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Best hip and joint supplement for dogs

Best Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs 2025: Top Picks for Mobility & Comfort

Written by: Dr. Kathryn Dench

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Time to read 12 min

Hip and joint health in dogs means optimal overall wellbeing of your dog’s hips and joints, including cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding tissues. 

Your dog must have optimal joint function for mobility and comfort. To support and boost joint health, many veterinarians recommend hip and joint supplements for dogs.

In this article, we take a look at some of the top picks for the best hip and joint supplements for dogs for mobility and comfort.

How Hip and Joint Supplements Help Dogs

Healthy hip and joint in dogs

Hip and joint supplements for dogs are designed to promote joint function and structure, especially in senior dogs and breeds prone to orthopedic issues. While these supplements don’t cure joint problems, they form part of a holistic treatment plan.


Joint supplements are made with active ingredients like chondroitin, glucosamine, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote joint health. These active ingredients help dogs in the following ways:

Reducing inflammation and pain

Active ingredients like turmeric, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint stiffness, pain, and inflammation. While these supplements aren’t a cure for arthritis, they can help slow its progression while boosting a dog’s mobility.

Supporting cartilage and joint health

Chondroitin is found in healthy cartilage. Taken as a supplement together with glucosamine, it helps reduce cartilage breakdown by promoting joint lubrication. Glucosamine sulfate is effective in preventing the joint degeneration which impairs dogs' mobility.

Improving mobility and activity levels

Research has shown that dogs that use joint supplements containing the major active ingredients may start to show improvement in mobility within four to six weeks. With improved mobility, a dog’s activity level improves. As the supplements reduce joint pain, dogs become comfortable, boosting their overall quality of life.

What to Look for in the Best Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs

What to look for in the best hip and joint supplement for dogs

For your dog to obtain maximum benefits from joint supplements, the formulations must contain at least one or two of the following major active ingredients. Also, you must consider the product's safety and quality and the recommended dosage.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a well-researched supplement ingredient popularly used to support joint health in dogs, especially those with age-related stiffness or osteoarthritis. It's safe for long-term use, though results can vary from dog to dog.


To best support your dog’s joint health, choose a supplement containing glucosamine sulfate. While both glucosamine sulfate and hydrochloride are commonly used, some evidence—mainly from human studies—suggests that glucosamine sulfate may offer better support for joint function.


The benefits of using glucosamine include:

  • It supports cartilage maintenance

  • It may reduce inflammation

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in healthy joint fluid, plays a key role in reducing friction between bones and maintaining proper joint lubrication. 


As dogs age, their natural levels of hyaluronic acid tend to decrease, which can contribute to joint stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility. Supplementing with hyaluronic acid can help support joint function, particularly in older dogs or those with arthritis. Including it as part of a joint supplement routine may promote comfort, mobility, and overall joint health.


Benefits may include:

  • Pain relief

  • Reduced joint friction

  • Improved joint lubrication

  • Enhanced mobility

  • Cartilage health support

Chondroitin

Like glucosamine, there’s scientific evidence that chondroitin is effective for joint issues and is recommended by veterinarians. It contains natural properties that help form hyaline cartilage and has better absorption levels.


Hyaline cartilage is a type of cartilage that helps with shock absorption and impact in the joints during active engagement. It also helps with proper joint articulation, reducing the likelihood of joint tears.


The benefits may include:

  • Reduced inflammation

  • Alleviated pain

  • Improved flexibility

  • Better shock absorption and joint elasticity, reducing joint injuries

While glucosamine and chondroitin may not directly regenerate damaged cartilage, they are often used together to help slow the progression of joint degeneration and maintain mobility and comfort, particularly in older or active dogs.

Omega-3 fatty acids

To support and maintain healthy joints, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those sourced from fish oils, are among the most beneficial supplements. These have anti-inflammatory properties that are good for joint health. The essential fats found in omega-3 fatty acids contain eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), compounds that work together to support joint health.


The benefits may include:

  • Boosted mobility and flexibility

  • Reduced joint stiffness and inflammation

  • Slower cartilage degeneration

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

A natural sulfur compound, MSM contains anti-inflammatory and joint-supporting compounds that support overall joint health. MSM is often included in joint supplements alongside glucosamine and chondroitin.


The benefits may include:

  • Removes inflammation-causing toxins

  • Supports and maintains joint cartilage

  • Enhances mobility by reducing joint stiffness

Turmeric

Turmeric is a popular, well-researched herb known for its various medicinal values. It contains curcumin, an active component with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.


