This is Part 2 of a two-part series. Begin with Part 1: Can Diet and Supplements Help Prevent or Slow Down Seizure Activity in Dogs?
The recommendations below apply to both people and dogs, although dosages and nutritional needs differ.
I have arthritis myself and have spent many years researching and trying natural supplements for pain relief. Over the years, I have probably tried a hundred different products, with very few providing noticeable benefits. Many supplements advertised on Facebook and the internet make impressive claims, but only a handful have scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness.
Diet Comes First
Before considering supplements, it is important to address diet.
For dogs, I recommend a species-appropriate raw diet that is low in starch and free of added sugars. Dogs are carnivores, and their nutritional needs are best met through animal protein, animal fat and an appropriate calcium source, such as ground bone. A balanced raw diet consisting of muscle meat, organ meat, fat and bone provides these essential nutrients while avoiding unnecessary carbohydrates.
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For dogs with arthritis or chronic inflammation, I recommend avoiding grains and high-starch foods such as potatoes, corn, rice, sweet potatoes and excessive fruit.
For people, reducing refined sugars – including candy, soft drinks, pastries and other processed foods – may also help support overall health and reduce inflammation.
Supplements That May Help
No supplement completely eliminates arthritis or chronic pain, but several have shown benefits in research or clinical use.
Fish Oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)
Fish oil is one of the few supplements with substantial evidence supporting its ability to help reduce inflammation. The active omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, have been shown to benefit both people and dogs with arthritis.
For dogs, I generally recommend:
- Small dogs: One 1,000 mg capsule daily
- Medium dogs: Two capsules daily
- Large dogs: Four capsules daily
Each capsule should contain approximately 180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA, or higher.
I prefer capsules over bottled fish oil because exposure to air and light can oxidize and damage the omega-3 fatty acids over time. Feeding canned sardines or salmon packed in water is also beneficial, but therapeutic amounts of EPA and DHA generally require additional supplementation.
Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II)
Undenatured Type II collagen has shown promise in reducing joint discomfort, particularly involving the knees and patellas. It appears to work by helping regulate the immune response associated with joint inflammation.
Several manufacturers produce quality UC-II supplements for both humans and dogs.
Green-Lipped Mussel
Green-lipped mussel contains naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids and glycosaminoglycans that may help support joint health and reduce inflammation.
If you are purchasing a joint supplement for your dog, I recommend choosing one that includes green-lipped mussel among its ingredients. One option is B-Naturals Joint Care Relief.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 plays an important role in immune function, bone health and muscle function. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may also support overall health, although research on its direct effect on arthritis pain is still ongoing.
Be sure to use vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, rather than vitamin D2.
Personally, I take approximately 6,000 IU daily. For my dogs, I typically supplement approximately:
- Small dogs: 200 IU daily
- Large dogs: Up to 1,000 IU daily
Because excessive vitamin D can be toxic, especially in dogs, supplementation should remain within appropriate guidelines and should not be excessive.
Eggshell Membrane
I have tried eggshell membrane supplements but did not personally observe significant improvement. Some studies suggest they may help certain individuals, but my own experience has been disappointing.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications can provide pain relief for dogs with arthritis. However, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can have side effects, particularly involving the stomach, liver and kidneys.
If your veterinarian prescribes an NSAID, always administer it exactly as directed and with food unless instructed otherwise. Regular veterinary monitoring is recommended for dogs receiving long-term NSAID therapy.
Final Thoughts
No supplement is a miracle cure for arthritis. However, combining a species-appropriate diet, maintaining a healthy body weight, providing regular low-impact exercise and using evidence-based supplements can often improve comfort and mobility.
As new research becomes available, I will continue updating these recommendations. For additional reading, see Three Anti-Inflammatory Supplements Can Really Fight Disease, According to Science from Scientific American.
Return to Part 1: Can Diet and Supplements Help Prevent or Slow Down Seizure Activity in Dogs?
