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.
As a holistic veterinarian, I work with many dogs who struggle with sore joints, muscle weakness, or slow recovery after injury. One supplement that consistently delivers excellent results is Ligaplex® I by Standard Process.
This whole-food formula helps strengthen connective tissue, support recovery after strain, and maintain flexibility as dogs age. Whether your dog is young and active or a senior needing extra support, Ligaplex I can help their body move comfortably and naturally.
What is Ligaplex® I by Standard Process?
Ligaplex I is a whole-food supplement made to nourish your dog’s ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Standard Process has been creating high-quality nutritional formulas since 1929 using minimally processed, farm-grown ingredients.
In my practice, I often recommend Ligaplex I for dogs recovering from injury, active working dogs, and seniors who are slowing down. It fills nutritional gaps that modern diets can leave behind and supports the body’s natural healing systems.
Key Benefits of Ligaplex® I for Dogs
Here’s what makes Ligaplex I so valuable for maintaining musculoskeletal health:
- Joint comfort and flexibility: Supports smooth joint movement by strengthening connective tissue and promoting healthy cartilage.
- Muscle strength and endurance: Helps maintain proper muscle tone and repair after activity or strain.
- Healthy recovery: Encourages tissue healing following injury, surgery, or overuse.
- Whole-body vitality: The blend of vitamins, minerals, and organ-based nutrients supports immune, nerve, and metabolic health.
- Natural formulation: Made from whole-food ingredients with no synthetic additives or harsh chemicals.
I’ve seen dogs regain their ability to run, jump, and play more comfortably within weeks of consistent use.
What’s Inside Ligaplex® I: Ingredient Breakdown
This supplement contains a proprietary blend of nutrient-dense foods and glandular extracts that work together to support strength, flexibility, and repair.
Main ingredients include:
- Bovine bone and veal bone PMG™ extract – Natural source of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and connective tissue.
- Calcium lactate – Highly absorbable calcium that supports bone density.
- Organic pea vine and oat flour – Rich in plant-based vitamins and minerals.
- Bovine liver and kidney – Provide B vitamins, amino acids, and trace minerals for overall vitality.
- Organic SP Beet Blend – (Swiss chard, beet root, and beet leaf) for antioxidant and immune support.
- Inositol – A natural carbohydrate that helps with nerve and muscle function.
- Nutritional yeast – Excellent source of B-vitamins for energy and cell repair.
Key vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin A: Vision, growth, immune health
- Vitamin C: Collagen production and antioxidant support
- Vitamin E: Protects cells from oxidative damage
- Vitamin B12: Nerve and red blood cell health
- Phosphorus and manganese: Bone strength and connective tissue repair
Each ingredient contributes to the body’s ability to build and maintain healthy tissues, making this formula a foundation for strong movement and natural healing.
When I Recommend Ligaplex® I
Ligaplex I can benefit a wide range of dogs. I often include it in care plans for:
- Arthritis and joint stiffness – Helps reduce inflammation and improve comfort.
- Hip dysplasia – Supports mobility and connective tissue strength.
- Sprains and strains – Speeds up healing and reduces soreness after injury.
- Post-surgery recovery – Aids tissue repair after orthopedic or soft-tissue procedures.
- Aging dogs – Maintains flexibility and activity levels in seniors.
- Knee injuries (like torn CCLs) – Helps protect the opposite leg and stabilize ligaments during recovery.
- Back pain or IVDD – Strengthens spinal joint tissues and surrounding muscles.
- Pelvic muscle weakness or incontinence – Supports tone in connective tissue around the pelvis.
How Ligaplex® I Works in the Body
Ligaplex I supports your dog’s natural repair systems in several ways:
- Reduces inflammation with antioxidants and tissue-supporting nutrients.
- Promotes collagen production, which keeps ligaments and tendons flexible and strong.
- Supports cartilage health to protect joints from wear and tear.
- Improves nutrient absorption through whole-food forms that the body recognizes and uses efficiently.
Many of my patients use Ligaplex I alongside therapies like cold laser therapy, acupuncture, or nutritional consults for even better results. Laser therapy in particular enhances circulation and speeds tissue repair, making it a perfect partner for this supplement.
Dosage and How to Give It
The right amount depends on your dog’s weight and health status:
| Dog Size | Recommended Dose |
|---|---|
| Small (1–20 lbs) | 1 capsule twice daily |
| Medium (21–50 lbs) | 1½ capsules twice daily |
| Large (51 lbs +) | 2 capsules twice daily |
You can:
- Hide the capsule in a treat or soft food.
- Open the capsule and sprinkle the powder on their meal.
Consistency is key. It usually takes 3–4 weeks to notice steady improvement, although some dogs show changes sooner.
Possible Side Effects and Safety
Ligaplex I is generally very gentle. Occasionally, dogs may experience:
- Mild stomach upset
- Temporary soft stool or vomiting
If these symptoms persist or your dog seems uncomfortable, pause the supplement and check with your veterinarian.
Always discuss new supplements if your dog takes prescription medications or has chronic health conditions.
Where to Purchase
For quality assurance, I recommend purchasing directly from Journeys Holistic Life. This ensures you’re getting genuine Standard Process supplements that have been stored and handled correctly.
Holistic Next Steps
If your dog has ongoing joint stiffness, weakness, or a history of injury, I can help you build a personalized plan that includes nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
Book an online holistic pet consultation with me to create a complete program for your dog’s mobility, recovery, and long-term comfort.
Together, we can help your pet move with strength, balance, and joy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ligaplex® I is a whole-food supplement formulated to support healthy joints, muscles, and connective tissue in dogs. It combines nutrient-rich ingredients that help maintain strength, flexibility, and recovery—especially in active, aging, or post-injury pets.
Ligaplex® I is given orally once or twice a day, depending on your dog’s size and health needs. You can offer the capsule as a treat, hide it in food, or open it and sprinkle the contents onto your dog’s meal. For exact dosage, refer to the chart above or follow your veterinarian’s recommendation.
This supplement is generally very gentle and well-tolerated. Occasionally, some dogs may experience mild digestive upset when first starting. If you notice persistent changes in appetite, stool, or behavior, pause the supplement and check with your veterinarian.
Yes. Although originally designed for humans, Ligaplex® I has been safely and effectively used in both dogs and cats for decades. Always confirm the proper dosage with your holistic veterinarian before use.
You can purchase genuine Standard Process supplements directly from Journeys Holistic Life, where I personally curate products I trust and use in my holistic veterinary practice.
