In light of Moose’s limping (and my suspicion that it is related to hip dysplasia), I spent some time today researching glucosamine and chondroitin.
Glucosamine is found naturally in the body in cartilage and synovial fluid (the lubricating fluid in your joints). Adding a glucosamine supplement is believed to help repair and protect cartilage that may be damaged by arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint disorders like bursitis, tendinitis, inflamed discs, and even carpal tunnel syndrome. Glucosamine is used by humans as well as dogs and cats for the same ailments. You and your pets can take the same supplement (though probably in different amounts).
Chondroitin also occurs naturally in cartilage. This compound helps enhance the elastic properties of cartilage and keep joints hydrated. Chondroitin may also protect joints against damaging enzymes. There are some concerns that chondroitin may be difficult for your pet’s body to absorb; some companies offer a modified chondroitin that can be more absorbable.
Glucosamine can be taken orally as a pill, powder, or liquid. Liquid supplements are thought to offer the best absorption. You may even find pet treats like biscuits, chews, and jerky that contain glucosamine and chondroitin! There are even dry and canned dog foods that provide a dose of glucosamine and chondroitin with every meal (Nutro comes to mind, but I’m sure there are others).
You may want to think about offering a glucosamine supplement around the age of three or four in breeds that are more susceptible to hip dysplasia and other joint problems. These supplements may be better at preventing damage than repairing it.
As for how much your pet should get, I’ve seen a lot of varying suggestions. One supplement manufacturer suggests that a large dog (between sixty and seventy pounds) should get 2000 milligrams of glucosamine daily. Personally, I’m going to ask my vet. I guess I’m suspicious of a supplement manufacturer’s claim — they could just be trying to sell more pills.