Can supplements help with my dog‘s stiff joints?

Need to support your dog's stiff joints? →

The short answer!

Yes, joint supplements can help reduce stiffness, especially when started early.

Joint supplements can reduce stiffness in many dogs, particularly when started early. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids work by supporting cartilage repair, reducing inflammation, and improving joint lubrication. However, 'help' doesn't mean 'cure' - supplements are most effective at slowing progression and managing mild to moderate symptoms, not reversing severe joint disease (1).

Timing & Quality

Supplements work best at the first signs of stiffness, before major cartilage loss, yet many owners wait until their dog is really struggling. You can't regenerate cartilage that's already severely degraded, though supplements may still offer anti-inflammatory benefit.

Because the pet supplement industry is poorly regulated, look for products with third-party testing or manufacturing standards (like ISO) and appropriate daily amounts based on your dog's weight.

What's next?

If your dog improves but still has limitations, they may benefit from adding weight management, controlled exercise, physiotherapy, or pain medication on harder days. Supplements work best as part of a multimodall/layered approach.

References

  1. Bhathal A, Spryszak M, Louizos C, Frankel G. Glucosamine and chondroitin use in canines for osteoarthritis: A review. Open Vet J. 2017;7(1):36-49. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5356289/

This content is for general information only and does not replace veterinary advice. Supplements and nutritional products are not licensed veterinary medicines. Always speak to your vet before making changes to your dog’s diet, supplements, or care routine.

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owners also ask

How long does it take for joint supplements to work in dogs?

It depends - most dogs show small improvements in 2 to 3 weeks, in others it might take up to 8 weeks. Some dogs don't show improvements at all.

Why is my dog stiffer in the morning or after sleeping?

When your dog is resting, the lubricating fluid in their joints thickens up. The first few movements feel stiff because it takes time for the joints to warm up and circulation to improve.

What's the difference between joint stiffness and arthritis in dogs?

Joint stiffness is a symptom, arthritis is a disease that causes progressive joint damage. All arthritic dogs are 'stiff', but not all stiff dogs have arthritis.