In the world of joint supplements, chondroitin sulfate is a common ingredient utilized in supplements to promote dog joint health. But is this ingredient really beneficial for Fido? 

Let’s back up a bit first. 

What is chondroitin sulfate?

Chondroitin sulfate is a building block of connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, bone, cartilage and skin (1). This means that chondroitin sulfate is a natural part of the dog’s body and these supportive structures. Chondroitin sulfate serves to provide cartilage with some of its important characteristic properties, like elasticity and resistance to pressure (1).

 Is chondroitin good for dogs?

As dogs age, the body slows down production of cartilage and its components, including chondroitin sulfate. You may notice that your older dog becomes stiffer, has a harder time getting up, and may not be as willing to run and play as much as they did when they were puppies, and this is why. 

Additionally, some dogs may be genetically predisposed to degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, which cause further damage to joints. Supplementing your dog with chondroitin sulfate can help provide the building blocks for cartilage production, and help prevent further damage and joint pain, so they can move easier and more comfortably. 

Is chondroitin sulfate safe for dogs?

 Most commonly, chondroitin sulfate is provided as an oral supplement, either in tablet form or as a soft chew, in combination with glucosamine. As an oral supplement, chondroitin sulfate has been shown to be bioavailable to dogs (3). Overall chondroitin for dogs has no side effects and is considered to be very safe (4).

So, does it work? 

According to veterinarians, clinical evidence supports the use of chondroitin sulfate in dogs (2).  Unfortunately, there haven’t been many good-quality research studies done regarding the use of chondroitin sulfate in dogs (4), likely due to the lack of consistency of forms and concentrations of chondroitin utilized in research. 

However, due to the safety and the extensive clinical evidence, chondroitin sulfate is considered a beneficial joint supplement for dogs.

RocketDog’s Canine Cush is veterinarian-formulated and provides a 100% natural and bioavailable source of chondroitin sulfate. 

In combination with glucosamine and hyaluronic acid, the chondroitin sulfate in Canine Cush can help promote dog joint health and improve your pet’s quality of life to ensure you can spend many years with them by your side. 

Read More:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3383492/
2. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chondroitin
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12214321/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5356289/