The 7 Best Horse Joint Supplement in 2022 – What to Expect?

A million supplements are on the market for horses claiming to help your horse perform and look great. The problem is that for the longest time, we haven’t had any clear information on whether or not many of these supplements do anything — or if it’s just another expensive item we can feed to our horses.

Fortunately, some scientific studies are available now that back up the claim for joint supplements, and the good news is that they do work. Some accessories are going to be better for your horse than others. We’ll talk about why that is important to look for the best joint supplement for horses.

In a hurry? This is our Winner!

Our Top Pick
In a hurry? This is our Winner!
9.4/10 Our Score

Nutramax Cosequin ASU Broad Spectrum Formula

  • Includes 10,000 mg of MSM
  • Includes 2100 mg of ASU
  • People have noticed a difference in their horses within four weeks

What Age Should I Start Feeding a Joint Supplement?

While every horse can benefit from a joint supplement, there are three stages in your horse’s life where they are particularly important.

  • Early growing and training years – During the weanling, yearling, and even two-year-old stage is when your horse is growing and developing. This prime growing time is when they can use the support from a joint supplement. Good joint health at this time in life will help ensure they can withstand the effects of training and set them up for their performance years.
  • Performance years – For some horses, this is early in life, while others may not perform until they are in their adult years. For instance, many Quarter Horses are started young for futurities, while many jumping horses don’t start performing until they are six, seven, or a little older. Good joint health during their performance years will keep them happy during their senior years.
  • Senior years – Depending on how hard a horse’s performance, life will dictate whether or not they need joint support in their senior and retirement years. Some horses still perform in their senior years and can use the support, while others may be retired to pasture and may not need a supplement unless they have mobility issues.

Our Favorite Horse Joint Supplements in 2022

Image Product Technical Spec Price
Our Top Pick

Nutramax Cosequin ASU Equine Powder

Nutramax Cosequin ASU Equine Powder
  • Brand: Nutramax Laboratories
  • Specific Uses for the product: Active
  • Form: Powder
  • Age Range Description: All Life Stages
Check Price
Nutramax Cosequin Equine Optimized Nutramax Cosequin Equine Optimized
  • Brand: Nutramax Laboratories
  • Special Ingredients: Methylsulfonylmethane
  • Specific Uses: Joints
  • Flavor: Unflavored
  • Color: Default
Check Price
Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & Coat Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & Coat
  • Brand: Horse Health
  • Weight: 8 Pounds
  • Dimensions: ‎9.75 x 9.75 x 10.5 inch
Check Price
RICHDEL 784299540507 Legacy Pellets Joint Support RICHDEL 784299540507 Legacy Pellets Joint Support
  • Brand: RICHDEL
  • Item Form: Pellet
  • Breed Recommendation: All Breed Sizes
  • Flavor: Vegetable
Check Price
Equithrive Joint (2 lb) Equithrive Joint (2 lb)
  • Brand: Equithrive
  • Weight:2 Pounds
  • Dimensions ‏: ‎ 4.9 x 4.9 x 7 inches
Check Price
Ramard Total Joint Care Performance Supplements For Horses Ramard Total Joint Care Performance Supplements For Horses
  • Brand: Ramard
  • Weight: 1.12 lb
  • Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
Check Price
GLC 5500 Powder (2 lbs.) GLC 5500 Powder (2 lbs.)
  • Brand: GLC 5500
  • Weight: 2 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 3.9 x 4.1 x 6.1 inch
Check Price

What to Consider When Buying a Joint Supplement for Horses

Ingredients will be the key when purchasing the best horse joint supplement. Some supplements work better for some horses than others. Finding the right ingredients that work for your horse is often a trial and error process. The best joint supplement for barrel horses may not be the best senior horse joint supplement.

Here are the key ingredients to look for:

Glucosamine – Glucosamine is the most studied ingredient. It comes in two forms: glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. They are both effective forms. Glucosamine is important in the horse’s connective tissues’ basic building blocks, including cartilage. This is an important ingredient to have for young horses. It is also effective in relieving pain, so that it can be great for hard-performing horses or seniors with arthritis. There is a loading period with this ingredient, so you may feed a higher dose for a week or two and then lower the dosage once it is in the horse’s system.

