Synovial joints and cartilage contain glucosamine, a compound that helps the body create new cartilage and repair damaged cartilage. Dogs tend to have joint problems as they age, but supplementing with glucosamine can help control arthritis pain and keep your dog mobile.
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Benefits
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Glucosamine has anti-inflammatory properties that make it an ideal supplement for several conditions in dogs, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and disc degeneration.
Time Frame
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Many dogs have reduced symptoms and less pain within two months of beginning a daily glucosamine supplement.
Fun Fact
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Glucosamine is also in claws, tendons, eyes, skin, bones, heart valves and ligaments.
Popularity
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Glucosamine is the most frequently recommended supplement for pets, according to the Pet Center website.
Dosage
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A typical dosage for a small dog is 500 mgs of glucosamine daily. Some large-breed dogs can take as much as 2,000 mgs daily. You can find pet formulas through veterinarians and pet stores, but glucosamine sold for humans is the same product but cheaper and easier to find.
Considerations
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California's Placerville Veterinary Clinic recommends dogs that are more than 60 pounds should start glucosamine supplements by age 3 or 4 to prevent damage.
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