German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America

[Dave1967]

I submitted this request on the Versatile Dog Web page Message Board and only received one response so I am hoping that I will generate a larger range of opinions on this subject. I would appreciate some opinions concerning Glucosamine as an additive to the Puppy products that are now available, i.e. Natural Choice Large Breed Puppy Controlled Growth Formula and others. My primary concern in on the Pro's or con's of the additive for puppies.

[cheerio]

Glucosamine has been found to stop degenerative articulations due to the rubbing of bones (arthritis) by allowing the formation of a renewed lubrication. There is also evidence that not only will it stop the degenerative process, it may also avoid its onset.
However, the articulation of a normal pup is not at risk and does not require any particular treatment. Furthermore, there is no evidence that Glucosamine taken in puppyhood will interfer with the formation of arthritis in that same older dog. Giving glucosamine to a pup is a little like giving a tylenol tablet to a child in case he developps migraines as an adult!
Glucosamine supplement is not required for the developpement of joints in a normal pup, and therefore, I do not think that it will be of any benefit in avoidance of dysplasia which I am assuming is the implied goal to this supplement.
A better way to avoid dysplasia is to buy a pup who breeds only dogs who have been duely OFAed, to lower the level of proteins given to a pup as soon as he reaches 6 months, which is achieved by switching from puppy food to adult food at 6 months of age, and, if you really want to, by giving vitamin C which helps calcium retention. Beside this, just remember that puppy needs time to grow up before he can be ask to perform strenuous exercises.
Personally, I prefer the plain old puppy food over the new improve "for large breed" formulas.