Glucosamine and chondroitin are popular remedies for joint diseases in humans, cats and dogs. These natural, holistic supplements can reduce or eliminate the painful, debilitating symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and other degenerative diseases of an animal's joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin are among the safest and most effective treatments for osteoarthritis and bone disease in dogs. Despite their benefits, no known side effects or interactions are associated with glucosamine and chondroitin.
-
Defining Glucosamine and Chondroitin
-
Glucosamine and chondroitin are both found in the cartilage of healthy animals. In older dogs, the amount of glucosamine might decrease because the body begins to lose its ability to synthesize or digest the compound. Similarly, older animals might have difficulty absorbing dietary chondroitin, leading to a decrease in the amount found in the dog's own joints.
In dietary supplements, glucosamine is usually collected and manufactured as a by-product of the shellfish industry--the exoskeletons of crustaceans provide a large amount of absorbable glucosamine. Supplemental chondroitin is generally derived from cattle, but some forms are manufactured using shark tissue.
Mechanism of Action
-
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often sold in combination, but they function through different mechanisms. Supplements containing glucosamine can help compensate for the fact older dogs have a decreased ability to synthesize it and rebuild degrading cartilage. Glucosamine acts as a primary building-block to restore the strength and mass of a dog's cartilage.
Many older animals suffer from an overabundance of joint-depleting enzymes, and chondroitin helps neutralize and block these compounds. When dogs take supplements that contain chondroitin, they experience an increase in cartilage and a decrease in inflammation.
Safety
-
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements owe their popularity to the fact that they are associated with very few side effects or drug interactions. Humans, cats and dogs can take these nutritional supplements for decades with none of the dangerous side effects associated with NSAIDs or other medicinal pain-relievers. There are no known interactions between glucosamine-chondroitin and any veterinary medications.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that stomach problems are a common side effect for humans taking glucosamine and chondroitin, and it's likely dogs are also prone to this side effect. Gas, diarrhea and constipation are common, and some dogs might vomit if the supplement triggers a gag-reflex during administration.
Buying Glucosamine and Chondroitin for Dogs
-
Some manufacturers offer glucosamine and chondroitin supplements that are designed for veterinary use. They include flavored liquids and chewable treats, which can be easier to administer than pills and capsules designed for human use. Supplements designed for dogs might also be enhanced with vitamin C and trace minerals, which can help the dog absorb the product.
Glucosamine and chondroitin products designed for humans are also safe and may be be safer because they contain only human-grade ingredients. Some dogs will readily take a pill containing these supplements, while others might prefer liquid formulas. The dog should become accustomed to the product within a few days or weeks.
Duration of Treatment
-
While glucosamine and chondroitin are not addictive, they do not permanently alter the joints of animals who are receiving them. Dogs will gain relief from osteoarthritis and other joint diseases only if they continue to take the product. Dogs with osteoarthritis should take glucosamine and chondroitin indefinitely rather than ceasing treatment when symptoms improve.
According to the NIH, glucosamine's positive effects have been demonstrated in human and animal studies that take place over the course of four to 12 weeks. There is little evidence that the supplements can cause an immediate reduction in joint pain or inflammation.
-