Can my dog take human glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplements?

No, there is no difference between the active ingredients of glucosamine and MSM in Dasuquin or human labeled products. However, there is very little regulation and oversight with any supplements - human or veterinary. This means that some manufacturers put too little or way too much of an active ingredient in a supplement, regardless of the label claims. Personally, I often recommend using the Nutramax products (manufacturer of Dasuquin) since I'm more comfortable with their testing than with many other brands on the market. I hope that helps to answer your question and that a joint supplement benefits Honeybear!

Studies generally conclude that the human version of arthritis supplements are not able to be absorbed by dogs. Instead look for a supplement for dogs. The two I recommend our Dasuquan and Duralactin. Starting him on an additional omega-3 fatty acid for dogs will also help with arthritis. Lastly there is a food made by Royal Canin called mobility support. It is excellent for arthritic dogs. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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.

There are many different recommended doses for glucosamine/chondroitin, but most veterinarians recommend between 15-30 mg/kg of the chondroitin component as a starting dose. This would be up to 327 mg, so you might want to give just one capsule per day. It should be fine to give with fish oil, although both supplements can potentially cause diarrhea so if you see any diarrhea you may want to ask your veterinarian about decreasing the dose or giving the supplements at different times.

Omega 3 fatty acids have been the only supplements actually proven to help with joint inflammation. Glucosamine and MSM don't have a ton of proof but are pretty benign and can be given any way. I personally like Dasaquin or Cosequin.

I'm so sorry that Mary has so many health problems. There is no problem giving glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM to a dog with liver and kidney problems. They are very safe products. I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

For treatment of growth problems it should be fed until at least 18months of age; in many cases a low dose is used long term to maintain cartilage health without any side effects on the liver or kidneys