Evidence-based review of joint supplements for dogs with arthritis and what the science supports.
Joint supplement use in arthritic dogs reflects the challenge of evidence-based medicine in companion animal care: the supplements are widely used, often perceived as beneficial, and have variable scientific support. The welfare stakes are high — undertreated arthritis causes ongoing chronic pain, while ineffective supplements give owners false assurance that their dog's pain is managed. The most welfare-positive approach combines honest veterinary assessment using pain scoring tools with evidence-based supplement selection, recognition of placebo effects on owner perception, and willingness to add prescription medication when supplements are insufficient. Dogs with well-managed arthritis through evidence-based multimodal approaches have significantly better quality of life than those managed with supplements alone.