The Benefits Of Green Lipped Mussel For Dogs

This shellfish is native to New Zealand and is so named because of the green edges of its shell.

Green-lipped mussel is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), as well as antioxidants, so it has become popular as a supplement for both humans and dogs.

These nutrients have proven joint health benefits and other positive effects elsewhere in the body.

Green-lipped mussel (GLM) is gaining more recognition from pet owners due to its range of benefits for dogs of all ages along with no side effects that dog owners need to be worried about.

Yes, the great news is that dogs can have green-lipped mussels.

This supplement is perfectly safe for dogs of all ages when given correctly and as part of a balanced diet.

There are no known side effects to giving dogs GLM, but there are plenty of potential health benefits to be had.

Green-lipped mussels are a natural source of nutrients and good for dogs to consume in their daily diet.

Green-lipped mussels have no recorded side effects so dog owners can be confident that there are many benefits with little risk to their pooch.

There are a whole host of benefits of green-lipped mussels for dogs including:

Health conditions with chronic inflammation such as joint disease, heart disease and skin complaints, will all benefit from green-lipped mussel supplementation.

Natural compounds found in GLM, such as eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), help to reduce inflammatory responses in the body.

This may mean your pet is less reliant on pain-killing medications, especially in the early stages of joint disease.

Green-lipped mussels are naturally rich in amino acids such as GLM. 

GLM is a rich source of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as chondroitin sulphate which help with the repair of joint cartilage.

 Cartilage acts as a shock-absorbing cushion within your dog’s joints, so keeping it healthy can help reduce arthritic pain and improve mobility. Check out some other natural ingredients for healthy joints.

Green-lipped mussel provides a great source of essential vitamins and minerals which are crucial to keeping your pet’s immune system in good working order.

Containing zinc, iron, selenium and B-vitamins, green lipped mussel will help your dog to fight off illness and be full of energy.

The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and zinc found in green-lipped mussel can help to improve skin and coat condition. This is essential for dogs with underlying skin issues like environmental allergies.

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid(DHA), support brain function which is important for all animals but especially those elderly dogs at risk of cognitive decline.

These have also been proven to help support a healthy heart.

It is best to follow manufacturer feeding guidelines as formulations will vary. Some manufacturers use the whole mussel, whereas some use green-lipped mussel extract.

Recommended doses will vary depending on the size of your dog so ensure you are confident the dose is suitable for your dog's needs.

Dogs can have shellfish allergies, just as some humans do, but this is rare. 

Any time you offer a new food supplement or ingredient; you should monitor your pet for any side effects.

If your dog has a diagnosed shellfish allergy, then you must avoid giving green-lipped mussel altogether or speak to your vet for advice.

There are no contraindications with your dog receiving green-lipped mussel while on medication.

In fact, green-lipped mussel is frequently used alongside traditionally prescribed drugs as part of a multi-modal approach to arthritis management. Speak to your vet for more information.