How long can I give my dog MSM joint supplements? Are they safe?

It depends on what you are trying to treat but ultimately, it is best to continue them for the life of the pet. If you would like to post again with more information we may be able to help you better.

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.

Hi there! Great question! I usually use 30 mg/kg/day or as close as I can get with the various capsule sizes. I would need their weights to give you an exact dose however you can figure it out easily with a simple calculation. For example: If Lilly weighs 40 pounds: 40 pounds/2.2 = 18.18kg 18.18kg x 30mg/kg = 545mg So, Lilly would need somewhere around 550mg per day. MSM isn't considered "toxic" but larger doses than can be absorbed can cause loose stools. If taken concomitantly with proven blood thinners (ie: aspirin therapy, heparin) there may be an accelerated blood thinning effect. Individuals with kidney problems or recurrent kidney stones should not take MSM. I hope this helps. Best wishes to you!

Yes, as far as we know these supplements are the same. You can use human branded forms of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and fish oils for dogs. These supplements are all very safe. Ensure you are using the dose recommended by your vet for maximum efficacy. I hope that helps and Sail gets better soon.

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.

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.

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.