Your dog will think they're getting a special treat, when you're actually giving them many more happy years together—pain free
You might think joint chews for dogs are only necessary when your furry friend shows signs of slowing down. But joint chews are not just for seniors—active dogs, large breeds, or even one-year-old pups can benefit from the extra support chews provide. Ultimately, the best time is now. The Veterinary Naturals Hemp & Hips Chews pack a punch with ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids—all known for promoting cartilage health and easing discomfort. We voted this brand best overall out of eight popular joint chews for dogs.
I have three dogs. And all of them are over the age of 10. One is nearly 17. My secret? Joint chews that contain three important ingredients: glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. These ingredients promote cartilage repair, reduce inflammation, and improve flexibility and mobility. Many dog owners only recognize the benefits of joint chews when their pets are already experiencing pain and discomfort. That’s why our best overall pick is the Veterinary Naturals Beef & Bacon Chews, specifically formulated for senior large breeds. Is your dog younger? The brand also has joint chews for dogs of all ages—from one-year-old pups to five-year-old mature dogs that are not yet seniors. Let’s take a closer look at the chews and how they can keep your dog active and healthy, no matter their age.
The best news? The chews are formulated by veterinarians and made in the USA with 100% natural ingredients. They combine glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and relieve stiffness. They also contain Devil’s claw root extract, collagen, vitamin E, and turmeric to maintain the elasticity of skin, muscles, and tendons, supporting overall mobility. Furthermore, they’re packed with a good balance of omega 6, omega 3, and antioxidants. By incorporating these chews into your dog’s routine now, you can help preserve their youth and keep them active for years to come.
For pure joint support, the Finn Hip & Joint Supplement might have a slight edge, thanks to its combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and green-lipped mussel, which is effective for improving mobility and relieving discomfort caused by arthritis. I know what you’re thinking: Why did it not take the no. 1 spot? The Veterinary Naturals goes above and beyond by including collagen, hemp oil (for added calming), and its availability in two flavors. It’s the ultimate all-rounder. Meanwhile, the runner-up includes turmeric (boosted with BioPerine), which is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can help reduce joint pain.
So, while the runner-up is more focused on only joint relief, the best overall offers joint support plus calming ingredients, which can benefit senior dogs or those who need extra relaxation alongside joint care. Price-wise, the best overall and runner-up are on par.
For dog owners looking beyond just joint support, FreshCap Mushrooms Immunity Bites bring something new to the table. Unlike traditional joint chews, this pick is packed with organic mushroom extracts (no fillers here). Instead of just focusing on joints, these chews aim to support everything from immune function to cognitive health.
With a combination of seven organic mushrooms like turkey tail and lion’s mane, plus extras like turmeric, kelp, and omega fatty acids, the chews are designed to boost your dog’s overall health. Whether you’re focused on immunity, anti-inflammatory support, or brain health, this formula promises to cover many bases. It’s a fantastic supplement for anyone looking to tap into the power of mushrooms—especially if your dog is sensitive to typical joint chew ingredients or needs more comprehensive support.
The Zesty Paws Mobility Squares may not take the top spot, but they certainly pack a punch ingredient-wise with joint support for your pup. Packed with glucosamine, chondroitin, and OptiMSM, they provide key joint health benefits—helping to keep your dog active and pain-free. What really sets these chews apart is the addition of green-lipped mussel (a natural source of joint-nourishing compounds not found in all supplements).
Moreover, the squares are designed to support mobility, lubricate joints, and even promote muscle function, making them popular joint chews for dogs of all ages. In my opinion, dogs love the smoked chicken flavor the most!
With the next pick, you have options. You can get the VetIQ Hip & Joint Chews in Standard Strength or Advanced Strength, making it easy to tailor the joint support to your dog’s needs. So, whether you’re looking for a daily dose of joint care for a younger pup or something stronger for seniors with stiff, sore joints, these joint chews for dogs have you covered.
Packed with glucosamine, MSM, and krill, the chicken-flavored chews offer support for cartilage and connective tissue while keeping joints flexible. Plus, with 180 soft chews per pack, they last a while, and dogs, of course, love the taste (no coaxing required). While the chews don’t contain green-lipped mussel, the inclusion of omega-3s and antioxidants give your dog a solid foundation for joint health at an affordable price.
