Best Joint Supplements for Dogs to Enhance Mobility and Comfort

If you’ve noticed that your senior dog is struggling to jump off the couch or navigate the stairs, it may be time to consider a joint supplement.

Available in various forms such as chews, powders, liquids, or capsules, these supplements often contain glucosamine and chondroitin—key compounds naturally found in cartilage that support joint health and mobility.

While there is still no definitive scientific consensus on the effectiveness of supplementing with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, some studies have reported a decrease in osteoarthritis-related discomfort.

Many veterinarians and pet owners also provide anecdotal evidence supporting their benefits, and these supplements are generally considered safe for use.

Nevertheless, it’s best to consult your veterinarian before adding any new supplement to your dog’s regimen. Not all supplements are created equal. Typically, vet-recommended brands are the most reliable.

Based on our research and testing, our top choice for overall joint health is the Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Joint Supplement. It contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and hyaluronic acid—ingredients frequently recommended by veterinarians for maintaining joint comfort and health.

Our Top Picks

Here, we present our carefully selected list of the best joint supplements for dogs. We’ve reviewed a wide range of products, comparing their ingredients, efficacy, and ease of use, so you can choose the one that best fits your dog’s needs.

Whether your pet is experiencing minor stiffness or requires significant joint support, these top picks offer reliable options to improve their mobility and comfort.

Best Overall

What We Like:

• Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM
• Suitable for all ages with dosage adjusted by weight
• Veterinarian-recommended
• Made in the United States

What We Don’t Like:

• May cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs

Each chewable tablet includes 600 mg of glucosamine sourced from shellfish and 300 mg of chondroitin derived from bovine cartilage. It also contains 250 mg of MSM, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which is also commonly used in people with osteoarthritis.

This supplement is suitable for dogs of all sizes, with dosage adjusted based on weight. For example, a 40-pound dog starts with two tablets a day before transitioning to one for maintenance.

The supplement comes in bottles of 75, 132, or 250 tablets and is also available in soft chew and capsule forms.

Quantity: 75, 132, 250 tablets
Flavors: N/A
Dose: 1 tablet for 16-30 pounds
Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, sodium chondroitin sulfate, MSM, manganese ascorbate

Best Chews

What We Like:

• Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Grain, corn, and soy-free
• Suitable for all sizes and ages
• NASC seal of quality

What We Don’t Like:

• Some dogs may experience gastrointestinal issues

Zesty Paws offers a wide range of pet supplements, and these Mobility Bites are packed with joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine (450 mg), MSM (400 mg), and chondroitin (125 mg).

Additionally, they include kelp, vitamin C, and vitamin E to promote overall joint health. These supplements are free from artificial additives and made without grain, corn, or soy.

They are suitable for dogs of all ages and sizes, with one chew recommended per 25 pounds of body weight. There are also specialized formulations, such as vet-strength chews and versions with added mussels or hemp for additional health benefits.

Quantity: 90, 180, 250 chews
Flavors: Bacon, duck
Dose: 1 chew per 25 pounds of body weight
Active Ingredients: Glucosamine HCl, MSM, vitamin C, chondroitin sulfate, kelp, vitamin E

Best Treats

What We Like:

• Only three simple ingredients
• No fillers, byproducts, or wheat
• Made in small batches in the United States

What We Don’t Like:

• Higher calorie content compared to some other options

Bocce’s Bakery makes limited-ingredient, crunchy treats that are perfect for pets with sensitivities. This peanut butter-flavored treat is designed to support hip and joint health and contains just three ingredients: oat flour, peanut butter, and glucosamine, delivering a minimum of 800 mg/kg of glucosamine.

The treats are oven-baked in small batches, and the ingredients are often locally sourced. While they are intended as a treat, you should be mindful of the 12 calories per piece, particularly if your dog is overweight or on a calorie-restricted diet.

Quantity: 12 ounces
Flavors: Peanut butter
Dose: Daily as a treat
Active Ingredients: Oat flour, peanut butter, glucosamine

Best Powder

What We Like:

• Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid
• Includes omega fatty acids and probiotics for overall health
• Easy to measure and mix with food
• NASC certified

What We Don’t Like:

• May be difficult to mix with dry kibble

Missing Link’s Hip and Joint Powder combines a variety of joint-supporting ingredients, including glucosamine (440 mg), MSM (250 mg), and chondroitin (100 mg).

It also includes flaxseed, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as kelp, taurine, and hyaluronic acid. The powdered format makes it easy to measure and adjust the dose.

The powder can be sprinkled directly onto wet food or mixed with broth to add to dry kibble. Starting with small amounts and gradually increasing is recommended to ensure your pet gets used to it.

Quantity: 8 ounces, 1 pound, 5 pounds
Flavor: Beef, salmon
Dose: 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of body weight
Active Ingredients: Omega 3, 9, and 6 fatty acids; glucosamine; MSM; rice bran; nutritional yeast; chondroitin

Best Omega-3

What We Like:

• Made using sustainable practices
• Suitable for both dogs and cats
• Available in two different sizes
• NASC certified

What We Don’t Like:

• Liquid form can be messy to dispense

Omega-3 fatty acids are great for joint health, and PetHonesty’s Omega-3 Fish Oil is made from wild-caught fish, including anchovies, sardines, herring, and mackerel.

This liquid supplement can be added directly to your pet’s food or administered orally, though it can be messy depending on how cooperative your dog is.

The supplement is available in 16-ounce or 32-ounce bottles, and it has received NASC certification, meaning it meets the highest standards for pet health and safety. Omega-3s are also beneficial for skin and coat health, making this a versatile option.

Quantity: 16, 32 ounces
Flavors: Fish (anchovies, sardines, herring, and mackerel)
Dose: 1 pump (2 milliliters) per 25 pounds of weight
Active Ingredients: Anchovy oil, sardine oil, herring oil, mackerel oil

Choosing the Right Joint Supplement for Your Dog

When selecting a joint supplement for your dog, consider a few important factors to ensure that you’re getting the best product for your pet’s needs:

1. Ingredients: The most effective joint supplements contain glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and sometimes hyaluronic acid. Look for these core ingredients, as they work synergistically to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

2. Form: Joint supplements come in a variety of forms, including chews, powders, liquids, and tablets. Choose the form that is easiest for your dog to consume. If your pet is picky, flavored chews or treats may be the best option.

3. Veterinarian Recommendations: Consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement. Vet-recommended brands are often more trustworthy and formulated with higher quality standards.

4. Additional Health Benefits: Some joint supplements offer additional health benefits, such as omega-3 fatty acids for coat health or probiotics for digestion. If your dog has multiple needs, consider a multifunctional supplement that provides additional support.

5. Price and Quality: Not all supplements are created equal, and quality can vary. Be sure to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients, and has undergone third-party testing.

Taking these factors into account will help you find a joint supplement that supports your dog’s mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.

Conclusion

Finding the right joint supplement can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life, especially as they age.

Whether you choose a chew, treat, powder, or liquid form, these supplements can help maintain your pet’s mobility and comfort.

Our top picks, from Nutramax Cosequin to PetHonesty Omega-3, offer a range of options for different needs and preferences.

Always consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on a new supplement to ensure it is the right choice for their health.