Canine Joint Supplements for Dogs

Equisetum Arvense Oil, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Horse Tail Extract, Horse Tail Oil

Epiitalis® is a proprietary plant oil extract derived from the seeds of the plant Biota orientalis, standardised for use as a nutraceutical ingredient. In dog food manufacturing, it is supplied as a formulated oil rather than in its raw plant form. Epiitalis® is included for its role in supporting joint health and mobility in dogs, primarily due to its reported anti-inflammatory properties. When used at recommended levels, it is considered safe, with no known adverse effects reported in dogs.

Epiitalis® is included in dog food formulations primarily for its purported joint health benefits, offering a functional advantage for dogs while also allowing manufacturers to differentiate their products in a competitive market. Its use is driven by both the potential health benefit to dogs and the marketing appeal of featuring a proprietary ingredient.

Sea Ear, Ormer, Haliotis Spp., Muttonfish

Abalone is a marine mollusc sourced from ocean waters, valued for its rich nutrient profile. As an animal-derived ingredient, it provides high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and beneficial minerals such as zinc and selenium. In pet food, abalone is used in its natural, whole form to support muscle maintenance and overall health, offering a premium, palatable protein source for pets.

Abalone is included as a premium protein source to enhance the product’s market appeal and justify a higher price point. Its presence also serves as a label-friendly ingredient to attract consumers seeking novel or gourmet options for their pets.

Perna Canaliculus, New Zealand Green Mussel, Greenshell Mussel, Kuku

Green lipped mussel is a marine animal ingredient sourced from the coastal waters of New Zealand. It is primarily included in pet food for its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which support joint health and reduce inflammation. Green lipped mussel is used in its natural, whole form, ensuring optimal nutrient availability and bioactivity for pets.

Green lipped mussel is included as a functional ingredient to provide natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids and joint-supporting nutrients, supporting product differentiation and marketing claims related to joint health. Its presence also appeals to consumers seeking premium or holistic pet food formulations.

Shark Cartilage, Chondroitin Sulphate (from Chondrichthyes), Chondrichthyes Cartilage, Chondroitin Sulphate (from Shark)

Marine cartilage is a structural tissue derived from the skeletons of marine animals such as sharks and rays. In dog food manufacturing, it is typically supplied as dried, ground powder or hydrolysed extract. Marine cartilage is a source of collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility in dogs. When included at appropriate levels, it is generally considered safe; however, excessive intake may contribute to imbalances in mineral intake or pose a risk of contamination with heavy metals if not properly sourced.

Marine cartilage is included in dog food formulations primarily as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin, which can support joint health in dogs, while also allowing manufacturers to utilise by-products from the seafood industry efficiently. Its use benefits both the nutritional profile of the product and the cost-effectiveness of production.