The possible advantages are:

  • Reduced inflammation and joint pain

  • The antioxidants help protect joint tissue from damage

  • Alleviated joint discomfort and stiffness

  • Arthritis management

  • Curcumin fights oxidative stress that worsens joint damage over time

Dosage and administration

Ensure you strictly follow the dosage recommendations when giving your dog joint supplements. This will ensure your dog gets the full benefits from them.


The dosage will vary depending on the dog’s weight, age, and size.


Monitor your dog’s response to the supplements. Watch out for reactions and signs of gastrointestinal upset like vomiting and diarrhea. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Quality and third-party testing

Only purchase supplements from quality brands that pay attention to high manufacturing standards and ingredient sourcing. Ensure that the products have undergone third-party testing and are backed by scientific evidence.


Third-party testing verifies the ingredients list and that the product doesn’t contain toxic substances. It ensures the product doesn't contain harmful contaminants like artificial flavors and colors.

How to Choose the Right Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs

Choose the right hip and joint supplement for dogs

Before making that final purchase, consider the following:

Your dog's age

For young, active dogs, the goal is to maintain joint health and prevent future issues. Supplements in this category focus on supporting healthy cartilage and reducing stress on joints before any damage occurs. Ingredients glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 work together to keep joints in optimal condition and support long-term mobility.


For dogs already showing signs of joint pain, stiffness, or osteoarthritis, the focus shifts to reducing inflammation and repairing damaged cartilage. These supplements tend to have higher doses of anti-inflammatory ingredients. These ingredients, like glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, omega-3, and turmeric (or curcumin) specifically target joint inflammation and pain relief, which are more important for dogs dealing with arthritis or aging joints.

Ingredient quality

When researching for the best joint supplement on the market, your best guide is the product’s ingredient list. Look out for well-researched, high-quality ingredients to help with joint health, like chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, MSM, and glucosamine.


Hip and joint supplements for dogs come in various forms, including soft chews, powders, tablets, liquids, and products to add to food. Supplement form preference will vary from dog to dog, but chews are popular with most dogs.

Consult your vet

Always check with your vet before buying and introducing supplements to your dog. Your vet will give you expert guidance based on your dog’s medical history and specific needs.

The 5 Best Hip and Joint Supplements for Dogs

Here are our top picks for the best hip and joint supplement for dogs’ mobility and comfort.

1. Mobility-Max™ Advanced Hip & Joint Support Chews

Mobility-Max from Happy-Furever™ contains no artificial preservatives or colors and is made with four key ingredients clinically proven to support joint health. These ingredients are MSM, chondroitin, glucosamine, and green-lipped mussel (GLM). These are good for improving joint health, reducing oxidative stress, and repairing cartilage.


Since Mobility-Max from Happy-Furever™ has no artificial preservatives or colors, it is probably the best hip and joint supplement for dogs available on the market.

2. Zesty Paws Mobility Bites

Zesty mobility chews ingredients are glucosamine hydrochloride, MSM, and chondroitin sulfate. It’s good for joint lubrication, flexibility, and overall joint health.


The downside of this product is that it lists glucosamine hydrochloride as one of its ingredients. While glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine HCI help with joint health, HCI is a more concentrated solution with less clinical evidence for improving joint health.

3. Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM

As the name suggests, Nutramax Dasuquin contains MSM. It also contains chondroitin, avocado/soybean unsaponifiables (ASU), and glucosamine. It helps with supporting cartilage matrix production, joint comfort, and reducing cartilage degeneration.


The disadvantage of this product however, is that some of the inactive ingredients contain artificial flavors. For pet parents looking for all-natural ingredients, this product may not be ideal for you.

4. Vet’s Best Advanced Hip & Joint Supplement

Vet’s Best Hip and Joint Supplement's main ingredients are chondroitin sulfate, MSM, GLM, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine sulfate. These may help with joint mobility, connective tissue, and healthy cartilage support.


The disadvantage of this product is that it has no proof of third-party testing.

5. The Missing Link Hip & Joint Supplement

The Missing Link is a vet-developed powder containing MSM, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, and hyaluronic acid. It helps with cushioning and joint support, pain alleviation, and joint lubrication.


The downside of this product is that it contains a lot of unnecessary fillers in its inactive ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for joint supplements to work?

The effectiveness of hip and joint supplements will vary depending on the product's quality, form, and dosage, as well as the severity of your dog’s joint health and medical history. The approximate time is often between four to six weeks.

Can I give my dog human joint supplements?

