Glucosamine for Dogs

Glucosamine can be a valuable addition to your dog's healthy living plan.

Along with weight management, nutrition, and regular vet checks, glucosamine supplements can encourage the regeneration of damaged cartilage and aid your pup as they grow and/or get them back to feeling like their spry self again.

Benefits of glucosamine for dogs include:

1. Joint health
2. Overall Health
3. Pain relief from an injury
4. Pain relief from hip dysplasia
5. Arthritis relief

 

Condition	Signs	Effects of Glucosamine
Ageing joints	Stiffness Slowing of activity Weight gain Licking sore joints	Repair and regeneration of damaged cartilage
Overall Health	Hyper-activity Racing and hunting	Preventative joint care for dogs of all ages
Injuries	Sprains from ligament damage Strains from overextension of tendons	Offers relief of inflammation, and helps to repair sprains and strains
Hip Disease	Bunny hopping Trouble climbing stairs A smaller range of motion than normal Loss of muscle Laxity in the hip joint (wobbly hind end)	Helps to lubricate joints and repair cartilage.
Arthritis	Limping Lameness Muscle atrophy Difficulty urinating in squatting position Weight gain	Lubrication of joints and anti-inflammatory properties

 

Glucosamine for Dog Joint Health

If you're over 30, you probably know the feeling of creaky knees or unstable ankles. These types of annoyances can happen to your dog as well.

The slowing of glucosamine production in dogs begins around four or five years of age.

The onset of the wearing away of cartilage and the stiffness and pain in joints can vary depending on the dog's breed, size, and weight. You can do a few things to help your pet maintain joint health in their later years.

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Create a low impact exercise plan
• Add glucosamine to their diet

Maintain A Healthy Weight

We all love to spoil our pets. We get it. The way they're looking at you with those sad puppy dog eyes, you'd think they'd never had anything tasty in their life. Don't fall for it! (At least not too often).

The more excess weight a dog carries, the more likely they are to have joint pain and stiffness.

So despite how guilty they make you feel with their pathetic face, know that you're not doing them any favours by helping them gain weight.

We can still spoil our kids with healthier treats. Some dogs love frozen veggies or all-natural jerky. You may only need to cut the portions down or change to specific feeding times instead of allowing free eating.

Ask your vet about different foods or raw food diets. Remember, always allow a transition period when switching from one diet to another.

Create A Low-Impact Exercise Plan

As your dog gets older, it may become more difficult for them to do certain things like jumping into the car or onto the couch or bed. They may seem a little lame after they have been lying down for an extended period of time, but they still need their exercise.

Have you heard the term "use it or lose it"? It's true. Sitting around all day isn't good for anyone. Whether you're four or 80, you have to stay mobile to keep what you have.

Keep it simple, and do not over-exercise your dog. Some low-impact activities for a dog suffering joint pain or arthritis are:

• Walking - avoid pulling them as much as possible
• Swimming - if your dog likes water. Some won't even touch it!
• Scavenger hunts - you need to have a little extra time to dedicate to your fur baby, but if you do—they'll love it! Hide some treats around your house and have them walk around sniffing them out. You can start easy and then start hiding them in boxes or containers.

Add Glucosamine to Your Dog’s Diet

Glucosamine is the building block of healthy cartilage. It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been known to assist in the repair and regeneration of damaged joints and cartilage. It can help to reawaken the active and vital pet you remember.

Extremely active dogs, you know, the ones that would run after the tennis ball for hours if you'd let them? They are great at maintaining a healthy weight.

However, weight isn't the only cause of a dog's joint pain. For these active guys, an injury is more likely the cause.

Let's face it, super active dogs are fun but a little hard to deal with. The ball bounces in an unexpected direction, and without a thought, the dog tweaks its back leg to snatch the tennis ball before it can bounce twice. These dogs are candidates for straining and spraining.

Both strains and sprains are painful and impede movement and mobility, but they differ in ways.

Sprains in Dogs

A sprain stretches out the ligaments that connect the bones. Imagine a bunch of pencils in a pencil bag with rubber bands around them. If the rubber band breaks, the pencils go from being held together to flopping around inside the bag. The ligaments are like the rubber bands connecting your bones. If they are stretched or damaged, they will cause pain and mobility issues.

Sprains are prevalent in hunting dogs who run and jump with leaps and bounds. Tracking dogs are more at risk of jumping and landing incorrectly on uneven terrain.

A sprain can happen from merely jumping off the couch or stepping in a crack in the pavement. Just as we humans trip on a rock or twist our ankle on a utility hole.

Strains in Dogs

Between muscles and bones are tendons. Strains occur when your dog’s tendons overextend. Strains befall dogs when they stretch too much, too far or too often. They can also happen from falling or jumping.

Icy conditions are perfect for straining and spraining not only your dog's hips and thighs but your own. Be careful, especially with a dog with pre-existing injuries, joint pain, or arthritis.

In cases of injuries, glucosamine for dogs can help alleviate pain and inflammation with consistent usage. You, the dog owner and best friend, should reintroduce movement and exercise slowly. The relief of inflammation is a huge first step in the direction back to an entirely virile pet.

