If you have a dog with arthritis, elbow or hip dysplasia, or simply a dog who’s getting on a bit - you might be considering joint supplements to help ease their discomfort, stiffness, and decline in mobility.
There are many different joint supplements on the market, many of which include hyaluronic acid - so is it safe to give to your dog?
Yes! Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in a dog’s body and it plays a vital role for joint health by giving joint fluid its special properties. Hyaluronic acid is both safe for dogs and necessary for healthy joint function and comfort. As dogs age, their natural production of hyaluronic acid declines and inflammation, due to wear and tear, leads to increased breakdown of hyaluronic acid, this results in an overall decline in hyaluronic acid levels and can exacerbate conditions like arthritis in dogs.
Keep reading to learn more about how safe hyaluronic acid is for dogs and some of the potential benefits if you give the right kind!
Can dogs take hyaluronic acid?
Yes, you can supplement your dog’s declining hyaluronic acid levels using either oral supplements like Zooomy or with injectable hyaluronic acid via your vet.
It’s important to know that while hyaluronic acid is widely available in oral supplements, the type of hyaluronic acid matters greatly - they’re not all created equal!
Many of the studies on the efficacy of oral hyaluronic acid supplements for joint health in animals were conducted using purified, high-molecular weight HA (exactly the kind of HA used in Zooomy).
However, short chain hyaluronic acid is used more widely in pet supplements - but there is no evidence that it’s even absorbed by dogs and whether it delivers any benefits is questionable. You can read more about the difference between long chain and short chain hyaluronic acid here.
“In essence, bigger is better for health benefits from HA, and smaller fragments have very different or opposite properties than native, high molecular weight HA.”
How can hyaluronic acid help my dog?
Hyaluronic acid can assist a dog’s joint health and function, here are the most important ways it works:
Lubrication and Cushioning:
Reduced levels of hyaluronic acid in joint fluid can lead to more friction between a dog’s joint surfaces which can be both painful and contribute to further degeneration of the joints. Boosting the levels of a dog’s hyaluronic acid levels could provide better lubrication and cushioning which can soothe pain and stiffness.
Cartilage Care:
Cartilage is the smooth tissue that helps bone ends move past each other comfortably. Hyaluronic acid is an important part of the joint fluid that lubricates their movement, also helping to keep cartilage and surrounding tissues cushioned and hydrated. By supporting joint lubrication, hyaluronic acid supplements may help maintain flexibility, joint hydration and comfort as dogs age.
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
In addition to its lubricating properties, hyaluronic acid is also described as having anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing friction in the joints by improving the quality of joint fluid, it can help reduce inflammation within the joints, easing discomfort and improving mobility for dogs with arthritis. Long chain hyaluronic acid is also thought to bind to ‘toll-like’ receptors in the gut to modulate generalised inflammation.
Joint Support:
Hyaluronic acid plays an important role in keeping joints cushioned and lubricated. By supporting the body’s natural joint environment, hyaluronic acid supplements may help maintain mobility, ease stiffness, and promote long-term comfort in active and aging dogs.
How much oral hyaluronic acid do we recommend?
The amount of hyaluronic acid a dog needs will be influenced by their age, weight, and health. As a general guide, based on the weight of a dog we recommend:
- 1-10kg - 1ml (2ml daily total)
- 11-20kg - 2ml (4ml daily total)
- 21-30kg - 3ml (6ml daly total)
-
31-40kg - 4ml (8ml daily total)
However, if your dog is showing symptoms of stiffness or decreased mobility, they may benefit from an increased amount of hyaluronic acid.
You can read more about how much hyaluronic acid to give your dog here.
Signs a dog may need more hyaluronic acid
The signs a dog may need more hyaluronic acid are very similar to the signs a dog may have arthritis or joint pain:
- Slowing down, reluctance to walk or play
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Limping or favouring certain limbs
- Irritability or behaviour changes
- Licking, chewing, or biting paws or joints
- Difficulty with stairs or jumping
- Changes in posture or gait
- Lethargy or sleeping more
- Panting or restlessness
Did you know dogs with severe arthritis have up to 90% less hyaluronic acid in their joint fluid than normal dogs? (1) That’s exactly what a group of scientists found when studying arthritic dogs. But thankfully, a further study found that giving a high quality oral, long chain hyaluronic acid supplement like Zooomy can help replenish these dog’s lost HA (2).
How long does it take to notice joint support from hyaluronic acid in dogs?
Hyaluronic acid can take varying lengths of time to provide joint support. This will depend on the type of hyaluronic acid being administered and the method.
Typically, most owners that notice a change report oral long chain hyaluronic acid supplements like Zooomy to take up to 6 weeks before they notice a change.
Some Zooomy customers report a noticeable difference in as little as a week! But typically owners report seeing small changes at around the 3-6 week mark and notice continued changes as time goes on.
Read more about how long Zooomy takes to help here.
Are there any potential side effects of giving a dog hyaluronic acid?
Most dogs tolerate hyaluronic acid supplements very well, but approximately 1 in 500 may experience some digestive discomfort initially - such as gas or loose stools. This isn’t a sign of inflammation or upset, it’s what’s called a mechanical diarrhoea.
Hyaluronic acid attracts water, and if a dog’s gut bacteria isn’t digesting it properly, it can pass through and pull water with it.
The reaction is usually mild and not harmful. If this happens with your dog, it can be corrected by pausing supplementation so your dog’s gut can reset - then recommencing at a lower dose as their system builds tolerance.
Learn more about what to do if your dog experiences side effects here.
In Summary:
- Hyaluronic acid is safe for dogs. Most dogs tolerate it with no side effects, but around 1 in 500 may experience temporary digestive upset which is resolved by pausing supplementation.
- Dog’s natural levels of hyaluronic acid deplete with age and wear and tear - this can be supported by supplementing.
- Hyaluronic acid can be given to dogs either orally via supplements or via injectables at the vets.
- The type of hyaluronic acid matters - long chain hyaluronic acid is the ONLY type shown to be absorbed by dogs.
- The changes due to oral hyaluronic acid typically take approx. 6 weeks, although some dogs respond more quickly.
Try Zooomy long chain hyaluronic acid for your dog
Our unique long chain hyaluronic acid supplement comes in a liquid form which is virtually tasteless. It’s also free from sugar, protein, and fat - making it safe to give alongside other medications and to dogs with sensitive tummies or allergies.
Place an order for Zooomy hyaluronic acid supplements today
At Zooomy, we offer a liquid oral supplement designed to support canine joint health and mobility. Our supplement uses long-chain hyaluronic acid to promote strong cartilage and flexibility in dogs. Learn more about our product by contacting the Zooomy team, or place an order online today.
FAQs
Can I give my dog human-grade hyaluronic acid supplements?
While the hyaluronic acid given to humans and dogs may be the same source, we would advise sticking with supplements formulated for dogs to ensure there are no additives or ingredients that would be harmful. This will also ensure you’re giving the appropriate dose and not overloading your dog’s digestive system.
Is hyaluronic acid safe for senior or aging dogs?
Yes, in fact it’s in this stage of life that dogs most need a hyaluronic acid supplement. As a dog ages, they naturally produce less hyaluronic acid which is why supplementation can be so beneficial.
What should I look for in a safe hyaluronic acid supplement for dogs?
Look at the ingredients to ascertain what exactly is inside the hyaluronic acid supplement you’re considering. Remember, you want long chain HA if it’s to be of any benefit to your dog. If your dog has health conditions, allergies or is on any medication, be sure to check that all ingredients are suitable for your dog. If in doubt, consult with your vet.