No. You can’t share your human joint supplements with your furry friends without consulting your vet first. Human supplements may contain ingredients like green tea that are harmful to dogs.

Are there any side effects?

Although most supplements are safe and recommended by vets, some dogs may show side effects like gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions.

Conclusion

Hip and joint supplements can significantly improve your dog’s mobility and quality of life. Choosing the best hip and joint supplement for dogs depends on their specific needs and preferences. Once you include supplements in your dog’s joint health regimen, monitor their progress and regularly consult your vet.

Holistic and natural relief

The natural ingredients used are designed to provide holistic and natural relief from stress. Unlike traditional stress medication that can have negative side effects, Happy-Furever™ chews are manufactured with love and have no negative effects. Also, they contain no artificial flavors that may cause adverse effects on your dog.

Happy-Furever™ chews are great for separation anxiety, anxiety-inducing events like car rides and fireworks, and age-related anxiety.

Treat chronic inflammation

Severe inflammation can lead to a flare-up of complications in a dog's immune system leaving it vulnerable to other health issues.

Happy-Furever™ chews aren't only a calming aid but also provide relief from severe inflammation, boosting the immune system.

Promote overall wellness

Happy-Furever™ chews contain nutritional supplements that boost your dog's overall wellness.

How Do Calming Treats Work?

The cannabinoids in the treats interact with your dog's endocannabinoid system (ECS). This collaboration triggers the brain to release serotonin, a natural hormone that minimizes anxiety.

For the calming chews to work effectively, pet parents must strictly adhere to the instructions. Keep in mind the following:

Dosage

Stick to the dosage recommended. The dosage varies depending on your dog's weight, size, and lifestyle.

Trial

Start small and slow before gradually increasing the dosage to the maximum allowed. Start with a small dosage as you monitor how your dog reacts.

If you notice any allergic reaction like skin irritation and other symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, stop and consult your vet.

Expert consultation

Always consult your vet before using and introducing new products to your dog. This is vital especially if your dog has a medical condition and is on other medication.

Choosing the Best Calming Treats

With a variety of calm treats for dogs in the market, choosing the best products can be an overwhelming task for pet parents.

Before making that purchase, remember:

  • Look for products with natural ingredients

  • Avoid calming bites that have artificial ingredients and sweeteners and have high THC levels

  • Good calming treats should have a quality seal

  • Choose a calming treat that suits your dog's needs.

Conclusion

Canine anxiety doesn't have to give you sleepless nights or deny your dog a quality life. With the best calming treats for dogs in your medicine kit, your dog can still live the best life even in a stressful situation.

If you're looking for an alternative to traditional stress medication for your anxious dog, check out our product.

Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench, MA VetMB MRCVS

Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench

With nearly two decades of experience, Cambridge veterinarian Dr. Kathryn Dench is dedicated to enhancing animal health through holistic practices. A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, she focuses on preventive care over traditional methods, particularly for long-term wellness solutions in pets suffering from anxiety and chronic conditions. As Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins, she champions holistic strategies and education to revolutionize pet care practices.

Products Featured In This Blog

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Do Paw Origins products undergo laboratory testing?

Yes! Our manufacturing process involves undergoing 3 rounds of quality testing at 3rd-party laboratory at both the batch and product level. We have strict rules when it comes to quality and standards.


When testing, if a certain element is off on that batch, we throw away all of it and start over. After the product has been through the whole procedure, the testing is over and the product officially has a Certificate of Analysis (COA), which ensures the safety of your furry friends.


You will be surprised at the amount of garbage and harmful ingredients there are in cheap, low-quality products being sold in the market. They are extremely damaging to your pet’s health, and more dog owners should be aware of the ingredients used. Our products have ingredients you can read and pronounce, and contain only the highest quality organic ingredients.

Can CBD Happy-Furever™ help my dogs with pain management and joint problems?

CBD Happy-Furever™ may be helpful for dogs experiencing pain and joint problems. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are of particular interest in the treatment of conditions like arthritis, which is a common cause of pain and joint issues in dogs.


Research suggests that CBD can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, which can lead to improved mobility and a better quality of life for dogs with joint problems. A study published in the Journal of Pain in 2020 found that CBD could reduce pain and increase mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis when given twice daily.


Moreover, the analgesic properties of CBD can contribute to its pain management potential. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system in dogs, which plays a role in regulating pain, CBD may help dampen pain signals, providing relief from chronic pain and discomfort.


CBD Happy-Furever™ could be a supportive measure for managing pain and joint issues in dogs, potentially offering them a non-pharmaceutical option to improve their comfort and mobility.