Best Dog Food with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, MSM
Is Dog Food High in Glucosamine & Chondroitin Necessary?
As much as we love our dogs, we want what’s best for them. That’s why feed them the best dog food possible, with all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active. But sometimes, even the best dog food isn’t enough. If your dog is suffering from joint pain, you may want to give your dog food that has glucosamine and chondroitin.
Dog owners need to be aware of the need to nourish their dog’s joints, especially for active, senior, and large breeds. For active and sporty dogs, there are a lot of demands on their joints due to their higher mobility. For senior dogs, degeneration of joint tissue and cartilage happens as your dog ages. In the case of large breeds, there are more susceptible to joint issues due to their physical size and weight.
Mobility problems in dogs are often easily noticeable. For example, some of these signs would include:
- Finding it hard work to get out of bed
- Not running as fast as before
- Lameness where the dog holds a limb up
- Difficulty in climbing stairs
- Difficulty in jumping up on things.
Table of Contents
Causes of Joints Damage and Arthritis
One of the most common causes of impaired mobility is when joint issues happen due to the wearing out of the cartilage. Cartilage is a tissue that works as padding between bones and acts as a shock absorber. As the cartilage thins out, this can result in the joints coming in contact with each other, thus becoming painful and making the dog uncomfortable and hard to move.
The most affected areas are the dog’s hips, elbows, and knees. In times to come, the cartilage gets worn out completely and the joint gets damaged, leading to arthritis.
Remedies for Arthritis and Joint Pain
When the above joint pain and mobility issues occur, you can help to improve your dog’s condition with the following:
- Feeding them with Dog Food fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin.
- Giving Hip and Joint Supplement to your dog.
- Physical Therapy such as hydrotherapy and massage.
- Active Weight Management to prevent obesity, that is keeping your dog’s weight down will improve his condition. The body condition system (BCS) is used to determine the proper size of your dog. It ranks a dog’s body based on the amount of fat that covers his ribs, back, and base of the tail. A BCS score of 5 is considered the ideal weight for a dog.
BODY CONDITION SYSTEM (BCS)
What are Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM?
Glucosamine, Chondroitin sulfate and Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) are unique substances that work together to support joint health and mobility.
- Glucosamine is substance found in the fluid around the joints. It helps in keeping the bones apart for longer, thereby reducing wear and pain. It can be obtained from the shells of crabs, shrimp, lobster or made in the laboratory.
- Chondroitin Sulfate is a substance found in the cartilage around joints. It helps to maintain and rebuild the joint cartilage that is covering the ends of bones at joints.
- MSM is believed to provide compounds that might inhibit pain.
Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM work in unison to lubricate the dog’s joints, repair ligaments, slow down wear and tear thereby improving mobility and preventing the onset of arthritis.
Use Quality Brands
With the important considerations above, we are recommending a list of high-quality dog food products that are fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin for your review and selection. One of the reasons many owners use quality and popular brands as those that we have reviewed here is that they are assured of the quality and strength of the ingredients in the formulation of that brand.
Top 3 Picks For Quality Glucosamine Dog Food
We have reviewed and featured some of the best dog food with Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM.
At At Glance: The Best Dog Food with Glucosamine, Chondroitin & MSM
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Chicken meal, Brown Rice, Flaxseed, Dried Tomato Pomace, Barley, Dry Chicory Root, Peas, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Garlic, Blueberries, Cranberries, Dried Kelp, Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, Vitamins, Minerals, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, etc.
Highlights:
- BLUE BUFFALO Life Protection Large Breed Dog Food with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
- Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe.
- Joint health and mobility from glucosamine included.
- Muscle development from high quality protein from real chicken
- Healthy Dog’s skin and coat from Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- Immune System Health from ‘LifeSource Bits’ which is a unique blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- Balanced meal with proteins, vegetables, vitamins
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1200 mg/kg.
- 30 lb bag.
