As our pups grow older, age-related problems (such as joint wear) start to creep in. That’s when you may notice them slowing down, staying in bed more than usual, and avoiding things like stairs.
Obviously, as dog owners, we hate to see our furry friends struggling or experiencing discomfort.
While arthritis is part of the natural aging process, there are many things you can do to prevent and ease your pet’s joint pain and stiffness.
One of the ways you can help dogs with joint inflammation is to add glucosamine and chondroitin to their menu. So, to help you make the best decision, we have put together a complete Dasuquin vs Cosequin comparison guide!
In this review, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about these popular joint supplements, as well as what dietary changes you should make to treat arthritis.
Like with all medical conditions, make sure to get your dog seen by a vet for a proper diagnosis and professional advice.
Dasuquin vs Cosequin: Which One’s Better for Your Dog?
Cosequin Soft Chews Maximum Strength with MSM
Cosequin is a well-rounded glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. It also contains MSM and manganese, which are important for joint repair and formation of connective tissues.
While Dasuquin is priced higher, Cosequin is the same base product, and has the necessary components for lowering joint inflammation and pain.
But keep in mind that this product contains less active ingredients (glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM), so it will probably be best for dogs who have slight discomfort or pain.
It can also be used for preventing joint problems in young dogs.
Cosequin is suitable for dogs of all sizes, and is a great option for joint health support and joints protection.
It comes in tablets or soft chews, and the latter can be used as a treat if your dog is struggling with swallowing pills. The only difference is that the soft chews also have Omega-3 in them.
Pros
- Includes glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and manganese
- Relieves joint inflammation and pain
- Suitable for all dogs
- Great for joint protection
- Ideal for joint problems prevention
- Contains Omega-3 (soft chews)
- No adverse side effects
Cons
- Not potent enough for some dogs
- No ASU
Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews
Heralded as the next generation Cosequin, Dasuquin is one of the most recommended joint supplement by veterinarians.
Compared to Cosequin, Dasuquin has more glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM per tablet, which makes it perfect for preventing deterioration of the joints, as well as treating existing joint issues.
This supplement also contains green tea for maintaining general health, as well as ASU powder, which is used to reduce inflammation and slow cartilage destruction.
ASU also helps to increase the absorption and effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin. This is what makes for the significant price difference.
While there are many glucosamine products out there, most of them don’t provide data that back up their claims.
Dasuquin is among the exceptions, being one of the few supplements that show measurable improvements in mobility and lowered pain levels.
Plus, this product is guaranteed to be 99% pure, while many other supplements only have about 20% of bioavailable glucosamine.
Dasuquin is available for small to medium dogs up to 60 pounds, and for large dogs weighing 60 pounds and over.
Here, too, you can choose between tablets to soft chews, which look and taste just like normal dog treats. In case you plan to use a tablet, be sure to hide it in wet food or peanut butter.
Pros
- Contains glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and ASU
- Reduce joint inflammation
- Ideal for advanced cases of joint damage
- Builds and protects cartilage
- 99% pure glucosamine
- Suitable for all dogs
- No adverse side effects
Cost
- A bit costly compared to Cosequin
What’s the Difference Between Dasuquin and Cosequin?
Dasuquin and Cosequin are very similar joint supplements made by a company named Nutramax Labs.
Both of these products contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, all of which can help dogs who suffer from joint diseases, discomfort, and pain.
What’s MSM in Dasuquin and Cosequin?
MSM is a natural anti-inflammatory supplement that can also be found in many raw fruits and leafy vegetables. It helps with easing arthritis and joint pain.
Some of its benefits include:
- Decreased joint inflammation
- Restored healthy bodily tissue
- Improved flexibility
- And enhanced immune function
However, Dasuquin has one big advantage—it also includes an antioxidant called ASU.
What’s ASU in Dasuquin?
ASU, or Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables, is a natural extract made from avocado and soybean oil, and it’s believed to protect against cartilage damage and reduce inflammation.
Warning: You may want to avoid ASU if your dog is allergic to avocado or soy. In that case, you should go with Cosequin.
What Should You Get?
Dasuquin is usually best for dogs with advanced arthritis, hip, or elbow dysplasia, while Cosequin is often used for the prevention of joint issues, especially in large breed dogs.
