Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs: A Guide

Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs: A Guide

  • Kirsten Thornhill - 12.05.2021

Green Lipped Mussels for Canines

You may be thinking ‘huh’? Mussels for dog? Well, you better believe it! Green lipped mussels are quickly gaining popularity in the world of canine health. The more you rabbit hole into these super nutritious mussels, the more you’ll love them! Let me explain. 


Dogs often experience signs and symptoms including tiredness, lameness, or reluctance to rise up every now and then. This could be due to a multitude of reasons, including joint stiffness or swelling. 


Many experts are now even saying that green lipped mussels might hold promise for supporting healthy bone and joint function as well as possibly even helping occasional joint pain and discomfort in canines alike. 


What are Green Lipped Mussels?


Green lipped mussel, GLM for short, is an all-natural whole food. These little sea creatures can provide more than a tasty bite. This type of mussel is a species known as Perna Canaliculus, it is native to the New Zealand coastal waters. 

 

 

So why the heck are they called green lipped mussels?! This type of mussel has been known for its wide array of benefits by New Zealanders for years and years. However, they have only been discovered in the western world as of recently. You can most likely find these nutrient-saturated species as a powdered extract or supplement form. You can also have them raw too!


Are Green Lipped Mussels Nutritious?


Since this type of mussel is a natural filter of sea-water it retains large amounts of minerals and nutrients. The green lipped mussel is well-known to contain high levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, omega fatty acids, as well as other vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids. Talk about a hole in one for canine nutrition!


Whether or not your dog gets their daily dose of these mussels in powdered form, oil form, or pure raw seafood, they are sure to thank you in the long run!


What are Fatty Acids?


When you think of omega fatty acids, you probably think of fish oil pills, right? Well good news here - green lipped mussels are packed with healthy omega fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acids that can do wonders for your pup! Green lipped mussels are not only high in eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), but also are high in eicosapentaenoic (EPA). ETA, for instance, has been continuously talked about as a lead player in supporting a healthy inflammatory response. 


What about Chondroitin and Glucosamine?


Like we briefly mentioned above, green lipped mussels are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and it’s also loaded with chondroitin and glucosamine, to support healthy joint and bone function. 

 

Glucosamine has been thought to help the body in boosting its ability to help repair damaged tissue and cartilage. This “padding” between joints is needed to soften the harsh impact our dog endures with daily movement. This substance is usually found as glucosamine hydrochloride or glucosamine sulfate. 


It is often paired with chondroitin, which is another substance used with the same goal of improving joint and cartilage health. Chondroitin is usually found in shark or cow cartilage, however, green lipped mussels produce both glucosamine and chondroitin, 100% naturally. 


The Importance of Vitamins and Minerals 


Green lipped mussels contain a powerful combination of vitamins and minerals that are great for your pup’s health and well-being. Green lipped mussels come packed with the following natural ingredients: 


  • Vitamin C 
  • Vitamin E 
  • Copper 
  • Iodine
  • Manganese
  • Selenium 

 

These nutritional components of the mussels makes them highly desired, having your pupper’s licking their chompers in a hurry!

What are the Health Benefits of Green Lipped Mussels?


Supplementing green lipped mussel into your pup’s diet may boost their health as well as the following:


  • Helps maintain healthy joint and bone function
  • Helps build strong, sturdy bones
  • Supports connective tissue growth
  • Enhances joint and bone health

 

Green lipped mussel provides nutrients necessary for bone and joint health. 


How Do I Feed My Dog Green Lipped Mussel?


It may seem overwhelming to think of ordering mussels all the way from New Zealand. Ha. Fortunately enough, you won’t have to go that far to get those nutrient-dense mussels. 


Like we mentioned above, green lipped mussels come in different supplement forms that are curated for your four-legged friend’s needs. 


You can find green lipped mussel powder (GLM powder) to add to your dog’s food. The nutrients of these mussels are extracted into a powdered form, which may be just as good as the raw stuff!

 

 

A combination of products are also an option. These may normally contain green lipped mussel extract alongside other healthy natural ingredients that have the necessary nutrients your dog needs to boost the health of their joints. 


GLM can be found in special dog treats too! I mean, what dog doesn’t love treats!? Treats or chews often combine the nutrients of the mussel extract with the yummy taste your dog would expect from a scrumptious doggy treat!


What are the Best Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs?


Now that you’ve got a handle on the great green lipped mussels, you’re ready to track some sea creatures down for your doggo! Here’s a quick guide for finding top notch GLM products. 


Read the labels! Make sure that your GLM product has been lab tested! You want the product to be a 100% natural, organic option, ensuring that your doggo only receives the best of the best. 


Your effort is well worth it when it comes to finding a high quality product, your pup only deserves the absolute best!


What Green Lipped Mussel Dosage Do I Give my Dog?


So how much GLM do I give my dog? Experts have suggested that the recommended dosage will vary based on your dog’s size and other factors. The dosage should be mentioned or described on the product too. Try to keep the recommended dosage as closely as possible, ensuring that your dog gets the most out of the GLM product. 

 

It’s not too bad of an idea to also look at what the manufacturer suggests too. We highly encourage talking with your holistic veterinarian prior to starting fido on any new supplements or daily regimes. 


Are Green Lipped Mussels Eco Friendly?


The green lipped mussels are very friendly to the environment! They are found in the waters off the New Zealand Coast. Ever since they first made their way to the West, the supply and demand has grown immensely. The mussels are grown on ropes that are suspended from rafts in the open waters. The great thing about this mussel is that they don’t need to fed special foods, as they receive all they need from the open waters. 

 

 

This type of growing process is known as aquaculture, which has no harmful impact on the environment. The mussels eat plankton, which thrives in these ocean waters. Phytoplankton drifts in and out of the ocean, naturally. This process combines the energy of sunlight with inorganic chemicals, forming energy-rich products, such as omega-3 fatty acids. 


Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs: Final Thoughts

 

Daily activity and exercise forms an integral part of your dog’s life and general well-being. Not only does it help keep you and your furry friend close, but it also helps to stretch and protect your pupper’s joints and bone health. 


A daily exercise routine is a great way to keep your dog’s weight under control, not to mention, keeping them happy and stimulated. 

 

The green lipped mussels are high in vitamins and nutrients, omega fatty acids, and may be a nutritional powerhouse for your four-legged friend. You can feel good knowing that GLM are an organic option for holistic health for your pup, in addition to them being environmentally friendly. That’s a major win in our book!

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