If your dog cannot walk or put any weight on one or more of its legs, call your vet immediately. They may have a more severe injury requiring surgery or prescription meds.

Hip dysplasia is a degenerative disease that is in the bloodline of the dog. It is a hereditary disease that will most likely affect the next generation of puppies if breeding occurs.

Spaying or neutering a pet is advantageous for several reasons – it can even prevent hip dysplasia cases in dogs.

Hip dysplasia causes laxity or "loose ligaments" in the hip joint. Non-muscular ligaments and the joint capsule, the fibrous membrane covering the joint itself, begin to stretch out. When this happens, the ball of the joint can pop in and out, causing pain and swelling.

Owners of dogs suffering from hip dysplasia will often be encouraged to opt for ranging surgeries or even a full hip replacement. As in humans, this can sometimes be necessary to live a pain-free, active lifestyle. For many dogs, it isn't.

Since the disease is hereditary, even puppies can show signs of hip dysplasia. Preventative surgeries in puppies are performed in hopes that full degeneration will slow as the dog ages. However, in mild to moderate cases, medical management and supplements can help immensely.

What Are The Signs Of Hip Dysplasia In Dogs?

1. Bunny hopping
2. Difficulty climbing stairs
3. Limited range of motion
4. Loss of muscle in hindquarters
5. Laxity in the hip joint or "wobbly hind end."

Bunny Hopping

Bunny hopping is just like it sounds. Dogs will favour their front end because of the pain and instability of the hips. The dog will lead with the front legs and then hop the back legs to follow. Hence the term "bunny hopping."

Difficulty Climbing Stairs

Dogs with any joint pain may have a hard time climbing the stairs. Stiff joints, pain, and a wobbly hind end make climbing the stairs uncomfortable, tiring, and scary for a dog.

Limited Range Of Motion

When dogs suffer from hip dysplasia, they can't move like their able-bodied peers without their ball joints popping in and out of the socket. Dogs may try to keep their cool and lie down often in a play situation. Quick turns and slipping can throw their hips out and cause soreness for days to come.

Loss Of Muscle In The Hindquarters

Since the dog favours its front legs to avoid pain in the back end, they may lose muscle in the hind end.

Glucosamine for pets and chondroitin supplements can relieve the inflammation in joints and offer repair or regeneration of cartilage in the damaged hip joints.

Arthritis is when the cartilage wears away from the joint faster than the body can make it, and chronic inflammation occurs. Without cartilage to cushion the bones and joints, they instead rub against each other, causing your dog to have painful and swollen joints.

Early and preventative treatment can limit the deterioration of the cartilage before it gets too far. Since inflammation is the main offender behind arthritis pain, it makes sense to use anti-inflammatories to relieve the pain and swelling.

 

Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM all have anti-inflammatory attributes that can relieve arthritis symptoms without the addictive and woozy side effects of painkillers.

 

Painkillers like gabapentin and tramadol may be recommended, but they can have unknown or risky side effects. There is little to no solid research about gabapentin in pets and whether it really helps.

To keep your canine companion safe, it’s important to be aware of the common misconceptions of glucosamine in pet supplements and some of the side effects that can occur if you choose a product from an untrustworthy or unregulated source.

Mild Side Effects

Watch out for the following side effects that can occur if you give your dog glucosamine:

• Allergic reaction
• Fatigue
• Bloody diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Nose bleeds
• Lameness
• Insomnia
• Excessive thirst or urination

It’s important to pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour when you start administering glucosamine.

Take note of anything strange, watch out for patterns, and share this information with your vet.

Serious Side Effects (usually associated with fillers and other additives)

With such a vast array of dog glucosamine products available on the market, it goes without saying that not all of these canine supplements are equal in terms of their effectiveness and quality.

Unfortunately, products from countries with little to no regulation around pet supplements pose a huge threat to your dog’s health.

Watch out for the following serious side effects associated with low-quality, unregulated glucosamine supplements:

• Lead poisoning from products made in China
• Poisoning from synthetic sweeteners
• Kidney failure

The best way to avoid these serious side effects is to choose a pet supplement from a reputable company that is designed, made, and tested in Canada.

To see a radical improvement in your pet’s joint health, performance, and wellbeing, you should be looking for a pet supplement containing more than just glucosamine.

The truth is, glucosamine works best for your dog when combined with three other powerful ingredients for animal joint health.

These ingredients are:

1. Chondroitin
2. MSM
3. Hyaluronic Acid

The powerful combination of Glucosamine, MSM, Chondroitin and Hyaluronic Acid creates one of the most effective animal supplements available.

We’ll break down each ingredient to show you how pet supplements containing all four components are far superior to those containing just one or some.

What Is Chondroitin?

Chondroitin is a naturally occurring chemical in the body, mostly found in joint cartilage. Chondroitin gives cartilage its stretch by keeping it well hydrated. Studies show that the supplement can fight the enzymes that reduce collagen's breaking down in the joints.