How does your dog feel about pork? You can get the PetLab Co. Joint Chews in pork or salmon, and choose between a single pack or a value 2-pack. What sets these apart? Well, for starters, it’s the high levels of glucosamine combined with green-lipped mussels and omega 3. That’s a potent combo for mobility support, but it’s the porky flavor that really wins dogs over with this brand, especially if they’re picky eaters.
Compared to the best overall and runner-up, these chews may not have hemp or BioPerine, but if you’re looking for a tasty chew that your dog will love, this is a reputable brand. Most noteworthy, with over 3 million dogs already enjoying these chews, they’ve got a pretty strong fan base!
Circling back to Zesty Paws, here we have their Senior Hip & Joint Bites. How does it differ from the chews we’ve already discussed? These advanced-strength chews are specifically designed for senior dogs, packed with extra support for aging joints. While the previous Zesty Paws chews focused on general mobility, this formula steps it up with a blend of glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, and OptiMSM for more targeted relief for older dogs struggling with stiffness and discomfort.
What really sets this one apart is the added Qmin+ curcumin and BioPerine, which boost absorption and help combat inflammation more effectively—something your senior pup will definitely appreciate. So, if your dog is feeling the effects of age, this chew offers a little extra to keep them feeling lively and comfortable.
Wrapping up our list is PetNC Natural Care Hip & Joint Chews. Don’t let its position fool you—this liver-flavored joint chew packs in all the essentials at a fantastic price. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with vet-formulated ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and hyaluronic acid, this one’s a solid contender.
Flavor-wise, dogs love liver—so even your pickiest eater won’t put up a fuss when it’s time for their daily liver-flavored chew. Plus, with a formula that also includes vitamin C and manganese for bone health, you’re getting more than just joint support here. What I’d suggest? Pick chews from different brands so that you have a variety of flavors. That way, your dog never gets bored flavor-wise.
| Time | Small Breed (e.g., Chihuahua) | Medium Breed (e.g., Beagle) | Large Breed (e.g., Labrador Retriever) |
| Morning (7-8 AM) | 1/2 cup dry dog food + Veterinary Naturals Beef & Bacon Chews | 1 cup dry dog food + Veterinary Naturals Beef & Bacon Chews | 1.5 cups dry dog food + Veterinary Naturals Beef & Bacon Chews |
| Morning Snack (10-11 AM) | 1 small treat + fresh water | 1 medium treat + fresh water | 1-2 large treats + fresh water |
| Afternoon (12-1 PM) | 1/2 cup wet dog food | 1 cup wet dog food | 1.5-2 cups wet dog food |
| Afternoon Snack (3-4 PM) | Small snack (like carrots or apple slices) | Medium snack (like carrots, apple slices, or dog biscuits) | Large snack (like a bully stick or apple slices) |
| Evening (6-7 PM) | 1/2 cup dry dog food | 1 cup dry dog food | 2 cups dry dog food |
| Evening Treat (8-9 PM) | Small chew or dental stick | Medium chew or dental stick | Large chew or dental stick |
Glucosamine is a must-have in joint chews for dogs. It’s probably one of the most well-known ingredients for joint supplements for both humans and pets, and for good reason.
Glucosamine is an amino sugar that occurs naturally in your dog’s body and helps maintain the health of cartilage—the soft tissue that cushions joints. Over time, as dogs age or if they’re highly active, their bodies produce less glucosamine, which can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and even arthritis.
By supplementing with glucosamine, you’re helping your dog maintain their joint cartilage, keeping them active and mobile for longer. Most good-quality joint chews for dogs will contain glucosamine sulfate or hydrochloride, with 500 mg or more being a good benchmark per chew.
Next up, we have chondroitin, which works with glucosamine. While glucosamine helps build and maintain cartilage, chondroitin helps prevent the cartilage from breaking down. It’s like the defense mechanism in the joint chews for dogs. Together, glucosamine and chondroitin make a powerhouse duo for dogs dealing with arthritis or joint wear and tear.
Moreover, chondroitin also helps with joint lubrication, making movement smoother and less painful.
