subject: Glucosamine HCL vs Glucosamine Sulfate - Which is better for a dog's joints? [print this page] Glucosamine HCL vs Glucosamine Sulfate - Which is better for a dog's joints?
In my job at Cavida Canine Science, a pet supplement company that specializes in canine joint pain relief, I have received lot of questions about the difference between Glucosamine HCL and Glucosamine Sulfate in dog joint supplements. The internet can be both helpful and confusing on the subject. So, let me provide some perspective on the difference.
Glucosamine is naturally produced in your dog's body from glucose and the Amino Acid, Glutamine (hence the name, "glucosamine"). It acts creates a cushion-like effect on the cartilage between the joints, allowing them to retain water so that they can absorb shock and withstand compression. Many joint supplements utilize glucosamine as the main ingredient because it is one of the major building blocks utilized in the body's synthesis of the lubricants and shock absorbing mechanisms necessary to maintain and restore healthy joint performance.
Pure glucosamine is very "hygroscopic", which means it retains moisture and breaks down quickly when exposed to air. When sold commercially, glucosamine must be bound to a stabilizer to keep it shelf stable. After glucosamine is bound, it is stable and will not degrade before it can get to the store shelf. Sulfate and the HCL forms are two of the most common "agents" used to ensure its stability. This is why you never find "just" glucosamine and instead find Glucosamine Sulfate or Glucosamine HCL.
So, which is better for your dog? Does it even matter?
Well, the good news is that your pet's body does not really care how it gets glucosamine as long as it is bioavailable, meaning it can easily be absorbed in the body. Both forms of glucosamine are bioavailable and, therefore, promise the same efficacy.
You may think that is the end of the story. But, there is one big difference between the two. Glucosamine sulfate is stabilized with sodium chloride (table salt) and can contain as much as 30% sodium. Most dogs have no issue with increased sodium and the only real side effect may be excessive thirst. Dogs will simply excrete the excess sodium through their urine.
However, older dogs and dogs that suffer from liver, kidney, or heart diseases are more susceptible to higher sodium content. It is for this reason, I recommend glucosamine hydrochloride (HCL) over glucosamine sulfate for dog joint supplements. Most dogs with joint or arthritic issues typically fall into the aforementioned group and, therefore, may need to minimize their sodium intake. Glucosamine hydrochloride (HCL) is more concentrated than the sulfate form and contains substantially less sodium per effective dose than the sulfate form. D-Glucosamine HCL contains 98% glucosamine, whereas Glucosamine Sulfate contains 75% glucosamine.
Please note that if your dog is suffering from severe joint or arthritis issues, I believe the best supplements for your dog should also include ingredients that work synergistically with glucosamine to help rebuild cartilage, ease pain, reduce inflammation, and increase mobility.
These include:
- Chondroitin Sulfate
- Boswellin
- Yucca Powder
- Manganese Ascorbate
- Bromelain
- Vitamin C
- Hylaronic Acid
- Omega 3 Fatty Acid
- Omega 6 Fatty Acid
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