Top Joint Care Treats for Dogs - What Every Dog Owner Should Know

April 29, 2025 | By Ashleigh Tosh

Some dogs will happily gulp down anything - tablets, powders, the odd sock - but for the rest of us, getting them to take a joint supplement (or indeed anything that isn't their usual dog food) can be a bit of a challenge, shall we say...

If you've tried hiding capsules in cheese or pretending powders are a "special topper", you'll know the struggle I'm talking about!

Luckily, there are joint care treats for dogs that taste good and genuinely support their joints if, of course, you know what to hunt for.

So, let's take a look at the science (and some smart shopping tips) to find the best joint care options for you and your dog.

Why Most Dog Joint Treats Aren't Good Enough

Walk down any pet care aisles in the supermarket and you'll see shelves stacked with "joint support" treats from brands like Forthglade and Wellness Core.

At first glance, they sound promising, boasting glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, all the things that are known to be good for your dog's joints.

But, quite often, there's a catch...

Most of them simply don't contain enough to make any real difference to your dog!

Research shows that dogs need around 15-30 mg of glucosamine per pound of body weight daily to actively support joint health, and when you're feeding a tiny treat with only a sprinkle of glucosamine, it's a bit like throwing a thimble of water at a bonfire.

How to Find High-Quality Joint Care Treats for Your Dog

If you're serious about protecting your dog's joints (especially for large and giant breeds or those prone to arthritis), you'll want to skip the supermarket specials and head to a proper pet specialist.

Stores like Just for Pets carry brands like Naturecan Pets, Blue Pet Co., which offer your dog:

• High doses of glucosamine and chondroitin for cartilage support
• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) to naturally reduce inflammation
• Premium omega-3s sourced from fish oil, which is great for joint flexibility and overall joint health

They do cost a bit more - but when it comes to joint supplements for dogs, you really do get what you pay for.

Top Tip: Look for clear labelling with exact milligrams (mg) of each active ingredient - just like your regular dog food, transparency is the best policy!

Natural Joint Support for Dogs

If high-end treats aren't in your budget (or if you just prefer a simpler, natural approach), nature has already provided some brilliant options for natural joint support:

• Fish Skins: Naturally rich in omega-3 oils that reduce inflammation and keep joints supple.
• Chicken Feet: Packed with natural glucosamine and chondroitin. Plus, they also help clean your dog's teeth while they chew!

We've also recently taken a deep dive into these brilliant alternatives (and others) in our article The Best Natural Dog Treats for Joint Health if you'd like to learn more...

Just make sure any fish skins or chicken feet you buy are air-dried and free from added salt, chemicals, preservatives etc.

How to Choose the Best Joint Supplements for Your Dog

Each and every dog is unique, and what works well for one pup may not work for another - just like dog food! So, when it comes to picking a joint care treat for dogs, it's a good idea to:

• Check dosage: Look for therapeutic levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3s.
• Buy smart: Specialist shops usually stock more effective options than supermarkets.
• Stay consistent: Supplements aren't a magic wand - daily use is key for long-term results and benefits.
• Think ahead: Supporting your dog's joints now can help prevent bigger issues as they age.

And, as always, monitor your dog for any changes in their stools or signs of digestive upset. If they seem to be struggling, it's probably best to take a break or try something different.

Now, what are your thoughts on joint treats? Has your dog tried a joint treat that made a difference? We'd love to hear your stories, so go on and post your tips or favourite finds below...

About the author

Ashleigh Tosh - Content Writer at All About Dog Food

Ashleigh's a professional writer with over a decade’s experience, including several years focused on human nutrition and the fitness industry. That extensive understanding of ingredients and health translated naturally into her passion for dog nutrition, sparked when her late Dogue De Bordeaux developed digestive issues. Now a Content Writer for All About Dog Food, she's delighted to help dog owners all over the UK make informed choices for their pups. She lives with Frank, her lively Rottweiler, and credits his energy and very shiny coat to a great diet, and plenty of play (he's a big fan of tug-o-war).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do joint care treats really work for dogs?

Yes - but only if they contain therapeutic levels of proven ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids. Many supermarket options fall short, so it's best to choose specialist products or natural alternatives like chicken feet and fish skins.

What’s better for dog joint support — treats, powders or tablets?

The best option is the one your dog will consistently eat. Tablets and powders often provide higher doses, but joint care treats are great if your dog is fussy. Just be sure they deliver enough active ingredients.

Are natural options like fish skins and chicken feet safe for all dogs?

Generally, yes, when they’re air-dried and additive-free. However, always supervise chewing, and check with your vet if your dog has dietary restrictions or dental issues.