.
- Dosage is twice a day
COST / VALUE
- Reasonable cost per dose
- Dosage quantity not excessive after 4 weeks
- Flavor is well liked
- Chewable tablets - chalky texture
LEVEL OF SAFETY
- Same manufacturer as Dasuquin
- Science based
- Trusted brand and widely recommended
- Some owners claim siezures and lethargy result from this supplement so watch your dog closely
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#2 Movoflex Soft Chews
Owners like the product for its effectiveness in helping older dogs and supporting joint health. They mention it's a great supplement that helps with joint pain and improves mobility. Owners also appreciate that it works well and tastes good. However, some owners have mixed opinions on the value for cost.
Owners tend to prefer this brand as an alternative to Glucosamine due to allergy issues. Owners also like the softness of the chews for older dogs. We personally use this brand and the dogs seem to like it.
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
- Unique proprietary blend of Glucosamine alternatives
- Egg shell membrane: contains elastin, collagen, GAGs, desmosine, and isodesmosine to support joint flexibility
- Hyaluronic Acid: distributed to connective tissues to support the viscosity of the synovial fluid
- Boswellia Extract: Reduces inflammation and supports connective tissue and joint health
- Zanthin: potent antioxidant, for protection against free radicals
- Vitamin D3: For healthy bone function
DOSAGE / FORM
- Soft chews - easy to chew for older dogs
- One chew per day
- The supplement has a strong smell that dogs seem to like
COST / VALUE
- On the expensive side
- Dosage of 1 per day helps this last longer and increase its cost per dosage.
- Value is low because the cost per dosage is 50% higher than some others
- Focus on using this if allergies are an issue, soft chews are beneficial, or if other products are not helping
LEVEL OF SAFETY
- Very safe and well tollerated
- We use this brand and have been very happy with it
- NASC Seal Certification for quality ingredients
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#3 Dasuquin with MSM
Customers like the arthritis and mobility benefits of the product. They mention it helps keep their joints healthy and improves their quality of life. Many are satisfied with the taste and say it works great. However, some customers have mixed opinions on whether it should be called a chew since it is pretty hard. Customers also question the value for cost. This is an excellent joint supplement but it is fairly expensive.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
- MSM and Glucosamine but less than Cosequin
- Has Manganese and SCS for cartilage health
- Tea extract and Advocado/Soybean powder
- Boswellia extract for inflamation
- Overall good blend of essentials
DOSAGE / FORM
- Soft chews - easy for older dogs to chew
- Single dose per day
- Flavor is well tolerated
COST / VALUE
- Same cost per dose as Cosequin
- Seemingly expensive but dosage is one chew
LEVEL OF SAFETY
- Same manufacturer as Cosequin
- Science based
- Trusted brand and widely recommended
- Some owners claim siezures and lethargy result from this supplement so watch your dog closely
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#4 VetIQ Hip & Joint
Customers like the product for its ability to improve joint mobility and health. They mention it provides Omega-3s, which are essential for dog health. Some appreciate the great value and taste. However, some customers disagree on the hardness, chewability, and strength. This is our favorite all-around, affordable, supplement; if you can handle coordinating the 5 doses per day. There are a few serious complaints on skin reactions, diarrhea, and seizures but monitoring your dog when changing supplements is always necessary.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
- MSM and Glucosamine and other natural ingredients
- Higher concentrations of active ingredients per dose
- Krill oil which supports cognative functions
DOSAGE / FORM
- Soft chews but many complain that they are not soft enough
- Up to 5 chews per day for large dogs
- The flavor is well tolerated
COST / VALUE
- Inexpensive product but high dosage of 5 chews makes the cost per dose higher than expected
- Still offers better value for exposure to the Active Ingredients than some of the leading brands
- Dosing of 5 chews for large dogs puts the Glucosamine level very high. This may contribute negatively to reactions / tolerance to the supplement
LEVEL OF SAFETY
- VetIQ prides themselves on being science forward
- NASC Certified Quality Ingredients. In the supplement product market, sourcing and quality is very important
- Some owners claim siezures and lethargy result from this supplement so watch your dog closely
- Good ingredients but perhaps less quality control
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#5 GlycoFlex 3 & VetriScience GlycoFlex Plus
Customers like the value, taste, and health benefits of the animal nutritional supplement. They mention it's more reasonably priced than any supplement in the pet stores, helps keep them healthy, and is easy to chew. Some say it helps reduce limping and relieves joint pain. This seems solid choice for young to middle-aged large breed dogs with ingredients common to other supplements.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
- MSM and Glucosamine and other natural ingredients
- Higher concentrations of active ingredients per dose
- Krill oil which supports cognitive functions
DOSAGE / FORM
- Harder chews when compared with other 'soft' chews
- Up to 5 chews per day for large dogs
- The flavor is well tolerated with a wide variety of helpful ingredients
COST / VALUE
- Inexpensive product but high dosage of 5 chews makes the cost per dose higher than expected
- Offers better value for exposure to the active ingredients than some of the leading brands
- Dosing of 5 chews for large dogs puts the Glucosamine level higher than others. Its unclear whether more glucosamine is better or if it makes negative reactions worse
LEVEL OF SAFETY
- Science forward brand product development
- Some owners claim adverse reactions to different batches of the product so watch your dog closely
- Given reviews, there seems to be less quality control given allergic reactions and inconsistent quality
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Joint Supplement Review Conclusion
All of these supplements are choice products. Knowing your dog's needs and activities will help guide you into making the right choice.
Cosequin would be my first choice for a dog on a budget.
Movoflex is our choice for an older dog whose allergies cannot support some of the other supplements, fillers, or quality/consistency issues.
VetIQ offers a good supplement, with certified quality and a pretty high Glucosamine exposure; which for many dog owners makes it very attractive.
Cosequin and Dasuquin, are the two leaders in cost and popularity but are a little more difficult to differentiate. Cosequin offers a higher dose of Glucosamine and Sodium Chondroltin Sultate but Dasuquin has slightly more MSM per dose. Both are excellent choices for Gulcosamine based products.
VetriScience GlycoFlex Plus has a wide variety of beneficial ingredients, however, it is the most expensive supplement we reviewed and the high dosage of Glucosamine in this product may make it less tolerated for more sensitive dogs.
Always do your homework and speak with your vetranarian about their preferences for your dog. Not only is every breed different, but every dog is at a different stage of their health journey. Considering any one of the above products in your research will keep you in the ballpark for the best-of-class solutions for your dog.
Fun Facts About Your Dogs Health
Large breed dogs have 42 permanent teeth that can endure more wear due to their strong bite force, making them prone to periodontal disease without proper care. They use their teeth for eating, carrying objects, and playing, which increases the risk of dental issues like misalignment or delayed eruption. Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain their oral health and overall well-being.
Large breed dogs often excel at swimming in lakes and rivers due to their powerful builds and stamina, making such activities excellent for their physical health and mental stimulation. However, owners should be cautious of the natural water bodies' hidden risks like strong currents and underwater debris that can pose safety risks to these dogs. Additionally, after swimming, it's important to rinse off any lake or river water to prevent potential irritants or harmful bacteria from affecting the dog's coat and skin.
Playing outdoors offers significant health benefits for dogs, especially in boosting their physical fitness and reducing behavior problems linked to excess energy. Exposure to sunlight while playing outside also helps dogs synthesize Vitamin D, supporting bone health and overall vitality. Moreover, engaging in varied outdoor environments enhances a dog's sensory experiences, contributing to better cognitive development and social skills.
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