Quick answer
Our top pick for a dog joint supplement that also helps control tartar is Nutramax Cosequin Plus with MSM & DHA. It combines glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health with DHA for dental support. For dogs needing a chewable option, Zesty Paws Advanced Joint Health Chews offer a similar dual benefit. Budget-conscious owners may prefer PetLab Co. Joint Chews, though they have fewer dental-specific ingredients.
What to consider for Dog Joint Supplement For Tartar Control
When choosing a joint supplement that also targets tartar, look for products that contain ingredients like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) or chlorhexidine, which are known to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, the joint support components (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM) should be present at clinically studied levels. Consider your dog’s size, age, and any existing health conditions. Chewable forms may provide additional mechanical cleaning action, but ensure the texture is safe and palatable. Always check for the NASC Quality Seal to verify manufacturing standards.
What to look for in a health product (dental, probiotic, joint, allergy or calming supplement)
Look for products with an NASC Quality Seal, which indicates third-party auditing of manufacturing. For joint support, ensure glucosamine and chondroitin are listed with specific amounts (e.g., glucosamine HCl 500 mg per chew). For dental benefits, ingredients like DHA or natural abrasives should be present. Probiotic supplements should state CFU count and specific strains. Dosing should be clearly weight-based. Choose products from reputable manufacturers with transparent labeling and avoid those with artificial fillers.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated ingredient lists for clinically relevant amounts of joint-supporting compounds.
- Checked for additional dental-support ingredients like DHA or natural plaque reducers.
- Reviewed brand reputation and manufacturing standards (NASC membership).
- Considered product form (chewable, tablet, powder) and palatability for dogs.
- Assessed value for money based on cost per serving and ingredient quality.
- Read customer feedback to identify common benefits and limitations.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid products claiming to cure or prevent diseases like arthritis or periodontal disease.
- Do not use human joint supplements; they may contain ingredients toxic to dogs (e.g., xylitol).
- Steer clear of supplements with vague proprietary blends that don’t list individual ingredient amounts.
- Never exceed the labeled dose; more is not better and can cause side effects.
For more pet care advice, visit our dog guides, dog health, and dog nutrition sections.