Summary:
BLUE BUFFALO makes high quality pet food and is based in USA. With its “True Blue Promise” it provides high quality dog food that has (a) no poultry by-products, (b) no corn, wheat or soy, and (c) no artificial preservatives. Overall this BLUE LIFE PROTECTION Adult Large Breed Formula provides superior nutrition for your dog’s overall health. The formulation also helps to promote joint-health and build strong muscles. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate quoted amount for this product is 1200 mg/kg minimum.
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Whole Grain Brown Rice, Split Peas, Whole Grain Sorghum, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Whole Grain Barley, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Salt, Vitamins, minerals.
Highlights:
- NUTRO Natural Choice Large Breed Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
- Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin from natural sources to support healthy bones and joints.
- Real Lamb as high quality protein source.
- No Corn, wheat or soy.
- Antioxidants to support healthy immunity.
- Healthy digestion from probiotics
- No fillers, corn, wheat or soy.
- 30 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1100 mg/kg
Summary:
Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a Lamb and Brown Rice Recipe. It has lamb as the first ingredient for protein. Made with non-GMO ingredients and has no corn, wheat and soy. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate quoted total amount for this dog food is 1100 mg/kg.
MERRICK Backcountry Raw Infused Large Breed Recipe
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Salmon Meal, Potato Protein, Lamb, Duck, Chicken Liver, Apples, Blueberries, Gelatin, Salt, Organic Dried Alfalfa Meal, Niacin, Biotin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- MERRICK Backcountry Large Breed Dog Food
- High levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to promote healthy joints and mobility
- Protein-Rich kibble with deboned chicken as key protein ingredient
- Freeze-Dried Raw chicken pieces provide fresh meat taste and nutrition.
- Grain free recipe with no gluten
- Omega 3 fatty acids richness for healthy dog’s coat and skin.
- Package sizes include: 12lb, and 22 lb.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 2400 mg/kg.
Summary:
MERRICK BACKCOUNTRY Grain Free Large Breed dog food is made with quality ingredients in Merrick’s USA. This recipe contains protein-rich kibble plus freeze-dried real chicken pieces providing the nutritional benefits for your large breed dog. High concentration of glucosamine and chondroitin is present to support healthy joints and hips. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulphate quoted amount for this product total up to 2400 mg/kg.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Soybean Meal, Dried Beet Pulp, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, Flaxseed, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- HILL’S SCIENCE DIET Healthy Mobility, Large Breed Dog Food
- Healthy joints and cartilage from natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate included
- Premium proteins from real chicken without chicken by-product meal.
- Improved Mobility from EPA derived from fish oil
- Natural ingredients and fibers to give your dog a great and satisfied meal
- Strong immune system from antioxidants, Vitamin C and E.
- Strong Bones with balanced minerals
- Highly recommended by U.S veterinarians.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1000 mg/kg.
- 30 lb bag.
Summary:
This Hill’s Science Diet Large Breed Healthy Mobility dog food is made in the USA. It’s key benefits is in its advanced nutrition in supporting your dog’s joint health and in improving their mobility. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are in its ingredients with a quoted total amount of 1000 mg/kg minimum.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Heart, New Zealand Green Mussel, Chicken Bone, Lecithin, Inulin from Chicory, Dried Kelp, Salt, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- ZIWI Peak Air Dried Adult Dog Food
- Free Range Chicken Recipe with No Grains.
- Maximum nutrients and taste preservation from twin-stage, air-drying process.
- 96% fresh meat organs, NA green mussels for dense nutrients
- Omega 3 fatty acids to enhance mobility
- No fillers such as Legumes, peas, potatoes, soy, grains
- Package sizes 1, 2.2, 5.5 and 8.8 lb.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1300 mg/kg.
- 8.8 lb bag.
Summary:
ZIWI PEAK is crafted with goodness and made in New Zealand. This dog food has up to 96% meat, organs and New Zealand green mussels. Overall, this air-dried free-range chicken dog food is prepare to provide peak nutrition for your dog for all life stages which makes it a great diet to give to your dog. The joint health of your dog is also enhanced with its Chondroitin Sulphate quoted at 1300 mg/kg minimum.