When chondroitin is used in its high-quality form, it can decrease swelling and the hastiness of cartilage and joint breakdown in dogs and humans. Some have said that chondroitin provides more pain relief for joint pain than commonly prescribed NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can cause heart problems.

Chondroitin is traditionally manufactured using cow or shark cartilage, but it can also be made in a lab. However, it’s important to note that products that source ingredients from shark cartilage can have significant negative consequences on marine ecosystems, so we recommend avoiding the use of these products.

What Are The Side Effects Of Chondroitin in Dogs?

While most side effects are very mild, they are possible. You should always consult your vet before trying a new supplement. Some side effects can be more severe in dogs, depending on their medical history.

Side effects of chondroitin may include:

• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Bloating & gas
• Stomach upset & nausea

 

Condition	Causes	Treatment
Hip dysplasia	Heredity	Supplements Medical management Surgery
Arthritis	Heredity Injury Infection	Supplements Medical management
Joint pain	Old age Weight gain Large breeds	Supplements Weight control Medical management
Injuries	Slipping Falling Jumping	Medical management Supplements Rest for healing Possible surgery

 

Studies have shown that glucosamine and chondroitin used together can reduce inflammation substantially in dogs with consistent use. Glucosamine with chondroitin for dogs makes for a potent and beneficial supplement that protects and repairs joints.

What Is MSM?

MSM is short for Methylsulfonylmethane. It’s a form of sulfur that naturally occurs in animals and plants.

What Are The Benefits of MSM For Dogs?

MSM is an essential component of an effective canine joint supplement because it is a powerful anti-inflammatory. By reducing inflammation in your dog’s joints, your dog will experience far less pain and therefore be more likely to:

• Enjoy walks and playtime
• Show that they’re happy
• Be safe from further injury due to compensation
• Have less stress on their immune system

By ensuring your dog’s joint supplement contains MSM, your beloved pet will be protected from pain and stress while the other active ingredients get to work.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid for Dogs?

Hyaluronic acid is the cutting-edge ingredient boosting the efficacy of your dog’s joint supplement.

It’s a clear, viscous liquid that replicates the natural fluid protecting your dog’s joints. Arthritis occurs when the natural-forming HA in your dog’s joints starts to break down.

What Are The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid For Dogs?

HA lubricates the joints as a natural shock absorber. Because of its viscous texture and high bioavailability, a supplement containing HA offers the following benefits to your dog:

• Reduces pain associated with arthritis
• Slows the breakdown of cartilage that leads to arthritis
• Prevents further joint damage in older dogs
• Prevents injury

Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements designed for human consumption are oftentimes seen more as a dietary aid than a supplement and the FDA does not monitor or regulate these supplements.

Whereas when it comes to joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin for canines, these tend to be highly regulated and monitored. TRI-ACTA supplements are third-party batch tested, and our product and ingredients are regulated and verified by Health Canada.

The Quality of Ingredients Between Canine Joint Supplement Manufacturers is Different

We’ve done third-party independent testing with a few different suppliers of canine joint supplements and have found that often what is being sold as chondroitin contains very little or no chondroitin at all.

Depending on what test is being used, it is possible that it resembles the chemical structure of chondroitin, but in fact, does not actually contain chondroitin.

Our TRIi-ACTA glucosamine chondroitin products have been third-party independently tested to confirm purity and concentration to ensure our pet supplements’ quality, efficacy, and therapeutic values are as high as can be sourced, as well as designated by Health Canada.

Administration Differences In Giving Human Glucosamine and Chondroitin To Dogs

Joint supplements for humans are typically in pill form, whereas glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for dogs are in a liquid form or a powder form like our TRI-ACTA for dogs.

You might be wondering—why?

There are differences between the digestive system in humans and in animals. Dogs have a much shorter digestive tract and system than we do—so no, it is not necessarily wise to give your dogs human glucosamine and chondroitin.

Our digestive tracts dissolve the supplements designed for our systems, whereas dogs’ digestive tracts dissolve the supplements designed specifically for their digestive systems.

Glucosamine supplements for dogs are often in liquid, chew, or powder format. One of the reasons we use a powder format is because our products contain 100% active ingredients. Other formats require stabilizers, binding agents, and other inactive ingredients which are unnecessary and can cause illness in your dogs or are simply being used as filler ingredients.

My Dog Is Sick: Is It Because Of The Supplements?

If you have been feeding your dog glucosamine and chondroitin supplements designed for canines, and not for humans, you should not have any major concerns if they’re experiencing any smaller side effects initially. In our Allergies In Pets: Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Treatments blog post, we discussed the easiest ways to introduce a new supplement into your pets’ diet. If they begin experiencing any of the following symptoms after introducing a new supplement into your dog’s diet, monitor them closely:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy

If your dog has consumed too much glucosamine, these symptoms may occur. If the glucosamine and chondroitin supplements you have given your dog contain zinc or vitamin D, contact your veterinarian immediately, as too much of these ingredients can cause distress to your dogs.

Can Dogs Take Human Glucosamine Chondroitin?

