Is Glucosamine Safe for Dogs?

Glucosamine is a natural building block in bones and cartilage.  It is found in animals, fish, plants and fungi.  Because of the important role glucosamine plays in cartilage, it has been used for more than 20 years as a supplement to promote joint health.

Glucosamine has been thoroughly studied, and it has been consistently found to have few side effects in dogs (or in humans).  Most dogs do not experience any form of adverse reaction.  The most significant side effects are typically vomiting or diarrhea, but these are rare and usually not severe.  In addition, for dogs that have a reaction, mixing glucosamine with food, or giving smaller amounts more frequently usually eliminates the side effects.

As with any supplement or medication, check with your vet before giving your dog a new product. 

Glucosamine & Chondroitin for Hip Dysplasia & Arthritis in Dogs, Doctors Foster and Smith, (accessed 8/2011)
Is it Safe to Use Glucosamine Sulfate on Dogs?, eHow (accessed 8/2011)