Chondroitin – Most glucosamine products also have chondroitin, as they work better together. Chondroitin sulfate is another important aspect of cartilage, bone, and connective tissues. It has been reported that this ingredient helps the movement of horses, and they appear more “fluid.”

Hyaluronic Acid – Hyaluronic acid is important for the fluid in the joints. It is particularly good at controlling heat, swelling, and pain. It can be injected by a veterinarian in particular areas but also be included in a powder form for feed through supplements. A small amount of this ingredient goes a long way in most horses.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) – Nearly everyone in the horse industry has heard of MSM. It is an effective anti-inflammatory, but the long-term effects have not been determined. One scientific study in horses with hock arthritis showed that a dose of at least 20,000 mg per day was required to be effective, but that is a huge dose, and you won’t find it in most joint supplements. It is often added in lower amounts to joint supplements. You can also purchase pure MSM supplements that can be used to determine if they will affect a particular horse.

Collagen – Collagen is hydrolyzed prior to being included in a joint supplement. Collagen is a protein that forms the structure of all connective tissues, cartilage, and bone. It is purified and broken down so the horse’s body can absorb it in a supplement. There are no equine studies on this particular ingredient, but it may improve joint function and pain.

Herbs – There is a long list of herbs that are typically included in joint supplements. These herbs are often anti-inflammatory, but there’s no guarantee that enough is included to have an effect. These herbs are usually included because they help with the pain. Popular herbs include Devil’s Claw, Yucca, and Boswellia.

Minerals – Manganese, copper, and zinc are minerals that are typically included in supplements as well. Most horses receive more manganese in their diet than necessary; however, they are often deficient in copper and zinc. Copper is important to connective tissue formation, so young horses mustn’t be deficient. Both copper and zinc are also important to the horse’s overall antioxidant enzyme system.

Avocado and Soy Unsaponifiables – These ingredients are extracted and purified by a special procedure that prevents the body from digestion and absorption. They have been shown to protect against cartilage breakdown, so they are more important in sustaining horses versus helping a current need. They are also slow-acting ingredients, so don’t expect to see results quickly.

Silica – This ingredient is found in the sand most commonly but can also be found in plants. It is a trace mineral that gives plants structure. In the horse’s body, this ingredient is involved in forming articular cartilage and connective tissue. Research has found this an important supplement for young, growing horses.

Vitamin C – Horses make their own vitamin C, so it is important not to over to supplement. Too much vitamin C has the reverse effect and can cause deficiency.

Phenylalanine – This ingredient is an amino acid that helps preserve enzymes that block chronic pain. It is most commonly included in supplements for pain and arthritis in performance or senior horses.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These fatty acids are found in marine and plant oils. The most common method of getting these in a supplement is via flaxseed or linseed oil.

Top 7 Joint Supplement for Horses – Updated 2022 Reviews

Best-Horse-Joint-Supplements

#1) Nutramax Cosequin Equine Optimized with MSM

Nutramax Cosequin Equine OptimizedCosequin has long been known in the horse industry as a joint supplement. This version of Cosequin also includes MSM. As mentioned above, MSM is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

This is a cost-effective option to feed a well-known joint supplement with the added effects of MSM.

Featured Highlights:

  • Includes MSM
  • Apple-flavored powder that is added to daily feed
  • 84-day supply at one scoop per day
Pros
  • Utilizes Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate
  • One scoop includes 5,000 mg of MSM
  • Vet recommended
Cons
  • Primarily designed for aging horses

#2) Nutramax Cosequin ASU Equine Powder

Nutramax Cosequin ASU Equine PowderThe Nutramax Cosequin ASU version is veterinary strength and designed for a broad spectrum of horses. Not only does it include glucosamine and chondroitin, but it also includes the avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) for long-term joint protection.

This version also includes twice as much MSM as the Cosequin Equine Optimized with MSM product.

This product is designed to treat horses older with arthritic changes and help grow horses with the ASU’s added benefits.

Featured Highlights:

  • Includes 10,000 mg of MSM
  • Includes 2100 mg of ASU
  • Apple flavored powder
Pros
  • Has helped senior horses come off additional pain relievers
  • People have noticed a difference in their horses within four weeks
Cons
  • . While it does have double the dose of important ingredients, you have to feed 2 scoops to receive that amount.