Human forms of glucosamine chondroitin are known to contain xylitol and other artificial sweeteners. Human glucosamine and chondroitin joint supplements containing xylitol can be extremely toxic to dogs—perhaps even more toxic than chocolate is for dogs.

Xylitol and other artificial sweeteners can cause:

1. Unwanted weight gain
2. Cancer
3. Kidney failure
4. Seizures

Because of the drastic difference between the average human’s body weight and our dog’s body weight, their bodies aren’t able to handle the same amount of these potentially dangerous supplements, additives and sweeteners.

Let’s face it, the pet supplement market is oversaturated with thousands of different products promising the same results.

Finding the best glucosamine supplement for your fur baby is more than just knowing how to read a supplement label – although, this is still very important!

It’s about knowing exactly what to look for in a high-quality supplement, as well as being able to identify risks, red flags, and reputable brands.

Read on to find out:

• What to look for when evaluating a glucosamine supplement for your dog
• The gold standard of glucosamine for dogs – TRI-ACTA
• The 10 best glucosamine products for dogs on the market

1. Price

Probably one of the first factors that anyone considers when purchasing anything is the price. About 70% of people are on a budget, so being so many are budget-conscious, price is an important consideration.

While many people expect to pay a little extra for products with the best quality - they don’t want to pay an exorbitant amount either.

So when it comes to price, most consumers ask:

• How much is it?
• How much do I get for the price?
• How long will it last?
• Am I getting my money’s worth?

So when evaluating the various dog glucosamine chondroitin supplements available, we checked them up against the price factors above to see how they fare, and if they’re actually worth your money.

2. Purchasing Convenience

Convenience and ease of purchase are also important factors when choosing your dog’s glucosamine supplement.

What happens if you’re running out of your chosen joint supplement? You have several factors to consider such as:

1. How soon can you get it?
2. Will you be able to get quick shipping?
3. Or do you have to wait a couple of weeks - or more, before you can replenish your supply?

With everyone leading such busy lives, it can be easy to misjudge how much of your supplement you have left—until it’s too late!

Also, accidents happen—a spilled bottle or lost bag can leave you needing more before you know it. Being able to replenish your supply quickly and easily, therefore, is a major consideration.

3. Ingredients

As you might already imagine, not all pet supplements are created equally. Some have all of the right stuff—some don’t. And even still, the quality of each component tends to vary significantly. We evaluated each to make sure they don’t have unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients such as:

 

Potentially Harmful Ingredient	Effect
Fillers	These substances are often used to increase the volume of the supplements. In addition to being unnecessary for a good supplement, they are often substances such as talc, which are barely considered edible
Sugars	These simple carbohydrates are unnecessary additives that can cause health problems such as obesity, heart, and liver conditions
Preservatives	Preservatives are extra substances added to foods and supplements in order to make them last longer. They make supplements last longer in storage (up to several months!) thereby benefiting the manufacturer more than the consumer
Artificial Colors	The chemicals used to fabricate these colours are unnecessary and can be carcinogenic - not to mention dogs really don’t care what colour their pills are!

 

When looking for a high-quality supplement for our pets, we want to make sure it has all of the ingredients we want and need—and nothing that we don’t. The point is to improve their overall health, without adding anything that could potentially harm it.

Dog glucosamine supplements can be extracted from natural sources such as shellfish or made in labs.

4. Product Benefits

Supplements for dogs that provide glucosamine and chondroitin mainly do one thing—support the musculoskeletal health of your ageing or active pup. However, because of the quality of their ingredients, as well as varying dosages of each component, their effectiveness varies.

With that in mind, it’s essential to check each supplement to make sure the benefits are what they should be. One way to do this is with product reviews.

 

Review Type	Why It’s Important
Veterinary Professionals	A high-quality canine joint supplement must be approved and recommended by a veterinarian. Trust the professionals!
Customers	We need to know whether the supplement works well for customers (and their dogs!) along with an insight into the ease of use.

 

We took into account reviews and feedback from both veterinary medical professionals, as well as end-users, such as yourself, to determine which supplements had the most sustainable benefits - and which did not.

5. Packaging and Usability

Packaging and how the dosage is administered is another important point to consider. You want to take into account:

• How is it packaged?
• Can I store it easily?
• Does it need to be refrigerated?
• How do I administer the supplement?

Some manufacturers require their supplements to be refrigerated to keep them fresh, while others are shelf-stable for a period of time. Others can be stored according to personal preference.

We also took into account the manner in which the canine joint supplement can be administered. Some supplements aren’t exactly tasty to dogs—especially if you’ve got a picky eater on your hands. Most dog supplement manufacturers try to remedy that by providing chewable flavoured tabs, but as many dog owners know, this doesn’t always work.

Some forms that dog supplements come in are:

1. Powders
2. Liquids
3. Chewable tabs

Supplements that make it that much easier to administer, even to the pickiest of eaters are more desirable and create less hassle on your end.

6. Manufacturing and Sustainability

People often wonder:

1. How is the product manufactured?
2. How well does it store?
3. If the supplement comes in, let’s say a powder, in a large bag - how long will it keep?

