Joint supplements are widely used in dogs with osteoarthritis, but the evidence base varies significantly. Understanding what works guides welfare-positive choices for managing canine mobility.
The supplement industry targets dog owners' desire to support their pets' mobility, often making efficacy claims exceeding the evidence. The welfare concern is twofold: supplements that provide false reassurance may delay appropriate veterinary pain management; and money spent on poorly evidenced supplements is unavailable for treatments with genuine evidence. Omega-3 fatty acids at appropriate doses (EPA+DHA 40-100mg/kg EPA equivalent) have reasonable evidence and low risk. The primary welfare priority for dogs with OA is adequate pain control through veterinary assessment and appropriate analgesia, combined with weight management. Supplements should be adjuncts to, not replacements for, evidence-based care.