Best Hip and Joint Treats for Dogs (2026)

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

If your dog has started to slow down on walks, struggles to climb stairs, or takes a little longer to stand up after a nap, you are not alone. Joint issues are one of the most common health concerns for dogs, affecting an estimated 20% of dogs over the age of one and up to 80% of senior dogs. The good news is that a daily joint supplement treat can make a real difference in your dog’s comfort and mobility.

Hip and joint treats deliver targeted ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM in a form your dog actually looks forward to eating. Unlike pills or powders that can be a daily battle, these soft chews taste like treats while delivering clinically studied compounds that support cartilage health, reduce inflammation, and improve joint lubrication. Whether your dog is a young athlete prone to wear and tear, a middle-aged companion showing early signs of stiffness, or a senior dealing with arthritis, the right joint treat can help them move more freely and enjoy life to the fullest.

In this guide, we have reviewed the top hip and joint treats available in 2026, compared their active ingredients and dosages, and broken down exactly what to look for so you can make the best choice for your four-legged friend.

What to Look For in Hip and Joint Treats  

Not all joint supplements are created equal. Here are the key factors to evaluate before you buy.

Key Active Ingredients  

Glucosamine is the cornerstone ingredient in joint supplements. It helps rebuild and maintain cartilage, the cushioning tissue between joints. Look for glucosamine HCl (hydrochloride), which is the most bioavailable form. Effective dosages typically range from 300-750mg per chew depending on your dog’s weight.

Chondroitin sulfate works hand-in-hand with glucosamine. While glucosamine helps build new cartilage, chondroitin helps protect existing cartilage from breaking down by blocking destructive enzymes. The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin has been shown in clinical studies to be more effective than either ingredient alone.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a natural sulfur compound that supports connective tissue and has anti-inflammatory properties. Look for OptiMSM, a patented, highly purified form that ensures consistency and potency.

Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish oil or green-lipped mussel provide anti-inflammatory benefits that complement the cartilage-building effects of glucosamine and chondroitin.

Additional beneficial ingredients include turmeric (natural anti-inflammatory), hemp seed oil (omega fatty acids and calming properties), hyaluronic acid (joint lubrication), and CoQ10 (antioxidant support).

Form and Palatability  

The best supplement in the world is useless if your dog refuses to eat it. Soft chews are by far the most popular form because dogs perceive them as treats. Look for flavors your dog enjoys, whether that is chicken, bacon, duck, or beef. If your dog is a picky eater, check reviews to see how other owners rate palatability.

Quality and Safety Standards  

Choose products manufactured in the USA in FDA-registered, GMP-certified (Good Manufacturing Practices) facilities. Third-party testing by organizations like the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) provides an additional layer of quality assurance. Check for the NASC seal on the packaging.

Dog Size and Life Stage  

Many joint treats come in a single size with dosing adjusted by weight. Make sure the product you choose provides adequate levels of active ingredients for your dog’s size. Larger breeds typically need higher doses, so consider both the per-chew dosage and the number of chews recommended daily.

Best Hip and Joint Treats for Dogs: Our Top 6 Picks  

1. Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength (120ct) - Best Overall  

Price range: $28-38

The number one vet-recommended joint supplement brand in the United States, Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength 120ct has earned its reputation through decades of clinical research and proven results. This formula delivers a powerful combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids, all backed by published veterinary studies showing real improvements in joint health.

Cosequin is manufactured in the USA at Nutramax Laboratories’ own facilities under rigorous quality control standards. It consistently ranks as the #1 Best Seller in dog hip and joint supplements on Amazon, and it is the supplement most frequently recommended by veterinarians to their clients.

Pros:

• Number one vet-recommended joint supplement brand
• Clinically proven formula backed by peer-reviewed research
• Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3s
• Manufactured in the USA with strict quality controls
• #1 Best Seller on Amazon in its category
• 120-count jar provides excellent value for daily use

Cons:

• Higher price point than some competitors
• Chews are on the larger side for very small dogs
• Some dogs may need a 4-6 week loading period before noticing results

2. Zesty Paws Mobility Bites (90ct) - Best Flavor  

Price range: $25-32

Zesty Paws Mobility Bites 90ct are a powerhouse joint supplement wrapped in a delicious bacon-flavored soft chew that dogs absolutely love. The formula features glucosamine HCl, chondroitin, and OptiMSM (the premium, patented form of MSM known for its high purity and bioavailability). They also include vitamins C and E, which provide antioxidant support to help fight free radical damage in joint tissues.