#3) Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof Supplement & Coat

Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & CoatThe Horse Health Products Joint Combo is a great option for price-conscious horse owners who want to get a bang for their buck. This product includes ingredients to support the joints, feet, and coat.

This product includes glucosamine HCL, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM. It also includes biotin for the hooves and omega-fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

This product does require an initial loading dose of 3 scoops per day for 3-4 weeks. It is then fed at 2 scoops per day for maintenance.

Featured Highlights:

  • Additional important ingredients include biotin, zinc, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
  • Apple flavored pellet
  • Available in two sizes
Pros
  • Supports joints, hooves and coat
  • Includes MSM and collagen
  • For all ages of horses
Cons
  • Contains lower dosages per ounce of MSM compared to Cosequin’s products

#4) RICHDEL Legacy Pellets for Senior Horses Joint Support

RICHDEL 784299540507 Legacy Pellets Joint SupportAlthough horses can develop joint problems at any age, senior horses are especially susceptible. Feeding your horse these RICHDEL Legacy Pellets will help to ensure his joints are fully supported, promoting more cushioning and less discomfort.

This pellet is easy to administer because it has no added flavor and blends well with the horse’s feed. You spread it over your horse’s hay or on top of their feed.

Although this is a targeted vitamin joint supplement for senior horses, it can be administered to horses of all ages. This five-pound bucket will last around one month if you feed your horse two scoops a day.

It includes a blend of glucosamine HCL, yucca, vitamin E, vitamin C, ester C, chondroitin sulfate, and yeast. These RICHDEL pellets support a horse’s natural joint cushioning by increasing cartilage production and protecting the cartilage pads between the joints.

If your horse has developed a hoof drag because of painful joints, adding this pellet to his feed can make a difference. You will begin to notice positive changes in your horse’s gait in a short amount of time.

Highlighted Features:

  • Although targeted for seniors, it is appropriate for horses of all ages since it protects the joints
  • Features a blend of powerful antioxidants and glucosamine, which have been proven to help joint padding
  • The five-pound bucket will last a month for most horses
Pros
  • Smells like sweet feed and horses will eat it easily
  • It helps to cushion the joints by promoting cartilage growth
  • Stops the pain for seniors who have developed arthritic conditions
Cons
  • Is not available in more than one size

#5) Equithrive Joint supplement Formula

Equithrive Joint (2 lb)This joint formula is one of the first of its class because it was the first supplement to contain resveratrol. Resveratrol is an ingredient that has been studied for helping humans by limiting the inflammation response in joints and protecting cartilage.

Horses are prone to joint conditions, with some breeds suffering more than others. This powder can be sprinkled on top of your horse’s feed, blending in because of its mild flavor.

This joint horse formula contains 500 mg of resveratrol and 50 mg of hyaluronic acid per dose. Training horses should be fed this formula twice a day, while those who need a maintenance dose will do well with once-a-day administration.

This joint formula truly works to bring about pain relief. Horses that have arthritis in the hock areas will experience much better pain relief than even steroid injections can provide. This formula will quickly reduce stiffness and gait hesitation, regardless of the horse’s age.

Highlighted Features:

  • Features a blend of vitamins, including resveratrol and hyaluronic acid
  • Provides uncommon joint support for horses of all ages
  • Promotes new cartilage growth
Pros
  • The powder easily blends with all types of feed and hay
  • Shows positive results in a short amount of time
  • Even picky horses will eat it
Cons
  • Only available in one size

#6) Ramard Total Joint Care Performance Formula

Ramard Total Joint Care Performance Supplements For HorsesPerformance and workhorses need that extra boost for their joints because they are often placed under stress. With this formula, your horse’s performance will increase because he will no longer be in pain due to his joints rubbing together instead of being appropriately cushioned.

This harmonious blend of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients works together to stop the inflammation, which can lead to joint pain and progressive cartilage depletion.

Unlike some joint formulas, this formula protects all components, including the tendons, ligaments, synovial fluid, and other soft tissue structures.

Each container is 1.2 pounds and will provide joint support for one horse for up to a month. Each dose contains 6000 mg of glucosamine, 200 mg of hyaluronic acid, and 3000 mg of MSM. Feed your horse one 17-gram scoop of the powder a day. It can be added directly to the feed for ease of administration.

