5 Powerful Benefits of Giving Your Dog Glucosamine, MSM & Chondroitin, Backed by Science

5 Powerful Benefits of Giving Your Dog Glucosamine, MSM & Chondroitin, Backed by Science

Joint issues in dogs, whether caused by age or activity, can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced quality of life. Fortunately, there’s a proven trio of ingredients that can help: glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin. These three compounds work together to protect, repair, and strengthen your dog’s joints, naturally.

At Champ’s Armor, we include all three in our Advanced Hip & Joint Support chews to help your pup move like a champ. Let’s explore five key benefits of this powerful combo, backed by science and trusted by vets.

1. Rebuilds and Maintains Healthy Cartilage

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that helps maintain the structure and integrity of cartilage—the cushioning between your dog’s joints.

  • As dogs age or engage in intense physical activity, cartilage begins to wear down.
  • Supplementing glucosamine provides the building blocks needed to repair cartilage and slow its breakdown.

Study: Research published in Veterinary Therapeutics found that dogs given glucosamine and chondroitin showed improved comfort and mobility compared to placebo-treated dogs【1】.

2. Reduces Inflammation and Joint Pain

MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is a sulfur-rich compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce swelling, stiffness, and discomfort in joints and muscles.

  • MSM can also improve cellular function and support collagen synthesis—making it a vital partner to glucosamine and chondroitin.
  • It may also help enhance mobility after exercise or injury.

Study: A 2006 study in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage showed MSM significantly reduced joint pain and swelling in humans, with growing support for similar use in veterinary care【2】.

3. Slows Progression of Joint Degeneration

Chondroitin sulfate works by blocking destructive enzymes that break down cartilage in your dog’s joints. It also helps retain moisture in cartilage, improving shock absorption and flexibility.

Together with glucosamine, chondroitin has been shown to:

  • Protect existing cartilage
  • Delay the onset of arthritis
  • Enhance joint function over time

Study: A long-term study published in American Journal of Veterinary Research found chondroitin and glucosamine slowed osteoarthritis progression in dogs when administered early【3】.

4. Improves Mobility and Activity Levels

The combination of glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin helps dogs:

  • Walk, run, and jump with less pain
  • Recover more quickly from exercise
  • Maintain a higher quality of life as they age

Even dogs with no current joint issues can benefit preventatively, especially larger breeds or highly active pups.

Many pet parents report noticeable improvements in movement, enthusiasm, and mood after 4–6 weeks of consistent supplementation.

5. Natural Support with Minimal Side Effects

Unlike pain medications, which can come with side effects, glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin are safe, naturally-derived compounds that support long-term joint health without harsh chemicals.

  • They work from the inside out, targeting the underlying causes of joint problems, not just the symptoms.
  • Best of all, they can be used alongside other treatments or as daily maintenance support.

Champ’s Armor: Advanced Hip & Joint Support That Works

At Champ’s Armor, we’ve combined glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin into one delicious daily chew, along with other proven ingredients formulated to provide support to your pet’s joints.

Our formula also includes:

  • Green-Lipped Mussel – Omega-rich ingredients to lubricate joints and fight inflammation
  • Collagen Type II and Hyaluronic Acid –  Help rebuild and maintain healthy joint cartilage, slow joint degeneration. and enhances joint lubrication
  • Boswellia Extract and Yucca Extract – Help reduce joint inflammation, relieve stiffness, and ease discomfort
  • Vitamins C & E – Support collagen production and joint integrity

It’s everything your dog needs to run, jump, and strut like a champ.

Final Thoughts

Whether your dog is a playful puppy, a weekend warrior, or a gentle senior, glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin can make a meaningful difference in their joint health and comfort.

By choosing a high-quality hip & joint supplement like Champ’s Armor, you’re giving your dog the tools to live a happier and more active life.

References:

  1. McCarthy G, et al. (2007). Veterinary Therapeutics.
  2. Kim LS, et al. (2006). Osteoarthritis and Cartilage.
  3. Hanson RR, et al. (1997). Am J Vet Res.
Back to blog