Researchers tested whether a special protein powder made from animal plasma could help older dogs with arthritis feel better. Twenty-four senior dogs with joint problems were given either regular food or food mixed with this protein supplement for six weeks. Dogs eating the supplement showed signs of less pain, better protein digestion, and less inflammation in their bodies. Their joints also appeared healthier based on blood tests. While these results are promising, more research is needed before vets widely recommend this supplement for all arthritic dogs.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether adding a special protein powder (made from dried animal plasma) to dog food could reduce arthritis pain and improve joint health in older dogs
  • Who participated: Twenty-four senior dogs (all over 7 years old) that had been diagnosed with arthritis through X-rays and showed signs of joint problems
  • Key finding: After six weeks, dogs eating the protein supplement showed less limping, better protein digestion, and blood tests showed less inflammation and better protection against cell damage compared to dogs eating regular food
  • What it means for you: This supplement may help senior dogs with arthritis feel better and move more comfortably, but pet owners should talk to their vet before trying it, as this is early-stage research on a small group of dogs

The Research Details

This was a controlled experiment where researchers divided 24 senior dogs with arthritis into two equal groups. One group ate their normal diet, while the other group ate the same diet but with 4% of a special protein powder mixed in (the powder replaced some chicken meal). Both groups ate this way for 42 days (six weeks). The researchers measured several things: how well the dogs digested protein, levels of protective and harmful substances in their blood, and how much the dogs limped when walking.

The study was “randomized,” meaning dogs were randomly assigned to each group to make sure the groups were similar at the start. This helps ensure that any differences found were due to the supplement, not other factors. The researchers also checked the dogs’ joint fluid (the slippery liquid inside joints) to see if the supplement affected it.

This research approach is important because it uses a control group (dogs without the supplement) to compare against. This lets researchers know whether improvements are actually from the supplement or would have happened anyway. By measuring multiple things—digestion, blood markers, and actual limping—the study gives a fuller picture of how the supplement might work. Testing the supplement for six weeks is long enough to see real changes but short enough to be practical.

Strengths: The study used a control group for fair comparison, randomly assigned dogs to groups, and measured multiple health markers. The sample size of 24 dogs is reasonable for this type of study. Limitations: The study only lasted six weeks, so we don’t know if benefits continue longer. Only 24 dogs were tested, so results might not apply to all dogs. The study didn’t include a placebo group (where dogs got a fake supplement), so some improvement could be from owners’ expectations. More research with larger groups and longer timeframes would strengthen these findings.

What the Results Show

The most important finding was that dogs eating the protein supplement limped significantly less after six weeks compared to dogs eating regular food. This suggests the supplement actually helped reduce arthritis pain and stiffness.

Blood tests showed that dogs on the supplement had better antioxidant protection—think of antioxidants as the body’s defense system against damage. Specifically, a protective substance called superoxide dismutase increased, while a harmful substance called malondialdehyde decreased. These changes suggest the supplement helped protect the dogs’ cells from damage.

The supplement also reduced inflammation markers in the blood. Inflammation is the body’s swelling response, and too much inflammation makes arthritis worse. Dogs on the supplement had lower levels of inflammatory chemicals (interleukin-1β and metalloproteinase-13) and higher levels of anti-inflammatory chemicals (interleukin-10).

Additionally, the supplement improved how well dogs digested protein, which is important for maintaining muscle and joint health as dogs age.

Tests of the fluid inside the dogs’ joints showed that a substance called metalloproteinase-2 (which breaks down joint tissue) was lower in dogs eating the supplement. This is important because excessive breakdown of joint tissue is a key problem in arthritis. The supplement appeared to slow this damaging process. These joint fluid changes support the theory that the supplement works by protecting joint tissue from damage.

This is one of the first studies specifically testing this type of protein supplement for dog arthritis. Previous research has shown that animal plasma contains immune-supporting compounds and is highly digestible, but few studies have tested it for joint health in dogs. Other arthritis studies in dogs have tested different supplements like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids with mixed results. This study adds to the growing evidence that nutritional approaches may help manage arthritis symptoms in senior dogs.

The study only lasted six weeks, so we don’t know if benefits continue, improve, or fade over months or years. Only 24 dogs were tested—a larger study would give more confidence in the results. The study didn’t include a placebo group, so some improvement might come from owners’ expectations or natural variation. All dogs were diagnosed with arthritis, so results may not apply to younger dogs or dogs without arthritis. The study didn’t track whether dogs had other health conditions that might affect results. Different dog breeds and sizes were likely included, which could affect how the supplement works.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, the protein supplement shows promise for senior dogs with arthritis (moderate confidence level—more research is needed). If your senior dog has arthritis, discuss this supplement with your veterinarian. They can determine if it’s appropriate for your dog’s specific situation and recommend proper dosing. This supplement should not replace other arthritis treatments your vet has recommended, but may work alongside them. Start with the dosage used in the study (4% of diet) and monitor your dog for any changes in digestion or other side effects.

Senior dogs (7+ years old) with diagnosed arthritis are the main group this research applies to. Large breed dogs, which are prone to arthritis, might especially benefit. Dogs with digestive issues might benefit from the improved protein digestion. However, this research doesn’t apply to young dogs without arthritis, dogs with certain kidney or liver conditions (consult your vet), or dogs with allergies to animal plasma products. Pregnant or nursing dogs should not use this supplement without veterinary approval.

In this study, changes appeared within three weeks (blood markers improved), and limping noticeably decreased by six weeks. Most dog owners would likely need to give the supplement for at least 4-6 weeks to see meaningful improvement in their dog’s movement and comfort. Some dogs might show faster improvement, while others might take longer. Consistent daily feeding is important for best results.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track your senior dog’s mobility weekly using a simple 1-10 limping scale (1 = severe limping, 10 = normal movement). Also note energy level, willingness to play, and ability to climb stairs or jump on furniture. Take photos or videos weekly to compare movement over time.
  • Set a daily reminder to add the protein supplement to your dog’s food at the same time each day. Create a simple checklist to mark off each day the supplement is given. Take weekly notes on your dog’s activity level and any changes in how they move or play.
  • Check in every two weeks to review your dog’s progress. After six weeks, compare your notes and videos to see if limping has decreased and activity has improved. If you see improvement, continue the supplement and monitor monthly. If no change appears after 6-8 weeks, discuss with your vet whether to continue or try a different approach. Keep records to share with your veterinarian at check-ups.

This research is preliminary and based on a small study of 24 dogs over six weeks. These findings should not replace professional veterinary care or prescribed arthritis treatments. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement for your dog, especially if your dog is taking medications, has existing health conditions, or is pregnant/nursing. Individual dogs may respond differently to supplements. This summary is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Your veterinarian is the best source for personalized recommendations for your dog’s specific health needs.