Green-LipGreen-Lipped Mussels for Dogs - Updated 2023

Green-lipped mussels aren’t much to look at. These mollusks, native to New Zealand, appear much like others of their kind.

The big difference? The green rim on their shells that gives them their name.

Of course, that’s just the external difference. Because these otherwise unimpressive creatures have been found to have robust medical and health benefits in studies. But what about green-lipped mussels for dogs? Particularly for dogs suffering from arthritis and other types of joint discomfort.

Why? How do they work? Are they really that great?

Table of Contents:

How do green-lipped mussels help joint discomfort?
But does your dog need green-lipped mussels?

Why are green-lipped mussels so good at relieving joint discomfort in dogs?

Green-lipped mussels help promote a normal inflammatory response

Like fish oil, green-lipped mussels are chock-full of omega-3s, which help support a normal inflammatory response. But green-lipped mussels work even better. That’s because they contain additional compounds that work with the omega-3s.

Green-lipped mussels help support joint health

Chondroitin. Glucosamine. Magnesium. Zinc. What do all of those compounds have in common? They support joint health . And that makes them work better longer.

Oh, and they’re all found in green-lipped mussels. Every. Single. One.

Green-lipped mussels help protect joints

Additionally, according to experts, green-lipped mussels protect joints and alleviate joint discomfort because they contain compounds such as glycosaminoglycans, in addition to other vitamins and minerals.

Green-lipped mussels help support cartilage and joint fluid

Green-lipped mussels contain polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs), which have been called “the building blocks for cartilage and joint fluid.”

But does your dog need green-lipped mussels?

Here’s what we know...

If your dog suffers from hip and joint discomfort, science says that green-lipped mussels can help significantly.
If your dog isn’t currently suffering from joint problems, it’s probably just a matter of time.

According to research by Dr. Karyl Hurley, a veterinarian at England’s Waltham’s research center, “over 50% of dogs over the age of eight start to develop arthritis in various joints… usually their hips, knees and elbows.”

In other words: even if your dog isn’t struggling with their joint health right now, they probably will as they get older.

Supplements with green-lipped mussels can help to delay and minimize these issues and prolong the health and well-being of your furry friend. So your pup can stay active, energetic, and free of discomfort for as long as possible.

Who wouldn’t want that for their best friend?

Have you tried green-lipped mussels for your dog? How did you give it to them? How did your pup respond?

Sources

Camille is a co-founder of PetHonesty and VP of Pup Parent Education. After watching her own family dog suffer from joint issues for years she became passionate about improving dogs' quality of life. With the help of a team of veterinarians and dog nutritionists she now helps educate other dog owners about the small but powerful things they can do to positively impact their dogs' health and wellness! She lives in Austin, TX and loves cuddling puppies, being outside and reading.