Green Lipped Mussels

Green lipped mussels are well-known for helping dogs with arthritis and other joint issues. 

Here’s a look at why green lipped mussels for dogs are such a popular choice with dog owners. 

What Are Green Lipped Mussels?

Originating from the pristine waters of New Zealand, green lipped mussels (Perna canaliculus) are bivalve mollusks named for their vibrant emerald green shell edges. 

But what really sets these mussels apart from their counterparts is their unique composition. They’re a natural source of essential fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants.

These all play a role in giving green lipped mussels some of their many benefits.

Green Lipped Mussel Benefits For Dogs

Green-lipped mussels are often praised for their remarkable nutritional profile. Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest green lipped mussel benefits for dogs:

Anti-Inflammatory Actions

Many people give their dogs NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to help reduce joint inflammation and pain from arthritis.

NSAIDs are COX inhibitors that help reduce inflammation. They work by preventing an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) from making chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that promote inflammation in the body.

NSAIDs do work quite well to reduce pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis. But NSAIDs have some risky side effects, including ulcers and liver and kidney damage.  NSAIDs have also been shown to damage cartilage … so, ironically, long term use can make your dog’s joints worse. 

Green lipped mussels are also COX inhibitors … but without the dangerous side effects. So they offer the same anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits … but safely.

One study on dogs showed that dogs taking green lipped mussel had a largetimprovement in pain and mobility compared to the placebo group. And nearly 75% of them didn’t need additional pain meds when they took green lipped mussels. 

Cartilage-Boosting Chondroitin

Unlike NSAIDs that damage cartilage, green lipped mussels help build healthy cartilage. 

Green lipped mussels are a natural source of chondroitin, a key component of cartilage that supports joint health and mobility. Chondroitin is known for its ability to promote joint lubrication and cushioning, reducing friction between bones and preventing wear and tear. 

Your dog’s joints live inside a capsule that's a bit like a water balloon. The pressure changes to act like a shock absorber for your dog’s joints, protecting them from damage.

Chondroitin strengthens the joint capsules so they can hold more water … meaning better shock absorption and more protection for your dog’s joints.  And green lipped mussels keep working after you stop giving them to your dog ,,, in some cases for as long as a month.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids For Joint Health and Mobility

The high content of omega-3 fatty acids in green lipped mussels is a key factor in its joint-supporting abilities

Green lipped mussels have 90 different fatty acids … but they’re especially rich in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce joint inflammation, providing potent relief to dogs suffering from conditions like arthritis.

Many dog owners give fish oil for its EPA and DHA benefits. Fish oil is a potent source of these fatty acids, but it doesn't have the wide range of other beneficial fatty acids as green lipped mussels. Another drawback to fish oil is that high demand is depleting the oceans of fish. But green lipped mussels are sustainably grown and ocean friendly. 

How To Give Your Dog Green Lipped Mussels

The easiest way to give your dog green lipped mussels is as a freeze-dried powder that you mix into food. Freeze-drying doesn’t use heat in processing, so it preserves all of the nutrients and health benefits of green lipped mussels.

But there’s one caution. Because the fat in green lipped mussels is so important for joint health, make sure you buy a product with at least 6% fat. If it’s lower, it could mean the manufacturer stripped out the fat to sell separately. 

Green-Lipped Mussel Risks, Cautions, And Side Effects

Green lipped mussel supplements are generally safe for dogs. Here are a few things to be aware of. 

Always buy green lipped mussels sourced from reputable manufacturers known for their quality and commitment to purity. Specifically, you’ll want to look for sustainably harvested New Zealand green lipped mussels, as they are known to have the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.

There's the potential for mild digestive upset in some dogs when taking green lipped mussels. This could show up as loose stools, gas, or vomiting. Most dogs digest this supplement well, but if you notice any digestive issues after starting the supplement, lowering the dose will usually alleviate the problem, and then you can increase it gradually as your dog’s digestive system adjusts.

Finally, there is a possibility that some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to shellfish. If you notice any signs of an adverse reaction, such as itching, rashes, or gastrointestinal distress, stop giving green lipped mussels, and consult your holistic vet if necessary.

How Much Green Lipped Mussel Can Dogs Have?

Green lipped mussel powders are often sold specifically for dogs, and come with recommended dosage instructions on the product label. These instructions often use your dog's weight as a reference point, so you should follow them and dose accordingly, along with any other variables the manufacturer recommends. 

There are some other general guidelines when it comes to green lipped mussel dosage for dogs:

1. Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a lower dosage and gradually increase it over a few days. This approach allows you to assess your dog's tolerance and ensure he doesn't experience any digestive upset.
2. Dose Based on Weight: A common dosage recommendation is around 20 to 40 mg of green-lipped mussel extract per pound of body weight per day. For example, if your dog weighs 50 pounds, a typical starting dose could be 1000 mg (50 lbs x 20 mg).
3. Watch Your Dog's Response: Keep a close eye on your pup's behavior, mobility, and overall wellbeing while giving green lipped mussels. If you notice any changes or concerns, consult your veterinarian for further guidance.
4. Quality Matters: Ensure you choose high-quality green-lipped mussel supplements specifically formulated for dogs. Be careful with human supplements, which might contain additional ingredients that aren’t suitable for dogs.

By incorporating green-lipped mussel into your dog's diet, you're providing him with essential nutrients that support healthy cartilage and lubricate the joints, reducing friction and promoting smooth movement. This can lead to increased joint flexibility and overall improved mobility, allowing your pup to enjoy a more active and comfortable lifestyle.