When Should I Start My Dog on a Joint Supplement?

Short answer: many owners start a joint supplement when their dog reaches middle age (around 5 to 7 years), or earlier, from about 1 to 2 years, for large, giant or very active breeds. Joint supplements are usually used to support healthy joints over the long term, so starting before you notice stiffness is common. If your dog already seems stiff or sore, see your vet first.

Dogs that may benefit from starting earlier

• Large and giant breeds, which carry more weight on their joints.
• Breeds with a higher risk of joint problems. PDSA lists Labradors, Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
• Working, agility and very active dogs that run, jump and turn hard.
• Dogs with a past injury to a leg or joint.
• Overweight dogs. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the most useful things you can do for their joints.

Signs to look out for

Joint changes often come on slowly, so they are easy to miss. PDSA highlights signs such as:

• stiffness, especially after resting or after a walk
• limping, or slowing down on walks
• reluctance to jump into the car, onto the sofa or up the stairs
• sleeping more, or seeming quieter or grumpier than usual
• licking a particular joint

If you notice any of these, book a vet check before relying on a supplement. PDSA notes that joint supplements are not a replacement for medication and don't work for every dog, though they can usually be given alongside most medicines.

What to look for in a joint supplement

• Glucosamine and chondroitin: building blocks found naturally in cartilage.
• Green-lipped mussel: a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine-like compounds.
• MSM: a source of sulphur, often paired with glucosamine.
• Collagen (such as UC-II): a protein found in cartilage.
• Clear amounts per serving on the label, and feeding guidance by weight.

Our hip and joint ingredients guide explains each one in more detail.

How long before you notice anything?

Joint supplements take longer than medicines to have any effect. Give them every day for at least six to eight weeks before deciding whether they suit your dog, and keep up gentle, regular exercise and a healthy weight alongside them.

How Lakshio Hip and Joint Chews fit in

Lakshio Hip and Joint Chews combine 500 mg glucosamine per 2 chews with chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel and UC-II collagen in a soft chew. Daily amounts: up to 11 kg, 1 chew; 12 to 34 kg, 2 chews; over 34 kg, 3 chews. Start with half for the first week. A 300 g tub holds 120 chews and is made in a GMP and ISO 9001-certified facility.

Because joint support is a long-term routine, Subscribe and save takes 15% off every delivery, and you can choose every 6 weeks, 2 months or 4 months. Browse all hip and joint supplements for dogs.

Quick questions

Can I give a joint supplement to a puppy?

Growing puppies have their own nutritional needs. Ask your vet before giving a joint supplement to a dog under 12 months, especially large breeds.

Is it too late to start with an older dog?

No. Many owners start with senior dogs. Have your vet check any stiffness first, so nothing that needs treatment is missed.

Can I give it with other supplements?

Usually yes, but check the combined amounts and tell your vet everything your dog takes.

This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Lakshio chews are complementary feed for dogs and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease. Sources: PDSA Pet Health Hub.