Green-lipped mussels (GLMs) are a popular joint supplement for dogs, marketed for their anti-inflammatory properties. Importantly, GLMs have not been approved to treat any disease in dogs. Research on their effectiveness is currently limited.
That said, dog owners have seen improvements in their dogs from using Green-Lipped Mussels.
This article will cover the best green-lipped mussel supplements for dogs, what they can do, and more.
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Green Lipped Mussel for Dogs Overview
First things first: what are GLMs, anyway?
What is Green-Lipped Mussel?
Green-lipped mussels are a type of shellfish native to New Zealand. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans (like chondroitin and glucosamine), and various antioxidants.
Benefits of Green Lipped Mussel for Dogs
1. Joint Health:
The omega-3 fatty acids in green-lipped mussel can help reduce inflammation in joints, making it beneficial for dogs with arthritis or joint pain.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
It may help decrease inflammation throughout the body, which can benefit dogs with various inflammatory conditions.
3. Supports Mobility:
Regular use may improve overall mobility and flexibility in aging dogs or those with joint issues.
4. Nutrient-Rich:
It contains a variety of essential nutrients that can support overall health, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
5. Digestive Health:
Some dogs may benefit from improved gut health, as green-lipped mussel can support the digestive system.
In dogs, green-lipped mussels are praised for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Overall, there is inadequate evidence to say that GLMs can treat arthritis in dogs.
Still, what do we know so far? Let's review a few studies on green-lipped mussels for dogs.
What Does The Research Say?
Several studies have investigated the effects of green-lipped mussels for dogs.
Reduced Pain & Improved Mobility
One study found that dogs with joint pain who were given GLM supplements had reduced pain and improved mobility after six weeks (4). Most dogs that ate dog food with green-lipped mussel powder improved by the end of the trial.
Reduced Joint Stiffness
Another study also showed that most dogs taking a green-lipped mussel supplement had reduced arthritis symptoms, this time after eight weeks (5).
A Safe Option for Dogs Who Can't Take NSAIDs
The researchers suggested that it may help dogs who can't take NSAIDs. The safety of GLMs was also good in both studies, with no side effects reported.
Best Powder Green Lipped Mussels for Small Dogs
If you've got a small dog experiencing some stiffness and difficulty, a supplement including green-lipped mussels could help. Green lipped mussels are usually formulated into a powder then added to another, tastier option for your dog.
Here's our choice for the best small dog GLM supplement:
Lolahemp Hip & Joint Soft Chews
These soft chews include green-lipped mussel, full-spectrum CBD oil, MSM, and glucosamine to help small dogs like yours improve their symptoms.
Lolahemp's Hip & Joint Soft Chews: formulated with CBD and Green-Lipped Mussels. Click Here to Shop and Learn More.
Final Thoughts on The Use of Green Mussels for Dogs
Green-lipped mussels are a safe alternative to NSAIDs, and they can support dogs with mobility struggles. They are not guaranteed to work, although research shows that they can be effective and they're safe for most dogs.
References
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/green-lipped-mussels-dogs-how-they-can-help
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/osteoarthritis-signs-treatment/
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_multi_arthritis_osteoarthritis
- https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/132/6/1634S/4687864?login=false
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2722199/
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/ar2016
