Glucosamine Chondroitin for Dogs

Pet owners across the world use glucosamine chondroitin if their dogs are suffering from arthritis or hip dysplasia. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is a supplement that is not only used for pets, but also for humans for relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring amino acid, that is used by the body to make glycosaminoglycans, which are the important components of the cartilage.

Chondroitin or chondroitin sulfate on the other hand, is the sulfated glycosaminoglycan, which can be found in the cartilage of dogs, humans and many other animals. This is the reason why, glucosamine is usually combined with chondroitin to be used as a supplement for dog arthritis and joint problems. Sometimes, veterinarians recommend the use of glucosamine chondroitin msm for the same dog health problems. MSM stands for 'methylsulfonylmethane', which is a type of sulfur compound that too can play an important role in the growth of synovial cartilage.

Glucosamine Chondroitin Supplements for Canines

Benefits
As a supplement, glucosamine and chondroitin has been available for pets for quite a long time, mainly to reduce the pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis or osteoarthritis. Arthritis is quite a common dog health problem, and dogs face a lot of inconvenience due to this condition. Osteoarthritis is the condition where the cartilage of the joints degenerate gradually with age. Glucosamine can slow down this process of cartilage degeneration by providing the building blocks for new cartilage synthesis. Therefore, it can prove effective in treating dogs dealing with arthritis problem.

Glucosamine can prevent further damage to the cartilage, and facilitate the repair of the damaged cartilage. As a result, you can observe an improvement of the symptoms of arthritis in your dogs. The chondroitin sulfate is the component of the joint cartilage, and it can increase resistance to compression, improve joint elasticity and protect the joints from the enzymes that can trigger the breakdown of cartilage. As mentioned already, methylsulfonylmethane (msm) supplement is also used for dog arthritis management, along with glucosamine and chondroitin. This is because, msm has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, and it can provide a type of sulfur that is required for the generation of cartilage.

Side Effects
Its severe side effects are rare and hence, it is largely considered as a safe supplement for osteoarthritis treatment. Some dogs can experience a few side effects like, diarrhea, vomiting and gas, which can be avoided by giving the supplement along with dog foods. Lowering the dosage of the supplement too can help to alleviate such minor gastrointestinal problems. The effect of glucosamine chondroitin on insulin is not very clear, as some studies have reported that it increases insulin resistance, while others have shown that it does not.

However, if your dog has diabetes then it is advisable to talk to a veterinarian before giving your dog this supplement. If the veterinarian approves the use of this dog arthritis supplement, then be sure to monitor the blood glucose levels of your dog regularly. Some dogs can develop allergic reactions after taking this supplement, especially if they are allergic to shellfish. Such allergic reactions can occur due to the fact that glucosamine is basically made from chitin, the substance that is a major component of the shell or exoskeleton of the shellfish and crustaceans like, crabs and shrimp.

Dosage
The dose depends on the weight of the dog. The usual practice is to give about 750 mg of glucosamine for every 50 pounds of body weight. The exact dosage of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine for dogs is usually mentioned on the label of the product. But, it is better to confirm the appropriate glucosamine dosage for dogs by consulting a veterinarian. Apart from pills and tablets, you can also find liquid glucosamine chondroitin for your beloved pet. Liquid supplement is more convenient to be used, as it can be readily mixed with foods.

Aging dogs with arthritis need some special dog care measures. Glucosamine chondroitin is the supplement that can help you take care of such dogs. However, be sure to purchase this supplement only from a reputed manufacturer. There can be some other supplements and arthritis medications for dogs, which can help to reduce the joint inflammation and pain associated with this condition. However, be sure to talk to a veterinarian before administering any kind of medication and supplement to your dog.