As an Amazon Best Seller, Zesty Paws has built a strong following among dog owners who report visible improvements in their dogs’ mobility within just a few weeks. The bacon flavor is a standout, with even the pickiest eaters gobbling these up eagerly.

Pros:

• Contains OptiMSM, a premium patented form of MSM
• Bacon flavor is highly palatable for even picky dogs
• Includes vitamins C and E for antioxidant support
• Amazon Best Seller with thousands of positive reviews
• Soft chew texture is easy for older dogs to eat
• No artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons:

• 90-count jar may not last as long for larger dogs on higher doses
• Slightly pricier per chew compared to some alternatives
• Contains some grain-based fillers

3. Doggie Dailies Glucosamine (225ct) - Best Value  

Price range: $22-28

If you are looking for the most bang for your buck, Doggie Dailies Glucosamine 225ct delivers an impressive 225-count jar packed with eight active ingredients at a price that undercuts most competitors. Beyond the standard glucosamine and chondroitin, this formula includes CoQ10 for cellular energy and antioxidant support, hyaluronic acid for joint lubrication, and yucca schidigera for natural anti-inflammatory benefits.

The duck flavor is a pleasant change from the typical chicken or beef options and appeals to dogs with common protein sensitivities. At roughly 10-12 cents per chew, Doggie Dailies offers the best per-treat value on our list without sacrificing ingredient quality.

Pros:

• Best value with 225 chews per jar
• Eight active ingredients including CoQ10 and hyaluronic acid
• Duck flavor is novel and highly palatable
• Great option for multi-dog households looking to save
• Soft chews are appropriately sized for most breeds
• Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility

Cons:

• Lower dosages of individual ingredients per chew compared to premium brands
• Less clinical research backing this specific formula
• Packaging could be improved for freshness preservation

4. PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint (90ct) - Best Hemp-Based Formula  

Price range: $23-28

PetHonesty Hemp Hip + Joint 90ct takes a unique approach by combining traditional joint support ingredients with hemp seed powder and turmeric for a more holistic formula. The inclusion of green-lipped mussel, a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids and glycosaminoglycans, sets this product apart from standard glucosamine-only supplements.

Earning the Amazon’s Choice badge, PetHonesty has gained a loyal following among pet owners who prefer a more natural, multi-functional approach to joint care. The turmeric provides potent anti-inflammatory properties, while the hemp supports overall comfort and calmness, which is especially beneficial for dogs whose joint pain causes anxiety or restlessness.

Pros:

• Unique combination of hemp, glucosamine, turmeric, and green-lipped mussel
• Amazon’s Choice product with strong customer satisfaction
• Green-lipped mussel provides natural joint-supporting omega-3s
• Turmeric offers proven anti-inflammatory benefits
• May also help with calming and overall comfort
• No corn, soy, or artificial preservatives

Cons:

• 90-count jar at higher doses for large dogs means frequent repurchasing
• Hemp ingredient may not be desired by all pet owners
• Flavor not as universally loved as bacon or chicken options

5. StrellaLab Hemp Treats (120ct) - Best for Large Dogs  

Price range: $22-28

StrellaLab Hemp Treats 120ct offers a comprehensive joint formula in a chicken-flavored soft chew that large-breed dogs go crazy for. The formula combines glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids, covering all the essential bases for joint support. The 120-count container and competitive pricing make this an excellent choice for owners of large breeds who go through supplements quickly.

As a Best Seller on Amazon, StrellaLab has earned its place through consistent quality and a formula that delivers noticeable results. The chicken flavor has broad appeal, and the chew size and texture work well for dogs of all sizes, though they are particularly well-suited for medium to large breeds.

Pros:

• Comprehensive formula with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3
• Chicken flavor is widely appealing across breeds
• 120-count container at a competitive price
• Best Seller on Amazon with strong review ratings
• Good chew size for medium and large dogs
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• May be too large for toy and very small breeds
• Chondroitin dosage is lower than some premium competitors
• Hemp dosage is relatively modest compared to dedicated hemp products

6. NATURE TARGET Glucosamine (120ct) - Best Budget Pick  

Price range: $18-24

For pet owners watching their budget without wanting to compromise on ingredient variety, NATURE TARGET Glucosamine 120ct packs an impressive ingredient list into the most affordable option on our list. This formula includes glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, MSM, hemp, turmeric, and calcium, making it one of the most comprehensive formulas available at any price point.

