The same glucosamine used for joint repair in humans also works for dogs. However, most bottles are not labeled for pet use. This leads many pet owners to question how much glucosamine for dogs is best. The actual dosage depends on several factors. Some of the more important to consider are the weight of the pet, severity of problem, age and breed. Many dogs suffer from arthritis. Some estimates say that as many as thirty percent of all dogs suffer from the condition. With this disease, the body no longer creates natural glucosamine. The substance is a requirement for healthy cartilage and connective tissue. The supplemental glucosamine helps to regenerate damaged joints while also reducing inflammation.
When an older animal develops arthritis it will have trouble getting up and will move much more slowly. Previously friendly pets will not like to be touched or handled because those actions can cause them pain. When your dog begins to show these symptoms, you should begin a course of treatment immediately. The dosage is usually calculated based upon the dog's weight and the method of administration. Sulfate and hydrochloride are generally the best forms of the compound for canines, so dosage information is based on their use. It is good to start out with 20 mg per pound per day. A pet weighing 50 pounds should receive a dosage of 1000 mg.
Many veterinarians believe that an increased dosage during the early stages will enhance the restorative process, kicking it into high gear. Some suggest doubling the dosage in the beginning for at least two weeks, then cutting back to a regular dosage. Unfortunately, this can have side effects that include vomiting and diarrhea. But the same symptoms may be caused by even a mild dose for the first few days. The best solution would be to administer the increased dosage and if the symptoms do not disappear within four or five days, then reduce the dosage. Your dog's body will take at least three or four days to make the adjustment, so waiting four or five days should give a good indication how well your pet is tolerating the medication.
Generally, large and medium breeds of dogs are more susceptible to arthritis, especially Kelpies, Collies, German Shepherds, Rottweiler, Retrievers, and Labradors. Among the small breeds, Pekingese and the Miniature Dachshund can have a history of osteoarthritis. If you have these breeds then it is advisable to start giving glucosamine supplement when they are about middle age in dog years. The recommended dosage is 500 to 750 mg per day for a 50-pound dog.
The chances of your dog developing arthritis also increases when it meets with an accident, and hence it is better to administer this supplement when you dog is convalescing from the injuries. In such condition, a curative dosage is preferable for a couple of weeks, and then the dosage can be lowered to 750 mg for the rest of the dog's life.
While the above information is designed only as a guide, it should give owners a general idea of how much glucosamine for dogs is needed under different circumstances. Additionally, the pet should receive proper nutrition and exercise to maintain its optimal weight.
When an older animal develops arthritis it will have trouble getting up and will move much more slowly. Previously friendly pets will not like to be touched or handled because those actions can cause them pain. When your dog begins to show these symptoms, you should begin a course of treatment immediately. The dosage is usually calculated based upon the dog's weight and the method of administration. Sulfate and hydrochloride are generally the best forms of the compound for canines, so dosage information is based on their use. It is good to start out with 20 mg per pound per day. A pet weighing 50 pounds should receive a dosage of 1000 mg.
Many veterinarians believe that an increased dosage during the early stages will enhance the restorative process, kicking it into high gear. Some suggest doubling the dosage in the beginning for at least two weeks, then cutting back to a regular dosage. Unfortunately, this can have side effects that include vomiting and diarrhea. But the same symptoms may be caused by even a mild dose for the first few days. The best solution would be to administer the increased dosage and if the symptoms do not disappear within four or five days, then reduce the dosage. Your dog's body will take at least three or four days to make the adjustment, so waiting four or five days should give a good indication how well your pet is tolerating the medication.
Generally, large and medium breeds of dogs are more susceptible to arthritis, especially Kelpies, Collies, German Shepherds, Rottweiler, Retrievers, and Labradors. Among the small breeds, Pekingese and the Miniature Dachshund can have a history of osteoarthritis. If you have these breeds then it is advisable to start giving glucosamine supplement when they are about middle age in dog years. The recommended dosage is 500 to 750 mg per day for a 50-pound dog.
The chances of your dog developing arthritis also increases when it meets with an accident, and hence it is better to administer this supplement when you dog is convalescing from the injuries. In such condition, a curative dosage is preferable for a couple of weeks, and then the dosage can be lowered to 750 mg for the rest of the dog's life.
While the above information is designed only as a guide, it should give owners a general idea of how much glucosamine for dogs is needed under different circumstances. Additionally, the pet should receive proper nutrition and exercise to maintain its optimal weight.
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