Glucosamine/Chondroitin pills?

Hi all,

With Lefty's recent arrival into seniorhood, I've wondered if perhaps I should start him on some glucosamine/chondroitin supplements as a preventative measure. He shows no arthritic symptoms yet and seems very fit, but as he follows me up and down the stairs all day, I want him to stay healthy.

Anyone using these for their dog? If your dog has symptoms, are you seeing improvements? Any brand suggestions?

I am currently looking at the offerings on the Foster & Smith website. I'm leaning towards supplements that include chondroitin simply because that combination was successful in human trials (and I, in fact, just began taking supplements myself--I figure, at 32 years of age, I might as well do it to ward off later problems, especially since I haven't outgrown sitting indian-style).

Thanks!

So far I'm considering Drs. Foster and Smith Gluco-C. This does not contain chondroitin, as does their Joint Care formula (which sounds very good); however, the more I read, the more I believe this might be a better (and cheaper) option for preventative maintenance, as he is not showing any actual symptoms of joint pain.

With three dogs that can claim to be seniors, I also debated the value of the same pills. I opted to switch their food to a Nutro Senior that already has glucosomine and chondroitin in it.

At 12-13, they're still very active and don't seem to be in any pain that I can tell.

Mary

Interesting. I'm debating a switch to Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover's Soul Senior formula. It has those things as well.

Still active at 12 and 13 is great!

Mine get theirs through their food too, Smilla. They are all doing great! :)

My Cody has hip dysplasia and has been on a formula sold at my vet's for years now..."Glycoflex II" It's a glucosamine/chondrotin supplement in a kelp and shark fin base. She's doing great on it! I'm very fearful of the side effects of Rimadyl and thankfully this is doing the trick, along with exercise and a comfy bed:)

Over the last year we were using liquid health and it's worked wonderers for Angus!
But over the last few months we've been using a pill form (NutraJoint Plus Glucosamine, Chrondroitin & MSM) & it's been working great also.

my dog broke her knee bone and we are supposed to give her glucosomine/chondroiten also. The vet said that human and dog glucosomine are pretty much the same, and he also said that even though her food has some in it, it would be better if we give her pills aswell!

For those of you giving your dog pills (like the NutraJoint), how are you getting them to take it? Do you tuck it in their food or...

Thanks so much for all of the replies.

I give Carina Synovi MSM for her arthritis. It comes in powder form, which makes it easy to mix with food, and has glucosamine, vitamin C, and something called Perma Canaliculus, which is some kind of shell fish. I also give her a teaspoon of organic flax seed oil that is supposed to lubricate her joints.

I put it in either a peice of cheese or I give it to her in roll-over and she doesn't even know it's there!

Quote:

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Originally posted by Smilla
For those of you giving your dog pills (like the NutraJoint), how are you getting them to take it? Do you tuck it in their food or...

Thanks so much for all of the replies.

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I give it to him in his food mixed with a little canned chicken with broth. He just gobbles it right up:D
And other times I have taken a milkbone and dipped it in pb...that works just as well!

Cody gets hers in a glob of fat free cream cheese or peanut butter. She used to love the fishy taste but no more:D

Hi! I have been giving my dogs Glucosamine and Chondrotitin
for years now. Some senior dog foods have it in the food already.
I buy the supplement at Walmart it is cheaper then going through the
pet stores and magazines. I give my 82 pound german shepherd 1000 mg a day of Glucosamine, 800 mg of Chondrotin. (2 pills)
She has elbow dysplasia and her surgeon recommened her
taking this supplement to help her with her arthritis. It is not
a cure but it suppose to help rebuild the cartilage and tissues.
My husband takes this supplement and he says it helps him also.
I do not think it would hurt to start your buddy on this supplement. Light excersise like walks are good for arthritis.
I hope this info helps you.

Canidae platinum dog food has all kinds of vitamins in it for arthritis and joints and glucosamine, and it's all-natural with no corn, soy, wheat, colorings, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It's one of the best dog foods you can find. I wouldn't really worry about putting your dog on drugs and stuff until you really notice the dog getting a little lame or stiff, just because it's not nessecary. Just give that food a look. There aren't any good-quality commercial dog foods out there.

Good Luck!