At under $24, NATURE TARGET proves that effective joint support does not have to break the bank. While individual ingredient dosages may be somewhat lower than premium brands, the sheer breadth of joint-supporting compounds means your dog is getting multi-angle support for cartilage, inflammation, and bone health.

Pros:

• Most affordable option on our list at $18-24
• Includes seven key ingredients: glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, MSM, hemp, turmeric, and calcium
• Calcium addition supports overall bone health alongside joint support
• 120-count container provides good supply
• Great entry-level option for dogs just starting joint supplementation

Cons:

• Lower individual ingredient dosages compared to premium options
• Less brand recognition and fewer long-term customer reviews
• Limited flavor options available
• Packaging is basic compared to leading brands

Comparison Table  

How to Introduce Joint Treats to Your Dog  

Start with a lower dose than recommended for the first few days to make sure your dog tolerates the treat well. Most manufacturers recommend a “loading phase” of double dosing for the first 4-6 weeks, then dropping down to a maintenance dose. Always follow the specific feeding guidelines on the product you choose.

Joint supplements work best as a long-term commitment. Unlike pain medications that work immediately, glucosamine and chondroitin build up in the body over time. Most owners report noticeable improvements within 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use.

If your dog is already on medications for joint issues, consult your veterinarian before adding a supplement treat to make sure there are no interactions.

When Should You Start Joint Supplements?  

Many veterinarians now recommend starting joint supplements proactively, especially for breeds prone to hip and joint issues. Large and giant breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Great Danes can benefit from joint support starting as early as one to two years of age. For smaller breeds and mixed breeds without known joint predispositions, starting around age five to seven is a reasonable approach.

If your dog is already showing signs of stiffness or discomfort, there is no reason to wait. Starting a joint supplement now, alongside any treatments your vet recommends, can help slow further cartilage breakdown and improve your dog’s quality of life.

For more tips on supporting your aging companion, check out our guide to the best treats for senior dogs. And if you are looking for a natural chew that also supports joint health through collagen, take a look at our roundup of the best collagen sticks for dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Do hip and joint treats really work for dogs?  

Yes, there is solid clinical evidence that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements improve joint health in dogs. A number of peer-reviewed veterinary studies have demonstrated reduced pain, improved mobility, and slowed cartilage degeneration with consistent supplementation. Results vary by individual dog, but the majority of owners report visible improvements within 4-8 weeks.

How long does it take for joint treats to start working?  

Most dogs show noticeable improvement within 4-8 weeks of daily supplementation. Some owners report changes as early as 2-3 weeks, while dogs with more severe joint issues may take up to 12 weeks. Consistency is key, as the active ingredients build up in the body over time.

Can I give joint treats to a young, healthy dog as a preventive measure?  

Absolutely. Many veterinarians recommend starting joint supplements proactively for breeds prone to hip dysplasia and joint problems. Starting early can help maintain cartilage health before degeneration begins, which is much more effective than trying to rebuild damaged cartilage later.

Are there any side effects of joint supplements for dogs?  

Joint supplements are generally very safe. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal issues like soft stools or gas, especially during the first week. These typically resolve as your dog’s system adjusts. If your dog has a shellfish allergy, look for plant-based glucosamine alternatives, as most glucosamine is derived from shellfish shells.

Can I combine joint treats with other supplements or medications?  

In most cases, yes, but always consult your veterinarian first. Joint supplement treats are generally safe to use alongside most medications, but your vet can advise on any potential interactions, especially if your dog is taking NSAIDs or other anti-inflammatory drugs.

What is the difference between glucosamine HCl and glucosamine sulfate?  

Glucosamine HCl (hydrochloride) is approximately 99% pure glucosamine, while glucosamine sulfate is about 65% pure glucosamine with the remainder being sulfate salt. Most veterinary supplements use glucosamine HCl because it delivers more active glucosamine per milligram and is more stable.

Conclusion  

Choosing the right hip and joint treat for your dog can make a meaningful difference in their comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. For most dog owners, Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength 120ct is the safest and most proven choice, backed by the most clinical evidence and recommended by more veterinarians than any other brand. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still covers all the bases, NATURE TARGET Glucosamine 120ct delivers an impressive ingredient list at the lowest price point, while Doggie Dailies Glucosamine 225ct offers the best per-treat value with its 225-count container.

No matter which product you choose, the most important thing is consistency. Give the supplement time to work, follow the recommended dosing guidelines, and work with your veterinarian to create a comprehensive joint health plan for your dog. Your furry friend’s comfort and happiness are worth the investment.