No one wants to deal with a large number of supplements that will spoil before you’ve even gotten a chance to use it all.

This takes us back to being worth your money. If it spoils before you can use it, it’s essentially like throwing money away.

The companies covered in this review all recommend storing their dog supplements in a cool, dry place.

7. Manufacturer Registration and Licensing

What is the company’s reputation?

With the increasing demand for dog joint supplements, especially at cheaper prices, companies are cropping up left and right - and not all of them are reputable.

Dealing with a shady company can have disastrous effects! You want to purchase from a company that’s reputable, been in business for at least 10 years, and has you and your pup’s best interests at heart. You want them to be solely focused on the proper and thorough nutrition of your beloved pet.

8. Quality Assurance

There’s nothing like knowing the food and supplements we give our four-legged family members are of the highest quality—especially when it comes to glucosamine for dogs.

We don’t want anything that could potentially damage our dog’s health. Things that help ensure a supplement’s quality are:

• Proper storage
• Clean facilities
• Approved by a veterinary medical authority
• Carefully prepared
• Caring staff

Reputable companies put emphasis on the factors above, making sure that their supplements are manufactured in the cleanest, safest way possible.

9. Side Effects

When a dog supplement is of the highest quality, there should be NO negative side effects. Checking on the prevalence of side effects of each and every company you consider is thereby of great importance.

Especially when it comes to ageing dogs, side effects are a huge no-no. They’re already in a more fragile health bracket, so any more strain on their health is not something you want.

Before starting any supplement regimen, you want to make sure to consult with your veterinarian first. This would be the case especially if your pup is on any medications. You want to make sure there will be no undesirable or potentially dangerous drug interactions.

10. Customer Service and Post Sale Support

What happens when you have questions after the purchase? Does the customer service experience end after you’ve received your supplement?

The best dog supplement manufacturers also have the best customer support. Should you have questions, you want to make sure your chosen company will care enough to support you and your dog throughout the life of using their product.

They should be available to speak with you either via phone or email without unreasonably long waiting times, and with the greatest of care and concern.

With all of the options for glucosamine and chondroitin pet supplements, available on the market, how do you know which ones to choose?

We’ve compared Integricare’s high-quality TRI-ACTA and TRI-ACTA H.A. with 9 other brands also offering glucosamine chondroitin for dogs. In this comparison study, we will consider how they stack up to the competition, and why you should give TRI-ACTA a second look.

10. G-Max Joint Support

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Manufactured by PawLabs, G-Max Joint Support is a joint supplement that highlights their use of 8 key ingredients. These featured ingredients are used to aid in supporting the health and well-being of dog joints.

Ingredients: Glucosamine, MSM, Turmeric, Chondroitin, Calcium Carbonate, Hyaluronic Acid, Beef Liver, Vitamin C

They come in bottles of 60 flavoured tablets, each bottle retailing for about CAD $63. They’re shelf-stable but must be stored in a cool, dry place. G-Max Joint Support is available through their website only, and rush shipping is available for a fee.

PawLabs prides themselves on doing clinical research and manufacturing their products in an FDA approved facility. Vets and customers agree that the supplement is beneficial. However, there is little to no indication of post-purchase support or customer service.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

9. Mobility Bites

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A joint supplement featured by manufacturer ZestyPaws, Mobility Bites are designed to promote joint health. They do this by encouraging the body to keep the joints lubricated, thereby creating more resiliency.

Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl (shellfish sourced), OptiMSM, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Chondroitin Sulfate (porcine source), Kelp, Vitamin E

They come with 90 soft chews that are either Duck or Bacon flavoured. These chews retail for about $26, and are available via the ZestyPaws website, as well as Amazon.com.

While their active ingredients are decent quality, they also include a variety of inactive ingredients—some of these being fillers such as cellulose and flour. They have several ways to reach customer service should you have questions. Customer reviews, however, are mixed.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

8. Hip & Joint: Pup Science

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Manufactured by Pup Science, and simply called Hip & Joint, this supplement has been formulated to relieve pain, improve mobility, and repair cartilage. They also assert that the supplement can help reduce joint inflammation and lubricate the joints.

Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM, Manganese

They have a note indicating that their Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM are shellfish-derived.

They come with 60 soft chews that retail close to $40 and are available through their website and Amazon. This supplement is manufactured in a facility that is FDA approved, and they are Good Manufacturing Practice Certified. They also offer a 120-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

7. Activ-Flex: PlanoPaws

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Manufactured by PlanoPaws, Activ-Flex is advertised as guaranteed to relieve joint pain and improve mobility - or your money back! They mention it as a safe and effective way to support your dog’s joints.

Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, Organic turmeric, PurForMSM, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Chondroitin Sulfate, Dried Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin E, Egg Shell Meal (Source of Collagen)

They come with 120 Chicken-flavored soft chews that retail about $30. Activ-Flex is available on the PlanoPaws website, as well as on Amazon.com. However, their formula also contains fillers and preservatives.