Key Ingredients:
Beef meal, Chicken meal, Pork meal, Whole Grain millet, Tomato Pomace, Dried Seaweed Meal, Selenium Yeast, Vitamins, Minerals, Prebiotics, Probiotics, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, etc.
Highlights:
- VICTOR Performance Dog Food
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin supporting joint health
- Nutrient dense protein from high quality beef, chicken and pork meals,
- Healthy coat and skin from Omega-3 (Linolenic acid) and Omega-6 (Linoleic acid)
- Cellular regeneration and metabolic function support from selenium yeast
- Prebiotic and probiotics promoting healthy digestive system and immune system.
- 40 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1150 mg/kg.
Summary:
VICTOR products are produced in USA, Texas based facilities. This multi-protein, nutrient dense formula is formulated for adult dogs that are highly physical active requiring lots of energy and sustained stamina. The physical demands on the dog makes them more susceptible to joint and mobility issues. Together with the Glucosamine and Chondroitin present, this makes this an excellent choice for active dog as well as larger breeds. The quoted Glucosamine and Chondroitin is 1150 mg/kg.
Key Ingredients:
Beef Meal, Peas, Sweet Potato, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed Tocopherols), Menhaden Fish Meal (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Tomato Pomace, Salt, Organic Dried Seaweed Meal, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Calcium Stearate, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- VICTOR Hero Canine Dog Food
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin in nutrient dense recipe to support joint health
- Unique VPRO Blend promote superior digestibility and immune system function.
- Great for highly active adult dogs that are susceptible to joint issues later in life.
- Vitamins and minerals Fortified with essential fatty acids, protein and amino acids.
- Grain-free recipe for dogs with allergies or sensitivity to grain.
- 30 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1100 mg/kg.
Summary:
VICTOR Purpose Hero Grain-Free Dog Food with Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a multi-protein, nutrient-dense recipe is formulated for highly active adult dogs for joint health. Its is a grain free formulation for dogs with allergies to grains. It has premium quality beef, pork and fish meals that provides the nutrients your dog needs. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin quoted amount for this product is 1100 mg/kg.
DOGSWELL HAPPY HIPS Adult Dog Food with Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken meal, Brown Rice, Oats, Peas, Flaxseeds, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Dried Apples, Dried Blueberries, Yeast Culture, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Vitamins, Minerals, etc.
Highlights:
- DOGSWELL Happy Hips Adult Dog Food
- Chicken and Oats Recipe
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin fortified recipe to support joint health and wellness.
- Real, hormone-free chicken ingredient support healthy muscle development.
- Antioxidants for stronger immunity from blueberries, sweet potatoes and others
- Energy for your dog from oats, peas, brown rice
- Fiber-rich meal provided from fruits and vegetables giving intestinal and digestion health.
- No artificial flavours, colors, or preservatives.
- 22.5 lb bag
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 900 mg/kg.
Summary:
DOGSWELL mission is to make pets happy, running, jumping for many years to come. This DOGSWELL HAPPY HIPS Vitality, Chicken & Oats recipe dog food product is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support proactive hip and joint wellness. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin quoted amount for this product is 900 mg/kg.
CANIDAE PURE Senior Dog Food
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans, potatoes, suncured alfalfa, chicken fat, Vitamins, minerals, probiotics mix.
Highlights:
- CANIDAE Pure Senior Dog Food
- Real Chicken, Sweet Potato and Garbanzo Bean Recipe
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin naturally occuring in support of healthy bones and joints.
- Grain free making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Beautiful skin and coat support from Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- Healthy immune system from antioxidants
- Healthy digestion from probiotics
- No fillers, corn, wheat or soy.