Highlighted Features:

  • It contains a perfect blend of nutrients for increased joint support
  • Easy to administer powder blends with feed
  • Available in multi-packs
Pros
  • Offers a thirty-day supply for one horse
  • Encourages cartilage growth and protects joint stability
  • Addresses the entire joint and all its components for increased performance without pain
Cons
  • Only available in one size, but can be purchased in multi-packs

#7) GLC 5500 Horse Powder

GLC 5500 Powder (2 lbs.)If your horse constantly seems to need injections in its joints, this could be the solution. This patented joint formula contains a blend of four types of glucosamine, ascorbate, chondroitin, and manganese. It is a joint supplement that encompasses the full spectrum of joint care.

This supplement is one of the only ones of its kind made of certified pure ingredients. It contains true chondroitin sulfate with no herbal or animal substitutes.

This joint formula has been proven to stop the enzymes that cause joint degeneration and to protect the joints of horses of all ages.

You will find this joint horse supplement to be ideal for athletic performance horses or older friends who have become more like family. It helps with healing and will improve the gait and performance of your horse, no matter the age.

This joint formula powder has no taste or obvious smell so it can be added to any hay or feed without issue. Even picky horses will consume it with ease. Depending on the horse, a two-pound supply will typically last around ninety days.

Trusted equine veterinarians recommend GLC 5500 because it offers the full spectrum of nutrients that replenish the joint cartilage cushioning and protects the joints from damage. Within a couple of weeks of use, changes are visible.

Featured Highlights:

  • Made with pure ingredients, including glucosamine and chondroitin
  • Easy-to-use, tasteless powder
  • It contains 907 doses per container
Pros
  • Easy to administer
  • Nourishes the entire joint, including all components
  • Signs of improvement can be seen in as few as a couple of weeks
Cons
  • Available in only one size, but concentrated formula lasts 90 days per horse

Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Supplements for Horses

Joint-Supplement-for-Horses

Here are a few of the commonly asked questions regarding joint supplements.

  • How much joint supplement do I feed?

The amount you feed will depend on the weight of your horse. Most dosages are standardized for the typical 1100-pound horse, but not all horses weigh that much.

  • Do horses like it?

Palatability is often an issue when it comes to supplements. Most users of all seven of these products have reported that their horses eat them. For powdered formulas, you may need to lightly wet it with water to get it to stick to the feed versus being left in the bottom of the feed tub. Pelleted formulas tend to mix with feed very well.

  • What does the loading dose do?

The loading dose ensures your horse gets enough of the product in their system that it will start to work, and then once the appropriate levels have been established, you can reduce the maintenance dose. If you don’t do a loading dose, the product could take significantly longer to work. For the Cosequin products, it is recommended to feed 2 scoops daily for two to four weeks. For the Horse Health Products Joint Combo, it is recommended to feed three scoops per day for 3-4 weeks. This is because the Cosequin products have more active ingredients per ounce.

  • How long will one container last?

The first container will last approximately one month or slightly longer. Once the horse has been “loaded,” so to speak, one container will last 84 days for the Cosequin product and 64 days for the Horse Health Products Joint Combo supplement.

  • What conditions does a joint supplement help?

There are a variety of conditions that a supplement can help. First and foremost, it can prevent issues, so the horse is less likely to develop joint problems. However, suppose you have acquired a horse with joint problems. In that case, these products are commonly used for navicular disease, arthritis, stifle injuries, aging joints, old joint injuries, and general stiffness and mobility issues due to aging.

  • How soon will I notice a difference?

All horses are different, but many users have reported improving their horses within two weeks on all products.

  • What signs will I see that my horse is improving?

Common signs that a joint supplement is working include improved mobility, fluidity in gaits, ability to run and play with other pasture mates, and general improvement in attitude and disposition due to pain relief.

Final Words

While most joint supplement products contain the same ingredients, it’s important to consider your budget, what you can afford, and the amounts of the active ingredients. At the same time, you will also want to consider the horse’s age and its needs. It may be worth it to prevent issues on a cheaper product if your horse is young and not showing signs of joint problems.

On the other hand, if your horse is aging and shows signs of joint problems, a more expensive product like a calming horse supplement with more active ingredients is worth considering to see results more quickly. Thank you for reading our reviews for the best joint supplement for horses! You can also look at horse fly spraysaddle pad reviews, and automatic horse waterer if you need it.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *