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Glucosamine Supplement for Dogs

A glucosamine supplement for dogs, including your own, may be more important than you think. Dogs’ bodies tend to degenerate as they age, often with an attendant weakening of the joints. Accordingly, many pet stores market glucosamine supplements for dogs, which comprise ingredients that are believed to support joint and bone health. But these supplements often come in chews or pills, which means that dogs taking these supplements could be absorbing as little as 50% of the amounts of nutrients listed on the supplement facts label.

Liquid supplements have superior absorbability is superior and they are easier to mix in with your dog’s food or water. A liquid glucosamine supplement for dogs would theoretically be more effective and easier to use than comparable tablets or chews. But let’s look at common ingredients in these supplements.

Glucosamine For Dogs
Glucosamine is a monosaccharide (simple sugar) derived from the exoskeletons of certain crustaceans (usually shellfish) or from certain grains, like corn or wheat. Glucosamine marketed as being able to support and sustain the joints through its complex anti-inflammatory action, and many people with osteoarthritis use a glucosamine supplement in the hopes that it will alleviate their joint pain. Clinical trials conducted on the efficacy of glucosamine supplements for dogs have yielded mixed results, so more trials are needed to better understand what health benefits glucosamine may offer.

MSM
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulfur compound that is derived from certain plants. MSM is sometimes used to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, and studies conducted on both humans and animals have suggested that it may have a genuinely beneficial effect on osteoporosis and similar conditions, and more research is being conducted to allow us to better understand its efficacy. Many high quality glucosamine supplements for dogs include MSM in their formulations.

Chondroitin
Chondroitin sulfate (commonly referred to as chondroitin) is a complex carbohydrate that is a major component in cartilage, the connective tissue that keeps bones together. Chondroitin is classified an over-the-counter or prescription drug in many European countries, but in the U.S. it is still regulated as a dietary supplement.

Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid (or hyaluronan) is a complex carbohydrate found in various bodily tissues, including the connective tissues and the skin. Hyaluronic acid is sometimes used as a tumor marker for breast cancer and prostate cancer. It is FDA-approved for use in certain eye surgeries. For osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid can either be injected into the affected joints or taken orally.

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