Should I give my dog joint supplements or vet-prescribed medication?
For UK dogs with arthritis, veterinary evidence supports starting with a comprehensive plan: weight management, joint-friendly exercise, and a quality supplement (glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, omega-3). Prescription options like NSAIDs (meloxicam, carprofen) or Librela (an antibody injection) are added when supplements alone aren't enough — always under vet supervision, not self-prescribed.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
When would you pick Joint supplements (Yumove, glucosamine)?
Mild-to-moderate signs; part of a long-term plan; alongside weight and exercise.
When would you pick Vet-prescribed medication (NSAIDs, Librela)?
Persistent limping; night pain; reduced quality of life; supplements alone aren't enough.
What should I be careful about?
Never give a dog human painkillers — paracetamol and ibuprofen can be fatal. Always consult your vet.