Customer reviews are mixed, with some indicating that it did not work, or they had a hard time getting their dogs to take it. The company does, however, offer an email address should you have any questions or concerns. They are responsive to questions on Amazon.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

6. Senior Hip & Joint Advanced Soft Chews

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NaturVet’s Senior Hip & Joint Advanced Soft Chews were designed for the needs of aging senior dogs, but are able to be used for any dog over one year of age. Their formula is designed to support joints and maintain healthy cartilage and connective tissues.

Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl (shellfish sourced), MSM, Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil, Lecithin, Flaxseed and Salmon Oil), Chondroitin Sulfate (Porcine Source), Yucca schidigera, Omega-6 Fatty Acids (Lecithin & Flaxseed), Vitamin E

This supplement comes in 240 Chewable Tabs that retail for about $40. They can be purchased at popular stores such as Petco and Chewy.Com, as well as their website.

Like a few others in its class, this supplement also includes fillers and preservatives. They even include ingredients such as Glycerin and Vegetable oil. Customers report mixed reactions, and some dogs don’t seem to take the pills readily.

They do offer a 100% money-back guarantee and stand behind the quality of their products.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

5. Tomlyn Joint & Hip Chews

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Tomlyn’s Joint & Hip Chews come in three sizes - one for smaller dogs, another for larger dogs, and a third for senior dogs. They’re specially formulated for dogs only and are designed to provide the best results, in the smallest possible dose.

Ingredients: Glucosamine, MSM, Chondroitin (from Perna canaliculus), Grape seed extract, Creatine, Omega-3 Fatty acids

They come with 30 soft chews and retail for anywhere from $15 - $25. They’re available on their site, as well as on popular sites like Amazon, Wal-Mart, and Chewy.

Besides the information regarding how their formulas come in three dosages, Tomlyn provides little other information on their product. They do, however, provide a contact form should you want more information.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

4. ProSense Glucosamine Chew Tablets

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Manufacturer ProSense offers their Advanced Glucosamine Chew Tablets, advertised as the Advanced Strength formula of Glucosamine. They help support the healthy function of joints and hips.

Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl (shellfish sourced), Chondroitin Sulfate (porcine source), MSM. Calcium Ascorbate (source of Vitamin C), Manganese (Manganese Proteinate).

They come with 60 chewable tablets which retail for about $10, or 120 tablets, which retail for about $20. They can be found at Walmart, Target, and Chewy.com.

Their formula also contains additives such as Glycerin and Silicon Dioxide. They recommend giving the supplement on a full stomach in order to avoid digestive issues. Customer reviews are mixed, and some say their dogs refuse to take the tablets.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

3. Paramount Pets Liquid Glucosamine

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Paramount Pets has created a line of Liquid Glucosamine supplements for small and large dogs. They even have a Vegetarian formula. It’s designed to be easy to administer and to be high-quality Glucosamine to support overall joint health.

Ingredients: Glucosamine Sulfate (shellfish source), Glucosamine HCl (shellfish source), Chondroitin Sulfate (beef and porcine source), MSM. Hyaluronic Acid, Ascorbic Acid.

They come in 32 oz bottles that retail for about $70 and are sold on their website, and at Amazon.

Customers remark how the liquid form makes it easier to give to dogs, but some indicate a recent formula change makes it less palatable than usual. Paramount Pets does stand behind their products, and even offers a money-back guarantee should it not work for the customer.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

2. YuMove Chewable Tablets

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YuMove Chewable Tablets are designed to provide the best ingredients for helping to maintain joint health in dogs.

Ingredients: Green-lipped Mussel (containing natural Chondroitin), Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Glucosamine HCl (corn extract), Manganese Sulfate, Hyaluronic Acid

They come with 300 tablets that retail for about $34. They can be found on the YuMove website, as well as Amazon.com.

Their site highlights Customer Support - but not how effective it is. They also offer a Money Back Guarantee, Free Returns, and they’re said to be recommended by Veterinarians.

*Prices as of April 2021

 

1. TRI-ACTA & TRI-ACTA H.A.

Last, but certainly not least, is Integricare’s TRI-ACTA & TRI-ACTA H.A. Formulated to offer the very best in joint health support. Manufactured carefully and under strict quality control, TRI-ACTA’s ingredients don’t contain one, but two forms of the highly valuable amino sugar, glucosamine.

Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, Glucosamine Sulfate, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Chondroitin Sulfate, and Hyaluronic Acid (only in the TRI-ACTA H.A. formula)—that’s it, no fillers!

It comes in powder form in three sizes—60 g, 140 g, and 300 g and ranges in price from about $20 - $60.

Because there are no fillers, the servings are small (1gram) and all three options provide great cost per serving, ranging from 0.20 cents to 0.33 cents for Regular Strength and 0.25-0.42 cents for Maximum Strength. And again, with zero fillers, the cost per active ingredient is among the industry's best. Besides the Integricare website, it can also be purchased at local retailers.

In a class of its own, TRI-ACTA offers all of the best ingredients and none of the rest. Period.