- 24 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 2600 mg/kg
Summary:
This CANIDAE PURE Grain Free Limited Ingredient Senior Dog Food is made by PET PEOPLE in USA. Its is formulated for all dogs and particular those with food sensitivities. It comes with real meat, added antioxidants, added probiotics and naturally occurring glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate quoted total amount for this dog food is 2600 mg/kg.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Ground White Rice, Egg, Oatmeal, Rice Bran, Dried Beet Pulp, Taurine, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Chicory Root, L-Carnitine, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Beta Carotene, Chondroitin Sulfate, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- DIAMOND Natural Senior Dog Food
- Chicken, Egg and Oatmeal Recipe
- Healthy joints and cartilage from glucosamine and chondroitin included
- Quality Protein from Cage-free chicken as key ingredient
- Immune system support from superfoods such as blueberries, oranges acts as antioxidants
- Optimised nutrition from vegetable, fruits, vitamins and minerals
- Healthy dog’s skin and shiny coat from Omega-6 and Omega-3 Fatty acids coming from chia seeds, flaxseed and others.
- Probiotics for strengthening your dog’s digestive systems
- 35 lb bag
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 960 mg/kg.
Summary:
This DIAMOND NATURALS Senior Dog Food is made by DIAMOND PETS FOOD in the USA using high quality ingredients with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. Your dog’s lean and strong muscle development is enhanced with the high quality protein coming from cage free chicken. The guaranteed levels of glucosamine and chondroitin will be great for supporting your dog’s joints and cartilage. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin quoted total amount for this product is 960 mg/kg minimum.
WELLNESS Complete Health Senior Dog Food For Hip & Joint Health
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Barley, Oatmeal, Ground Flaxseed, Tomatoes, Spinach, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Green Tea Extract, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Glucosamine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Omega-3, Omega-6 Fatty acids, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.
Highlights:
- WELLNESS Complete Health Senior Dog Food
- Gluocosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate supporting hip and joint health
- High quality protein from chicken.
- Optimal health from Vitamins and minerals
- Healthy teeth and gum from calcium and phosphorous
- Digestive Health from probiotics, prebiotics and natural fiber combination
- Skin and Coat Health with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from flaxseeds
- Antioxidants from ingredients like blueberries, spinach to strengthen immune system
- 30 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 1500 mg/kg.
Summary:
This WELLNESS Complete Health Senior Dog Food is made in the USA with natural ingredients and superior nutrients for senior dogs. Make with “The Wellness Way” the dog food contains no meat by-products, no wheat, corn or soy, and. no artificial colours and preservatives. With its wellness focus and the glucosamine and chondroitin ingredients, this product is one quality dog food for your dog’s joint health. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin quoted total amount for this product is 1500 mg/kg.
NULO Freestyle Grain-Free Senior
Key Ingredients:
Deboned Trout, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, Sweet Potato, Chickpeas, Deboned Turkey, Pea Fiber, Lentils, Natural Flavor, Yeast Culture, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Tomatoes, Dried Carrots, Dried Blueberries, Dried Apples, Salt, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals,
Highlights:
- NULO Freestyle Senior Dog Food
- Trout and Sweet Potato Recipe
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support joint and hip health.
- High level of animal based protein from turkey and trout to support lean muscle growth and a healthy heart.
- Brilliant skin and coat support from Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids
- Healthy immune system from vegetable and fruits.
- Gastrointestinal health from probiotics
- 24 lb bag.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate amount is 700 mg/kg.
Summary:
This NULO Freestyle Senior Grain Free Dog Food With Glucosamine And Chondroitin, Trout And Sweet Potato Recipe is made in USA. Without chicken and eggs ingredients, it is a great alternative protein source for your dog if necessary. The recipe together with its glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate provides a balanced nutrition for your adult and senior dogs. The Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate quoted total amount for this dog food is 700 mg/kg.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog food for joint problems
The best dog food for joint problems is to give them dog food with glucosamine and chondroitin. To ensure that the presence of these ingredients, it is important to select high quality dog food that has guaranteed analysis of the quantity of glucosamine and chondroitin in the dog food.
When should I give my dog glucosamine?
