Here’s everything you need to know about dog food with glucosamine, an amino acid that’s good for digestion and joint health. We'll explore what it is, why it’s important, and where to find it, including a unique source of glucosamine only found in New Zealand.
What is glucosamine?
Glucosamine is a combination of the amino acid glutamine and sugar glucose. It’s a substance that helps form and repair the cartilage of your dog’s joints to keep them healthy, strong, and mobile through all stages of life.
You may have also heard of chondroitin, which is another natural cartilage building block that promotes water retention and shock absorption in joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin work together to decrease pain sensation and improve resistance to additional joint tissue breakdown.
Why is glucosamine so important for dogs?
As your dog ages, their glucosamine production levels decline. Less glucosamine means less cartilage and fluids protecting their bones, which can often lead to inflammation and pain as their bones start to rub together.
Studies show glucosamine has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which don’t just benefit older dogs, but puppies and adults of every breed.
Here’s why dogs of every age should be eating glucosamine-rich food:
- Puppies: Glucosamine supports joint development while puppies are growing, so it’s important for them to get enough of it when they’re young, especially breeds that are predisposed to joint issues like hip dysplasia.
- Adults: Dogs love to sprint, play and jump – and while exercise is great for their health, years of running can take its toll on their joints. Glucosamine is key for preventative maintenance.
- Seniors: There’s nothing worse than seeing your dog in pain. Glucosamine helps to replace lost joint fluid, which keeps your dog’s joints stronger and more agile, and supports them to move comfortably through their senior years.
What is the best dog food for joint health?
Crab, lobster, and shrimp shells are packed with glucosamine. It’s also abundant in one of the world’s most sustainable seafoods – the New Zealand Green Mussel. That’s why you’ll find a minimum of 3% ethically sourced whole New Zealand Green - Lipped Mussels in all ZIWI Peak® air-dried and canned recipes.
Learn more about ZIWI Peak ingredients.
While good nutrition is key, if you think your dog is suffering from arthritis we recommend consulting your vet for further advice.
Sources:
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/5092/cc6f1d986d137f70f91c8c1f49448a89c6...
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15376510600910469?needAccess...
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15376510600910469?casa_toke....
https://ziwipets.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions?q=faq/what-are-new-zealand-green-mussels
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/6-natural-joint-supplements-for-dogs/
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/the-best-sources-of-glucosamine-fo...