Some of the pickiest eaters won’t even take a second look at a soft chew or chew tab—no matter what flavour it is. And crushing tablets can be such a hassle. Because of the purity and concentration of TRI-ACTA, the servings are extremely small and easy to administer. You don't have to give a lot, but you do get therapeutic levels of the active components because of its concentration. This product comes in a powder form that is easy to administer and mix into the food of even the pickiest eater, no matter how finicky they are.

Integricare takes great pride in its products and makes sure its facilities are clean, organized, and staffed with people that care about you and your dog. Customer support is there for you throughout your use of TRI-ACTA.

Customers report seeing significant changes in the joint health of their dogs sooner than they expected. Should they have any questions, Integricare responds promptly and courteously.

 

 

We’re confident that our TRI-ACTA formula is the safest and most powerful joint supplement for dogs on the market.

It’s a powder-form supplement that contains the three essential ingredients for the prevention of cartilage breakdown and arthritis in dogs. These are:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• MSM

As dog owners become increasingly aware of breed-specific ailments, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia, TRI-ACTA is a fantastic supplement for the proactive prevention of these problems.

What’s The Difference Between TRI-ACTA and TRI-ACTA H.A. for Dogs?

The main difference between our two products is that TRI-ACTA is designed for young, growing dogs, or those with mild to moderate mobility concerns.

By starting early and incorporating TRI-ACTA into your dog’s diet, they’ll be better protected from arthritis and other joint problems that start to occur as they age.

TRI-ACTA H.A. is a more potent joint supplement for older dogs or dogs that are already suffering from the painful symptoms of arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint problems and injuries.

As older dogs develop arthritis and other problems, their joints become stiff and mobility becomes difficult as their connective tissues start to break down.

With the addition of Hyaluronic Acid, TRI-ACTA H.A. mimics the naturally-occuring fluid that lubricates your dog’s joints, helping to restore their mobility and drastically reduce inflammation.

By offering two powerful supplements, Integricare provides dog owners with a complete solution to joint problems at all life stages. It means that owners of young dogs can be proactive, but owners of older dogs are never too late to make their canine companion’s life more enjoyable and pain-free.

TRI-ACTA: Ingredients and Manufacturing Process

Every 1g of TRI-ACTA formula contains only the following three ingredients:

 

Ingredient	Amount
Glucosamine (Glucosamine Sulfate 250mg, Glucosamine HCL 250mg)	500mg
Chondroitin Sulfate	125mg
MSM	375mg

 

TRI-ACTA is manufactured in Canada following GMP (Good Manufacturing Process) standards. Ingredients are pharmaceutical grade and contain absolutely zero fillers.

Benefits of TRI-ACTA

• 100% active ingredients with zero fillers
• Natural ingredients
• Small serving size – easier to administer and digest
• Better value for money due to low cost per serving
• Pharmaceutical-grade ingredients
• Treats both the symptoms and the cause
• Health Canada approved Veterinary Health Product (VHP) designation
• Third party independently tested

Where To Buy TRI-ACTA

You can buy TRI-ACTA directly from our website, or use our Where To Buy page to find your nearest stockist.

 

 

Puppies grow fastest during their first six months of life. 

Of course, all dog owners know that these first six months can also be the most hectic! 

We might think that, with all that youthful energy, our pups are invincible – and they think so, too! But alongside all the rough and tumble, the torn shoes, the chasing, and the exploring, your pup’s joints and muscles are vulnerable to damage. 

Over-exercising or playing too rough can stunt your pup’s growth and lead to joint and mobility problems later in life. 

This is because your pup’s growth plates, the soft cartilage around their bones, have not yet hardened. They will gradually calcify into strong bones as they mature and develop.

Here are some tips to care for your fur baby during those puppy growth spurts:

• Exercise your pup for five minutes per month of age, twice per day
• Ensure they have a soft bed that’s low to the ground
• Encourage rest after playtime and rub your puppy’s joints – they’ll love it!
• Consider feeding them natural anti-inflammatory foods in small amounts – celery, kale, blueberries, and eggs

You can also consider feeding your puppy the following supplements to protect their joints and prevent injury down the line:

Supplement	Description
TRI-ACTA	A powerful, high-strength supplement with zero fillers designed specifically for younger dogs to prevent joint problems later in life.  Contains: Glucosamine (both types), MSM, and Chondroitin Sulfate.
Zesty Paws Mobility Bites	A popular joint supplement with a delicious duck flavour for your pup to enjoy. Contains: Glucosamine, MSM, Chondroitin Sulfate + additives and flavours.
Homescape Pets Mussel Mobility	An all-natural product designed to maintain joint mobility.  Contains: New Zealand green-lipped mussel and organic turmeric.

 

Make the most of this joyful, playful time in your dog’s life, while ensuring they can run around for years to come!

It makes sense that senior or injured dogs require a little more care and consideration, especially during exercise.

Remember, the rule of thumb is that for every human year, your dog matures by seven human years.

With the right senior dog food, supplements, and strategies for your aging pup, you can make sure they make the most of life and playtime for as long as possible!

