The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy’s professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.
I’m Dr. Candy Akers, a holistic veterinarian who works with dogs every day to help them stay mobile, comfortable, and active well into their senior years. One of the most common concerns I hear from pet parents is, “My dog is slowing down. Could it be arthritis?”
Joint stiffness and arthritis are incredibly common as dogs age, but the good news is we can support those joints naturally. One of my go-to options in many cases is Glucosamine Synergy® by Standard Process.
Let’s go over how it works, what makes it special, and how I recommend using it safely at home.
What Is Glucosamine Synergy® for Dogs?
Glucosamine Synergy® is a whole-food-based supplement created by Standard Process, a trusted company that’s been formulating natural veterinary products since 1929.
It combines glucosamine, Boswellia serrata, and manganese—three powerful nutrients that work together to:
- Support cartilage repair and joint flexibility
- Reduce inflammation and stiffness
- Promote overall comfort and mobility
This supplement is most often used for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or age-related stiffness, but it can also be helpful for active dogs, working breeds, or pets recovering from orthopedic surgery.
Why Glucosamine Matters
Glucosamine is a compound naturally found in healthy cartilage—the cushioning material that protects joints. As dogs get older, their bodies produce less glucosamine. That loss contributes to joint wear, pain, and reduced movement.
Adding a glucosamine supplement helps replace what’s missing and gives the body the raw materials to:
- Rebuild worn cartilage
- Support smoother joint movement
- Decrease inflammation that leads to pain
Key Ingredients and How They Work
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s inside each capsule of Glucosamine Synergy® and how it supports your dog’s body:
Glucosamine
- A building block of healthy cartilage and joint fluid.
- Helps cushion the joints and supports natural repair.
- Especially helpful for dogs with osteoarthritis or past injuries.
Boswellia serrata (Indian Frankincense)
- A herbal extract known for strong anti-inflammatory properties.
- Helps reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints.
- Safe for long-term use in most dogs.
Manganese
- A trace mineral that helps the body form cartilage and connective tissue.
- Enhances absorption and effectiveness of glucosamine.
- Supports strong bones and ligaments.
Together, these ingredients take a holistic approach—supporting both structure (cartilage, bones, ligaments) and comfort (reduced inflammation and stiffness).
Conditions That Benefit from Glucosamine Synergy®
I often recommend this supplement in my online holistic consultations for dogs dealing with:
- Arthritis or osteoarthritis – Reduces pain and swelling, improves comfort.
- Joint stiffness or hip dysplasia – Supports flexibility and smoother movement.
- Post-surgery recovery – Encourages tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
- Active or athletic dogs – Protects joints from long-term wear and tear.
Many pet parents notice their dogs move more freely, climb stairs more easily, and even regain interest in playtime within a few weeks of consistent use.
How to Give Glucosamine Synergy®
The supplement comes in capsule form. You can give it whole, hide it in a treat, or open it and mix the powder into food.
Typical daily dosage:
- Small dogs (1–20 lbs): 1 capsule twice daily
- Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): 1½ capsules twice daily
- Large dogs (51+ lbs): 2 capsules twice daily
Tip: Start with once daily for a few days if your dog has a sensitive stomach, then increase to the full amount.
Pairing this supplement with balanced nutrition, gentle exercise, and (for some pets) cold laser therapy can make a big difference in comfort and recovery.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Glucosamine Synergy® is usually very well tolerated. Occasionally, dogs may experience mild stomach upset such as soft stool or vomiting, especially when first starting.
To reduce the chance of that happening:
- Give the supplement with food.
- Introduce it slowly over several days.
If symptoms continue or if your dog has allergies, diabetes, or is on medication (especially blood thinners), check with your veterinarian before continuing.
My Holistic Approach to Joint Support
In my practice and online consultations, I take a multimodal approach to joint care. That means combining nutrition, supplements, movement, and sometimes therapies like cold laser (photobiomodulation) to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue healing.
Glucosamine Synergy® fits beautifully into that plan because it supports both joint structure and comfort—naturally, without harsh medications.
If you’d like personalized help choosing the right joint support plan for your dog, you can book an online holistic consult with me at Journeys Holistic Life. I’ll review your pet’s history and send you a detailed video and PDF plan tailored to their needs.
Final Thoughts
Joint health is one of the biggest factors in your dog’s happiness as they age. With consistent support from Glucosamine Synergy®, plus a healthy diet and regular activity, your dog can stay mobile and pain-free for years to come.
If you’re noticing stiffness, limping, or slower movement, don’t wait until it worsens—small, natural changes can make a world of difference.
You can learn more or order directly through Journeys Holistic Life by clicking the link below.
Frequently Asked Questions
It helps maintain joint cartilage, reduces inflammation, and supports easier movement. Over time, it can help dogs with arthritis or stiffness feel more comfortable and mobile.
Most dogs show improvement in 3–4 weeks. Some may respond sooner depending on diet, exercise, and severity of arthritis.
Usually yes, but always check with your vet—especially if your dog takes prescription anti-inflammatory medications or has diabetes.
Yes. Glucosamine, Boswellia, and manganese are natural compounds that can safely be used for ongoing support.
You can get this supplement directly from me through Journeys Holistic Life, where I only carry authentic Standard Process products used in my own veterinary practice.
