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When should my German Shepherd start joint supplements or joint food?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 55 lbs

At what age can I start giving my dog glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for her hips and joints? Since she is a German shepherd and the breed is predisposed to hip and joint issues? Or would feeding a food with glucosamine and chindroitin in it help to postpone the supplements for later on?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

Published on August 24th, 2017

Hello and thank you for choosing Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Since glucosamine and chondroitin fall under the category of medications we refer to as nutraceuticals (fancy word for supplements) there is no specific age that is recommended.

Generally, we start recommend using these types of medications when pets reach the senior stage (7+ years of age). Since Bella is still young, I would recommend feeding a quality food that is formulated specifically for large breed dogs as it will include all of the beneficial joint health additives. I am personally a fan of Purina foods, but any of the other brands (Hills, Royal Canin, etc) are all excellent foods. This way you don't have to worry about trying to remember giving Bella pills everyday and nothing in her routine has to change. The supplements may be needed further down the road.

Hope this helps a bit. Best of luck to you and Bella!

9Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 28th, 2017
Congratulations on your new addition! Most dogs that develop arthritis do so at around middle age and later, so around 5-8 years old. However, it depends on a large number of factors including weight, genetics, activity (more is typically better), with diet playing a small part. If you want to start Reef on a joint supplement, it definitely is not a bad idea. I recommend using one formulated specially for dogs, which can be found in pet stores. I typically recommend the Nutramx brand of supplements, but there are plenty of great ones out there. The key is to choose a supplement that you can give consistently, as these may tend to get a little expensive for a large dog. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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