For your active and sporty dog, generally you can provide glucosamine from 1 to 2 years old so as to promote joint mobility, joint health and prevent joint degradation of your active dog,
At what age should you give your dog glucosamine?
For your older dog, joint stiffness and issues often happens so it is good to give dog food with glucosamine for senior dogs. This will reduce the impact of this degenerative disease.
In addition, it also depends on your dog’s breed. For large breeds, then is typically slightly earlier which is around 4-5 years of age and for small breeds around 6-8 years of age.
How much glucosamine is safe for dogs?
When you select the specific dog food with glucosamine and chondroitin for your dog based on the breed size and stage of life, the dog food are prepared with defined guaranteed analysis of these ingredients and are deemed to be safe for your dog.
How long does it take for glucosamine to start working in dogs?
It probably take about 4 to 6 weeks to see any improvements in your dog’s condition, as such do not expect immediate result when feeding dog food with glucosamine and chondroitin. With improvement in your dog’s condition, this will also enhance the quality of your dog’s life.
Quality Glucosamine Supplements For Dogs
Joint “Rescue” is an excellent choice for pets with visible morning stiffness, difficulty running and playing as well as stiffness associated with aging.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate help to supply and build glycosaminoglycans (GAGS) and collagen necessary to create synovial fluid.
- Boswellia, curcumin (from turmeric), bromelain, and yucca help reduce visible discomfort and make your pet more comfortable as they continue with normal activity or daily exercise
- Antioxidants and minerals help to protect against free radicals that cause cellular damage.
- Additionally the antioxidants and minerals in Joint “Rescue”® help to increase the absorption of the glucosamine.
- Builds stronger bones and new cartilage
- Relieve stiff joints & enhance joint flexibility with collagen
- Creates healthy nails, coat and skin
- Increases overall activity and mobility in your dogs
- Made With 100% Natural Ingredients. GMO Free & Zero Chemicals
- Made in USA
Pawstruck Hip & Joint Supplement Soft Chews promote healthy joint mobility, alleviate joint discomfort, and support healthy skin and coat.
Made with a powerful blend of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Glucosamine, Chondroitin, as well as MSM and Boswellia. These tasty soft chews are great health supplements for dogs suffering from arthritis or hip dysplasia. They are also great preventative measures to keep your pup healthy and active.
Soft enough to be crumbled over a food bowl but firm enough to be given as a complete healthy joint treat to all dog breeds. No more struggling with bulky pills – your furry pal thinks these soft chews are a treat and will look forward to getting their supplements.
Made with healthy & high-quality natural ingredients. No added artificial preservatives. Made in the USA.
Joint care health supplement for dogs to improve their mobility and overall joint health. These tasty chewable are effective, powerful, and beneficial for dogs of all ages. Boosting the energy levels and vitality in both young and senior dogs. Also, aids in improving your dog’s skin and coat health.
No added artificial preservatives. Made with quality ingredients such as fresh chicken, Australian poultry meals, fish meal, whole grains and rice, soy flour, shrimp, honey, kelp, flax seeds, and more. The chewable is tasty, delicious, and can be given as a healthy joint treat to all dog breeds.
Conclusion
As dogs gets older, the joints deteriorates naturally. It’s painful for dog owners to see their dogs go through joint, hip pains and mobility issues. This can be witnessed by the dog being unable to perform activities like going out for walk or run or climbing up and down the stairs.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly recommended by veterinarians for joint health and mobility instead of the adverse effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or other forms of therapy. Glucosamine acts mainly to help reduce the dog’s pain during physical activity while Chondroitin is aimed at stimulating cartilage repair.
Thus, as dog owners, you can look for dog food with glucosamine and chondroitin ingredients included when you need help in nourishing our dog’s joints leading to lesser joint problems, pain, and better joint health.
The dog food recommendations provided here are from quality brands such as BLUE BUFFALO, MERRICK, DIAMOND NATURALS, WELLNESS, and others. These products have included glucosamine and chondroitin ingredients in their dog food formulation – as such you are highly encouraged to choose from any of them.