My dog became aggressive on Cosequin for joints. Is this normal?

Poor Walter. In some cases you are correct, the opposite effect is achieved and the pet becomes what we called paradoxically aggressive. This is not considered a normal side effect that will go away, but instead an adverse effect which has to do with how the pet metaboilzes the drug altogether. I would recommend discussing with your vet to stop the medication and try an alternative aggression medication at this time. If he has inter-pet aggression, then I would consider trying Clomicalm or Prozac (Fluoxetine) as an alternative. Also don't forget that you have more success controlling behavioral issues with pets when you do both medical therapy + behavioral modification training with an animal behaviorist. https://iaabc.org/consultants Best of luck with Walter and I hope you can get his behavioral issues resolved soon.

Many pets are on Cosequin long term to help support their joints, and most of them do well on it. See the link below for more information on potential side effects https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951424 You can speak to your vet about what supplement(s) are appropriate for Oscar's particular condition and how long he should be on them.

Cosequin is a joint supplement and while it can help alleviate some of the symptoms of arthritis it is not the same as Rimadyl, a non -steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. You could talk to your vet about starting Cosequin, it’s possible that Manski might need Rimadyl less frequently if it helps. There are also some generic options that might be a little more affordable.

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. The development of aggression as a dog gets older is not something I would consider to be normal. This behavioral change could be due to canine cognitive dysfunction (think of this as doggy dementia) or potentially something more neurological (brain tumor or degenerative change to the brain). I would recommend having Buddy examined by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. There may be something systemic going on so having his blood tested would be a good idea. There are drugs that you can use for doggy dementia such as Selegiline. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

I worry that the secondary ingredients in the Osteo Bi-flex may cause some issues, however without knowing which of the Bi-flex products you're using, it would be hard to determine this. Most dogs do just fine on Cosequin only (at the right dose for their size) and there are multiple products on the market if you feel Kopy needs more than just glucosamine. I would follow your vet's recommendation for what products to use as they know your dog and any other health issues/medications she's on best. As for the increased thirst, it would be hard to say if it is related to this medication, or another underlying issue, especially since Kopy is a senior pup. A blood panel to rule out any issues, as well as additional tests as needed (thyroid, cushings, etc) is always a good idea with new or changing symptoms.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Cainan. I recommend continuing his medication as prescribed by his veterinarian. If he has an immune problem, he likely needs the steroids. You do need to discuss his behavior with his veterinarian as soon as possible though. In the meantime, do not take him to dog parks or around other dogs. If he becomes aggressive towards your family, I would seek veterinary care for him over the weekend. I hope this information helps!

Dasuquin with MSM and Cosequin DS Plus MSM (both by Nutramax Labs) are excellent products. I prefer these because it is the same company that makes the human product, Cosamin, and one of the few companies that submits its products for outside testing to verify ingredients. The GlycoFlex line of products would also be one to consider. These are my own personal recommendations.