MSM is another standout ingredient I always look for in joint chews for dogs. It’s a natural sulfur compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. For dogs with joint pain or arthritis, inflammation is a big part of the problem, and MSM helps reduce this.
What’s great about MSM is that it not only works to reduce inflammation but also helps rebuild connective tissue. This makes it particularly useful for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries. I’ve noticed that joint chews for dogs containing MSM tend to provide quicker relief for dogs experiencing joint pain, making it a must-have for any senior dog or a dog with mobility issues.
Omega-3 fatty acids are an ingredient I’m seeing more often in joint chews for dogs. These fatty acids, usually derived from fish oil, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and overall health benefits.
In the context of joint health, omega-3s help reduce inflammation in the joints, making it easier for your dog to move around without discomfort. Plus, they support healthy skin and a shiny coat, which is always a bonus.
So, if you’re dealing with an older dog or one with arthritis, omega-3s can provide extra relief and keep them comfortable.
This might sound like a trendy superfood, but turmeric is actually one of my favorite ingredients for joint chews for dogs. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory that’s been used for centuries in human medicine, and it works wonders for dogs too.
Moreover, turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that actively reduces inflammation in the joints. The key is to look for chews that include BioPerine or black pepper extract, which helps increase the absorption of turmeric in your dog’s system. I’ve found that joint chews for dogs with turmeric can make a noticeable difference, especially for dogs experiencing chronic pain or inflammation.
One of the more unique ingredients in joint chews for dogs is green-lipped mussel. This powerhouse ingredient is rich in omega-3s, chondroitin, and other nutrients that reduce inflammation and support joint health.
What makes green-lipped mussel stand out is that it’s been shown to reduce pain and stiffness in dogs with arthritis, helping them stay mobile and active. Whenever I see this ingredient in a joint chew, I know it’s a more comprehensive formula, particularly beneficial for large breeds or active dogs that need extra joint support.
This ingredient works by lubricating the joints, ensuring that the movements are smooth and pain-free. Hyaluronic acid increases the viscosity of the synovial fluid around the joints, making it easier for your dog to move around without friction. This is particularly helpful for dogs with arthritis or joint injuries.
These antioxidants play an important role in joint health. Vitamin C helps with collagen production, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of cartilage. Vitamin E, on the other hand, helps fight off free radicals that cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
These vitamins may not be the stars of the show like glucosamine or MSM, but they are the supportive players that help protect your dog’s joints in the long run.
Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are your core trio for maintaining and rebuilding joint health, while ingredients like turmeric, omega-3s, and green-lipped mussel provide that extra anti-inflammatory boost.
If you’re considering more comprehensive joint chews for dogs like Finn Hip & Joint (the runner-up), you’ll notice it includes turmeric and green-lipped mussel, which are fantastic for dogs that need that additional inflammation control. On the other hand, the Veterinary Naturals Hemp & Hips (best overall) focuses on providing balanced joint support with hemp oil and other essential nutrients at an affordable price.
Dogs love the little things—like a new squeaky toy, a nice chicken treat, or some quality time with you. Investing in a pet camera can also give you peace of mind when you're away, letting you toss treats and talk to your dog remotely. And of course, keeping your pup healthy with the best overall joint chew, Veterinary Naturals Hemp & Hips, can help keep them comfortable and pain-free for more happy moments.
It’s a good idea to start joint chews early, especially if you have an active or large-breed dog. Even young dogs benefit from the preventative effects of glucosamine and chondroitin, like those found in Finn Hip & Joint. You don’t need to wait until your dog shows signs of discomfort—start now to keep them moving well into their senior years.
You may start to notice improvements in your dog’s mobility within 4-6 weeks of consistent use. However, it can vary depending on the severity of their joint issues. For quicker results, try high-quality options like Veterinary Naturals Hemp & Hips or Finn Hip & Joint, which have potent formulations designed to promote joint health and ease discomfort.
No, joint chews for dogs are specifically formulated for dogs and may contain ingredients or dosages that aren’t safe for cats or other animals.
The Veterinary Naturals chews include hemp and omega-3 fatty acids for added joint and overall health support, while the Finn Hip & Joint chews focus more on turmeric and green-lipped mussel for anti-inflammatory benefits. Both are excellent, but their unique ingredients target slightly different needs.
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