There’s nothing quite like the joy of owning a dog. From playful puppy energy to the quiet companionship of their senior years, dogs bring warmth and happiness to our lives. Joint issues can begin to set in with age and injury, leading many to turn towards dog joint supplements. The problem is, it can be hard to tell what’s what when they’re all marketing themselves as the best choice.
We thought we’d step in and give our two cents, so today we’re taking a look at a very popular choice: Zesty Paws.
If you’re looking for a quick answer then we do not recommend this product. It’s pretty good all things considered, but there’s better out there that offer a more comprehensive (and natural) formula. Take FetchAgain for example, which is tasty to dogs without any additives, and offers fast acting, long lasting joint support for dogs of any size.
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Pros & Cons
Pros:
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Widely available and well-known
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Dogs enjoy the flavor and soft chew texture
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Offers a variety of targeted supplements (joint, calming, digestion, etc.)
Cons:
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Formulas are often split across multiple products (no all-in-one solution)
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Contains filler ingredients and added flavoring
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Lower doses of critical ingredients like MSM or CoQ10
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Lacks multifunctional blends that target full-body health
Ingredients & Effectiveness
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Zesty Paws includes these well-known joint support ingredients, though often in moderate doses. Effective, but not extraordinary.
MSM
Present in some formulas, but often not the highly bioavailable OptiMSM found in FetchAgain, which means slower or reduced absorption.
Hemp Extract (in select formulas)
Marketed as a calming joint support booster, but clinical evidence is mixed when it comes to efficacy for joint function in dogs.
Flavor Additives
Zesty Paws chews are flavored with natural and artificial enhancers to boost palatability, but this may not sit well with sensitive dogs.
Why FetchAgain Is the Smarter Choice
Zesty Paws has made a name for itself with a comprehensive marketing campaign for what is ultimately a “flavor-first” formula. Instead, we’d recommend trying to find something that is enjoyable for your pet whilst offering comprehensive joint support.
There are shared ingredients, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, showing that Zesty Paws have clearly done their research. However, the difference is in the dosing here, with FetchAgain offering much more in this department. They both also offer MSM, but here the difference is much more pronounced, as FetchAgain have provided the most highly bioavailable from: OptiMSM. This is just a fancy way of saying your dog will have an easier time absorbing those all important compounds.
At this point Zesty Paws steers away from clinical data, using hemp extract. It’s a bit of a hip ingredient, or at least it was a few years ago, but the data is too limited to say whether it really offers joint support. FetchAgain goes above and beyond though, offering not only unparalleled joint support, but overall support for your dog's health with probiotics, a blend of digestive enzymes, and 13 essential vitamins to boost your puppy’s vitality.
When it comes to value, nothing comes close to FetchAgain at the moment. It’s really stormed into the market at the top spot and we think it’ll take some time for another product to top it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are joint supplements safe for dogs?
Most joint supplements are generally safe for dogs, especially when they are made with reputable, veterinarian-recommended ingredients. However, as with any dietary supplement or medication, some dogs may experience mild side effects, such as an upset stomach. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, particularly if your dog has existing health conditions or is on other medications.
When is the right time to begin joint supplements for dogs?
Veterinarians often recommend introducing joint supplements before your dog begins to show signs of stiffness or discomfort. Preventative supplementation is especially beneficial for larger breeds, active dogs, or those genetically predisposed to joint issues. Beginning supplements in the early or middle stages of adulthood may help delay the progression of joint deterioration and maintain mobility as your dog ages.
How do joint supplements benefit a dog’s joints?
Joint supplements support joint health by delivering vital nutrients that aid in cartilage maintenance, reduce inflammation, and promote natural tissue repair. Glucosamine and chondroitin help restore and protect cartilage, while omega-3 fatty acids work to minimize inflammation that causes joint pain. MSM contributes to connective tissue strength and may ease discomfort. Combined, these ingredients can lead to improved movement and comfort, especially for aging or arthritic dogs.
How long does it take to see results from joint supplements?
Joint supplements typically provide gradual improvement rather than immediate relief. Most pet owners start to notice visible changes in their dog’s mobility and comfort after about four to six weeks of consistent use. Results may vary depending on the specific product, the dog’s condition, and individual response.
Can puppies take joint supplements safely?
While joint supplements are not usually necessary for puppies, there are exceptions. Puppies with hereditary joint concerns such as hip dysplasia, or those recovering from orthopedic injuries or surgery, may benefit from early supplementation. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving joint supplements to a young or growing dog, as their nutritional needs differ significantly from those of adults.
What Should I Look Out for When Purchasing a Dog Joint Supplement?
Selecting the right joint supplement for your dog is an important step in supporting their mobility, comfort, and long-term joint function. With so many products available, it's essential to know what factors matter most—especially when it comes to ingredients, product integrity, and manufacturer reliability.
Ingredient Quality and Proper Dosage
The first thing to consider is the ingredient list and whether each component is included at effective levels. The most beneficial supplements typically feature well-researched compounds like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), and omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. These ingredients are known to promote joint health by protecting cartilage, easing inflammation, and improving flexibility. Hyaluronic acid is another helpful addition, as it supports joint fluid and lubrication. Keep in mind that the presence of these ingredients alone isn’t enough—they need to be present in clinically relevant dosages to be truly effective.
Manufacturing Practices and Product Integrity
It’s important to choose a supplement produced in facilities that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) or are certified by third-party quality assurance organizations. Products made in countries with strict manufacturing guidelines, like the United States or members of the European Union, are generally more trustworthy. Clear, transparent labeling is another positive indicator; you should be able to see exactly what’s in the supplement and in what amounts. Avoid products that are vague or use proprietary blends without disclosing the specific ingredient quantities.
Veterinary Approval and Scientific Validation
When a supplement is formulated or recommended by veterinary professionals, it adds a layer of confidence in its quality and safety. Some products are supported by clinical trials or research studies, which helps validate their claims. Even if formal studies are not available, supplements that have undergone veterinary review or have clinical backing are usually more dependable in terms of performance and safety.
Taste and Administration
Effectiveness doesn't matter much if your dog won’t take the supplement. Consider whether the supplement comes in a form that’s easy and enjoyable for your dog to consume—options like flavored chews, powders, or liquids often make daily administration simpler. If your dog resists taking the supplement, consistency can become a challenge, which may limit the results you see.
Brand Reputation and User Experience
Finally, take some time to explore reviews and the overall reputation of the product. Consistent, positive feedback from other dog owners can provide helpful insight into how well a supplement performs in real-world use. However, it’s best to view customer reviews as just one part of your decision-making process. For the most informed choice, combine this feedback with advice from your veterinarian, especially if your dog has unique needs or preexisting conditions.
Verdict
Zesty Paws is an acceptable option for dog owners who want to dip their toes into supplements, especially if you're just looking to support joint health in a single area. However, if you're looking for a more powerful, more complete, and better-value supplement, FetchAgain is clearly the better pick.
In a competitive market, FetchAgain stands out for its holistic formula, premium ingredients, and outstanding value. Whether your dog is aging, recovering, or just starting to show stiffness, FetchAgain is the supplement that will help them stay playful, active, and full of life for years to come.