That means that if your dog hasn’t shown early signs of joint problems, such as limping or stiffness, Cosequin can be an excellent choice to rebuild joint cartilage and maintain overall joint health.
As soon as your dog gets old and starts to experience joint pain, you should consider moving to Dasuquin. Keep in mind that since these are natural supplements, it may take longer for them to work compared to anti-inflammatory drugs.
This doesn’t mean that you should make up your own doses though. Be sure to follow the guidelines set forth by the company or your veterinarian to avoid potential side effects.
Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure of the severity of your dog’s condition. You may need to consider incorporating non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if your dog’s condition doesn’t improve.
As a matter of fact, combining joint supplements with other forms of arthritis treatment tends to work extremely well.
When Should You Use a Joint Supplement for Your Dog?
Arthritis
Glucosamine and chondroitin are often used to treat dogs with arthritis. These ingredients, along with MSM and ASU, can decrease inflammation and help the body to repair and strengthen the joints.
Considering the severity of your dog’s condition, you may need to choose different products for dealing with arthritis and its symptoms.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Other common joint issues are hip and elbow dysplasia.
When introduced during puppyhood, joint supplements can help the joints to grow properly. However, it’s also necessary for active and adult dogs to prevent injury, and for keeping their joints in top shape.
Joint Pain
Having joint pain doesn’t necessarily mean your dog has arthritis. Other joint problems may also cause pain or swelling, or lead to cartilage damage.
In that case, go see a veterinarian to find out the root of the problem, and ask him about a supplement that can relieve your dog’s joint pain.
Joint Injury
Whether it’s tissue or cartilage damage, your dog needs to have it repaired in order to return to his normal activities.
Both of Dasuquin and Cosequin can help repair damaged tissues, yet Dasuquin is the best option for cartilage repair.
Senior Dogs
Just like humans, aging dogs tend to suffer from joint stiffness and ache, which slows them down and makes them less flexible.
It’s recommended to use a joint supplement as soon as your dog enters into his senior years, as this will control the progression of joint diseases and limit their deterioration.
Healthy Diet for Helping Joint Pain
Nutritional supplements are just that, a supplement!
As important as they may be, they can’t be expected to take the place of a healthy and balanced diet.
Bad food choices or excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity. The extra pounds your dog carries can overload the joints over time, and make it even more difficult for a dog with arthritis.
If you have a large breed dog who needs to lose some weight, consider moving him to a weight management diet.
High-quality dog food for large breeds and seniors should already include glucosamine and chondroitin, as these dogs are at more risk for joint problems and injury.
However, be aware that the glucosamine and chondroitin content in dog food is usually too low for dogs with a condition that needs treatment. In that case, it’s best to add a supplement.
Also, consider incorporating a natural anti-inflammatory, such as turmeric or fish oil to reduce the intensity of joint symptoms.
Omega-3 for Joint Pain
Fatty acids such as EPA and DHA, which are found in cold-water fish, can help with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
That said, Omega-3 shouldn’t be a substitute for a joint supplement.
Bottom Line
When looking at Dasuquin vs Cosequin, you can’t help but love Dasuquin. This supplement includes everything your dog needs to return to his old, energetic self.
It helps rebuild damaged joint tissues and healthy cartilage, and stop cartilage from breaking down.
The combination of glucosamine and chondroitin, along with MSM and ASU, is what sets Dasuquin apart. In fact, adding ASU into the formula has been proven to be more effective than glucosamine and chondroitin alone.
Does that mean that Dasuquin is better than Cosequin? Not necessarily.
In some cases, Cosequin may be enough. This supplement is considered to be an affordable option that many owners are happy with, but it packs less power than Dasuquin, and should be used mainly for the prevention of future joint problems.
As with any medical issue, prevention is the best medicine, so don’t wait until your dog is older and starts to show signs of deterioration. Instead, consider putting him on a joint supplement as soon as possible.
Please note that supplements aren’t regulated in the US, so be sure to always look for a manufacturer that you know and trust.
Nutramax is known for testing their products and sharing their data. This kind of transparency is important, and shows you that the company stands behind their products. For me, that says a lot.
