Joint supplements for dogs vs anti-inflammatories: what to know

Joint supplements for dogs (also called chondroprotectors) contain functional ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin that help maintain healthy cartilage, flexibility and mobility over the medium and long term. Anti-inflammatories are something different: medicines that reduce inflammation and relieve pain, and that should always be prescribed by a vet.

Both play a role in caring for your dog's or cat's joints, but they are not the same thing and are not used in the same way. Here we answer the most common questions.

What are joint supplements for dogs and cats?

Joint supplements contain functional ingredients that help maintain healthy cartilage and joints. Compounds such as glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain joint flexibility and mobility, which is especially relevant in breeds prone to joint problems, such as those predisposed to hip dysplasia.

When should I give my dog a joint supplement?

Joint supplements are especially useful for:

• Older dogs.
• Dogs with a genetic predisposition to joint problems.
• Very active or large-breed dogs.
• Dogs that have had joint injuries.

They can also be introduced as preventive support in prone breeds. If you have a large dog, we explain when to start a joint supplement for large dogs.

How do I choose the right joint supplement for my dog?

The choice depends on breed, weight, age and your dog's general health, so ask your vet for a personalised recommendation. Complete formulas that combine several selected actives, such as omega-3, complement joint support. If you want to understand what omega-3 adds, read our guide to omega 3 for dogs: benefits and dosage.

Size also matters: the Maikai joint supplement for large and giant dogs and the Maikai joint supplement for small and medium dogs and cats both bring together an advanced formulation of functional ingredients for daily joint care. You can see the whole range in our joint care collection for dogs.

What is the difference between joint supplements and anti-inflammatories for dogs?

• Joint supplements: designed to support and maintain joint health in the medium and long term.
• Anti-inflammatories: medicines that reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

In some cases your vet may recommend both together for comprehensive joint care.

When should anti-inflammatories be used in dogs?

Anti-inflammatories for dogs are used for acute or chronic inflammation, such as arthritis, joint injuries or after surgery. They are medicines and should always be prescribed and supervised by a vet, as they can have side effects.

Do joint supplements and anti-inflammatories have side effects?

Anti-inflammatories, like any medicine, can cause side effects, which is why their use should always be monitored by a vet. Joint supplements are usually well tolerated, although some dogs may have mild digestive upset, changes in appetite or, rarely, allergic reactions. Keep an eye on your dog and tell your vet about any change.

Can joint supplements and anti-inflammatories be combined?

Yes. In many cases your vet may combine a joint supplement with an anti-inflammatory to care for your dog's mobility more completely. Always follow their advice and never give any medicine without their approval. Every dog is different: veterinary guidance is the best guarantee of good care.

If you are building a broader routine, our guide to choosing natural supplements for dogs will help you decide what each one is for. And to add daily joint support to their routine, see the Maikai joint supplement for small and medium dogs and cats.