When to Start Joint Supplements for Dogs
If you’ve ever wondered when to start joint supplements for dogs, you’re not alone. Many pet parents ask this question — especially if they have larger breeds, active pups, or ageing companions.
Joint supplements can support healthy mobility, flexibility, and comfort at every stage of your dog’s life. But knowing when to begin can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Best age to start joint support for your dog
- Early signs your dog may benefit from soft chews
- Key ingredients to look for in dog joint supplements
- How to keep your dog active and comfortable for longer
Why Joint Supplements for Dogs Matter
As dogs age, their joints naturally experience wear and tear - especially in high-energy breeds like Huskies, Labradors, and German Shepherds. Even younger, playful pups can sometimes need extra support.
Adding joint supplement chews for dogs can help:
- Support healthy cartilage and connective tissues
- Maintain flexibility and mobility
- Provide nutrients commonly used for hip and joint comfort
Best Age to Start Joint Supplements for Dogs
There isn’t a single “one-size-fits-all” answer, but here’s a helpful guide:
- Puppies (0-12 months): Usually not needed unless your vet recommends it
- Young Adults (1-3 years): Many owners start joint support early for active or large breeds
- Adults (4-7 years): A popular stage to introduce daily supplements to help maintain comfort and mobility
- Seniors (8+ years): Older dogs benefit from ongoing support as part of their wellness routine
Vet Insight: Many veterinarians recommend starting joint supplements for larger, active breeds from around 12–18 months. This is when dogs are fully grown, but their joints are still experiencing higher levels of activity and stress.
Signs Your Dog May Benefit from Joint Supplement Chews
Dogs can’t tell us when something feels uncomfortable - but they often show subtle signs. Look out for:
- Hesitation when jumping on furniture
- Slower to climb stairs or get up after naps
- Less enthusiasm for play or walks
- Shifting weight from one leg to another
- Licking joints or stiff movement after exercise
If you notice these behaviors, adding a joint supplement chew could be worth discussing with your vet.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Dog Joint Supplements
When choosing a supplement, look for research-backed, naturally derived ingredients that help support hip and joint health:
- Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM → Commonly used to support cartilage structure and joint cushioning
- Boswellia Serrata → Exceptional for helping maintain joint comfort
- Green-Lipped Mussel → Rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support flexibility and mobility
- Turmeric → Contains compounds to help maintain a healthy inflammatory response
- Collagen → Provides key building blocks to help maintain healthy cartilage and connective tissue
At The Wolf Society, our Hip & Joint Soft Chews are made with these carefully selected ingredients, third-party tested for quality, and loved by dogs of all sizes.
Dog Joint Supplements for Active Breeds
If your dog loves running, hiking, or long walks, their joints work extra hard every day. That’s why many owners of Huskies, Labradors, German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and other active breeds choose to add joint supplement chews earlier.
Soft chews can help support flexibility and maintain mobility - giving your dog the extra boost they need to keep up with an adventurous lifestyle.
How Soft Chews Fit into Your Dog’s Wellness Routine
Adding joint support soft chews is simple and stress-free:
- One to three tasty chews a day (based on your dog’s weight)
- Easy to build into their daily routine
Our chews are designed with a picky dog-approved flavor - so most pups see them as a treat, not a supplement.
Final Thoughts: Start When It Feels Right for Your Dog
There’s no “perfect age” for joint supplements for dogs - but if you have a larger or highly active breed, many vets recommend starting from around 12–18 months to give their joints the extra nutritional support they need.
Whether you have an energetic adult or a senior companion, daily joint supplements can be a great way to show them a little extra care.
Ready to Support Your Dog’s Joints?
Our Hip & Joint Soft Chews are formulated with natural, human-grade ingredients, backed by research, and inspired by our own husky, Romeo.
💛 Every batch third-party safety and quality tested
🌿 Natural, research-backed ingredients
❄️ No heat used = nutrients preserved