Many dogs experience joint pain and mobility issues as they age or develop conditions like osteoarthritis - if you're reading this, it's very likely that your dog is experiencing joint decline, or they're a breed that's vulnerable to it.
One supplement gaining serious attention for its unique approach to joint health is UC-II® — a patented form of undenatured type II collagen.
While this supplement is relatively new and unknown to many dog owners, it has been studied by researchers who suggest that it could be another one of the main natural joint-supportive ingredients big impact on canine joint health. Let's take a deeper look at UC-II® and see if it's the right option for your dog.
What Is UC-II®?
UC-II® is derived from chicken sternum cartilage using a patented process that preserves the natural 3D structure of the collagen protein.
The reason that UC-II® is a registered trademark is that it is a proprietary ingredient developed by InterHealth Nutraceuticals, and this company was acquired by a company called Lonza.
If a product contains an ingredient listed as UC-II, it is sourced from Lonza. This ensures that the sourcing, manufacturing, research validation, and supply chain are controlled by Lonza, and this leads to consistency in the quality of the products listed as "UC-II".
How Does UC-II® Compare to Other Forms of Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and it makes up a large portion of the joints, tendons, ligaments, and other aspects of the joint system. Type II collagen is primarily found in joint cartilage, making it a key ingredient for joint supplements in dogs.
Within the category of Type II collagen, there are two common variations.
The first type, is called "undenatured." Undenatured Type II collagen such as UC-II® are minimally processed to retain their structure, making them highly effective for joint health. Undenatured collagen is typically sourced from chicken sternum.
The second type is called "denatured" or "hydrolyzed." These are sourced from various animals and heat-treated or enzymatically broken down. These are supportive to joint health, although they might not be as effective as undenatured options.
If you see a product that contains "undenatured type II collagen" it is not the same thing as UC-II®, although it may be similar.
- Undenatured type II collagen refers to type II collagen that retains its natural 3D structure, which allows it to interact with the immune system and reduce joint inflammation through oral tolerance.
- UC-II® is a patented, clinically studied form of undenatured type II collagen made by Lonza, specifically standardized for purity, safety, and effectiveness in both humans and pets.
How UC-II® Supports Joint Health
UC-II® works by triggering a unique biological process known as oral tolerance.
When ingested, the undenatured type II collagen is recognized by immune tissues in the gut, which helps "teach" the immune system to stop attacking the body’s own joint cartilage. This is oral tolerance - the ability of the body to recognize and tolerate specific substances, which trains the system to stop attacking similar naturally-produced substances in the body.
This immune recalibration leads to a natural reduction in joint inflammation, without the side effects commonly seen with drugs. As inflammation subsides, dogs often experience noticeable improvements in flexibility, movement, and comfort—sometimes within as little as two weeks of consistent use.
Benefits of UC-II® for Dogs
UC-II® has been shown to help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis and hip dysplasia in dogs. Research evaluation shows these benefits, even suggesting that this product can "reduce OA signs, acting on the local immunity" and that it "improves mobility and quality of life."
It supports long-term joint health by helping maintain the integrity of cartilage over time. Clinical studies have found it to be more effective than the commonly used combination of glucosamine and chondroitin. Just 40 mg per day is enough to deliver measurable results, thanks to its potency. UC-II® is also safe and well-tolerated, making it a reliable option even for senior dogs with sensitive systems.
What Makes UC-II® Different?
Traditional joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin work by adding raw materials for cartilage repair. UC-II® takes a different approach by addressing the root cause of inflammation — the immune system.
That’s why it’s effective at much lower doses and works faster in many cases.
Scientific Backing
UC-II® has been studied in both humans and dogs, showing promising results for joint health. In a 2012 study using ground force plate analysis, dogs supplemented with UC-II® demonstrated significant improvements in mobility and weight-bearing compared to baseline.
In contrast, dogs given a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin or a placebo showed no statistically significant improvements—even after 150 days of supplementation. These findings highlight UC-II®'s superior effectiveness in improving joint function in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Is UC-II® Right for Your Dog?
If your dog struggles with stiffness, pain, or limited mobility, UC-II® may offer a safer, research-backed alternative to traditional joint supplements. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions.
Also consider using these products in conjunction with other well-supported options for joint health such as CBD oil. CBD oil has yielded similarly incredible results for tens of thousands of dogs around the United States and abroad.
Final Thoughts
UC-II® represents a new class of joint support—one that doesn’t just mask symptoms but helps retrain the body’s response to inflammation. For pet parents looking to keep their dogs active and comfortable, it’s a standout ingredient to consider.