Consider these ideas to help keep your injured or senior dog comfortable and happy:

• Install a ramp into your car to help them get in for their walk
• Avoid naughty treats and unhealthy dog food –weight gain adds extra stress on those joints!
• Place rugs or mats over slippery surfaces in your home to protect your dog from injury
• Dedicate some time to massaging your old pup every day or so – they’ll appreciate the love!
• Encourage your dog to play (for short bursts) with dogs of all ages to keep them engaged and having fun
• Visit your vet regularly – early diagnosis of any health issues is key to recovery!

Following these strategies will ensure your old dog enjoys a high quality of life throughout his senior years. Old dogs can still play, chase, and snuggle just as much as younger dogs – they just need a little more consideration.

Diet is also a key component to your senior dog’s health. Feeding them a diet that is rich in natural anti-inflammatories and free of fillers will help keep unnecessary weight off and relieve joint pain.

Below, we recommend some senior dog food options:

Senior Dog Food & Supplements	Description
TRI-ACTA H.A	This high-potency glucosamine supplement for dogs is boosted by Hyaluronic Acid to lubricate your dog’s joints and greatly reduce the painful symptoms of arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint injuries.
All-natural treats	Feed your dog anti-inflammatory treats such as apple, carrots, sweet potato, kale, spinach, and parsley.
Wellness Core Grain-Free Senior	A low-calorie, grain-free senior dog food containing high quality animal protein and vegetables.

“How can I keep my dog with joint pain as comfortable as possible?”

Here is where you can spoil your pet with things other than treats and food that may be adding to the problem

• Maintain a healthy weight. The heavier the dog, the more they're carrying on their joints. Weight control is the first and least invasive way to lighten the load on sore and stiff joints. Before you consider surgery or meds, consider a diet for your dog.
• Light exercise. Don't force anything too strenuous, for that could cause more damage, but regular exercise is necessary for a healthy weight, muscle tone, and general happiness.
• Offer them a soft yet supportive bed on the floor. This way, they have the option to not jump up on the couch or bed if they don't feel up to it. Some dogs prefer a stiffer bed than others, but most will appreciate their own cozy space with the rest of the family.
• Elevate food and water bowls. Imagine having to hunch over every time you wanted a drink of water or a bite of food. Elevating food and water bowls can alleviate stress to joints and avoid bending the legs awkwardly.

“Can I Use Human Glucosamine And Chondroitin Supplements For My Dog?”

Though glucosamine and chondroitin are active ingredients in many human and animal joint supplements, it isn't advised to give your pet human medications in any scenario. In the case of glucosamine and chondroitin, it's just too risky to know what you are giving your dog.

Human supplements can have a lot of weird additives that dogs may not be able to digest. Dogs may also have an allergic reaction to something on the label. Have you looked at the back of most human supplements? How would you even begin to find what is causing the reaction with all of those ingredients?

“What is The Dosage Of Glucosamine For Dogs?”

Glucosamine dosages can vary. Many supplements have a huge serving size, which is alright if you have a dog that eats anything. If you have a fussy dog that can smell a pill from a mile away and will dissect any piece of meat disguising it, you'd probably rather have a supplement that gets to the point.

Many companies put everything in their supplements. From greens and tomatoes to fillers, and flours and everything in between. The ideology behind this being, why not?! Well, because it's not necessary to have all these extra ingredients that don't benefit your dog.

These additional products result in a giant serving size that a picky eater isn't going to touch. Then you've wasted both food and supplement. We've all been there.

“What Is MSM, And Why is it in Joint Supplements?”

MSM stands for Methylsulfonylmethane. It's a chemical that is found in some plants, veggies and animal products. It can help make amino acids in the body due to its sulphuric composition.

When used in combination with glucosamine for dogs, MSM can offer inflammation and pain-relieving benefits to dogs.

“Where Can I Get Quality Canine Glucosamine Supplements?”

Glucosamine supplements for dogs vary greatly, and it can be tough to pick from the hundreds that are out there.

Here are a few things to consider when seeking a glucosamine supplement for your dog.

• The active ingredients: glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.
• Serving size - the smaller, the better for these choosy pets.
• Meaningful yet straightforward ingredients - you probably don't need every vitamin under the sun in your dog's supplement.

Your dog gets vitamins from the nutritious and healthy foods that you feed them already. Taking up space with a bunch of unnecessary ingredients is just for show. Don't bother.

There you have it. We’ve provided everything you need to know to protect your pup’s joints against future damage, and ensure they live their life to the fullest well into their senior years.

With the help of a powerful canine glucosamine supplement, even your senior dog can start to regain the spring in their step when they hear that magic word – walk!

At Integricare, we’re committed to delivering dog owners only the very best glucosamine supplement for dogs. We’re proud to provide pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, in a potent formula designed for maximal ingestion and minimal stress on your pocket!

We’re also here to help and answer any questions you might have about glucosamine for your dog and how to help protect them from joint problems and reduce the symptoms of mobility conditions.

Just contact us and our friendly team of animal lovers will be right with you.