Joint issues are one of the most common problems faced by aging and large-breed dogs, and the right diet can make a real difference. With so many dog foods claiming to support joint health, it can be overwhelming to know which ones truly deliver. Whether you're managing early stiffness, diagnosed arthritis, or post-injury recovery, nutrition plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation, maintaining mobility, and supporting overall comfort.
This guide simplifies your search by sharing vet-recommended, evidence-backed dog foods proven to support joint and mobility health. We've selected only the options that meet veterinary standards, including therapeutic diets and premium everyday foods, so you can confidently support your dog’s movement and quality of life.
Vet-Approved Top Picks
Here are our top vet-recommended joint-support dog foods in Australia for 2025:
- Best Overall Joint Support: Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Mobility Care Adult Dog Dry Food
- Best Dual-Purpose for Weight and Joint Support: Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic + Mobility j/d Care Dry Food
- Best for Large Breeds: Advance Mobility Chicken with Rice Large Breed Dog Dry Food
- Best for Early-Stage Support: Hill's Science Diet Healthy Mobility Adult Dog Dry Food
- Best Veterinary Mobility Prescription Diet: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility C2P+ Adult Dry Dog Food
Best Overall Option: Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Mobility Care Adult Dog Dry Food
Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Mobility Care Adult Dog Dry Food is clinically proven to improve a dog’s ability to walk, run, and climb in as little as 21 days. As a therapeutic diet specifically formulated to target joint inflammation and cartilage health, it contains high levels of EPA, DHA, and glucosamine to support mobility, along with controlled calories to help maintain a healthy weight.
Why Dr Jack Recommends This Food:
- Clinically proven to improve joint mobility
- High levels of EPA & DHA from fish oil
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin
- Includes L-carnitine to maintain lean muscle
- Trusted by vets for managing arthritis and early-stage mobility issues
Best Dual-Purpose for Weight and Joint Support: Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic + Mobility j/d Care Dry Food
Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic + Mobility j/d Care Dry Food combines two therapeutic solutions in one — scientifically formulated to help dogs lose excess weight while actively supporting joint health. This unique blend targets fat metabolism and provides elevated omega-3 levels to reduce inflammation, making it an excellent option for overweight dogs with arthritis or mobility challenges.
Why Dr Jack Recommends This Food:
- Promotes healthy weight loss, reducing strain on joints
- Clinically proven to improve mobility in as little as 21 days
- Rich in EPA & DHA from fish oil to combat joint inflammation
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support cartilage
- Helps break the cycle of weight gain and worsening arthritis
Best for Large Breeds: Advance Mobility Chicken with Rice Large Breed Dog Dry Food
Advance Mobility Chicken with Rice Large Breed Dog Dry Food is crafted specifically for large breed dogs prone to joint wear and tear. It combines natural sources of glucosamine with controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to support skeletal health. This diet is also fortified with antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress that can accelerate joint degeneration.
Why Dr Jack Recommends This Food:
- Tailored nutrient levels to support large breed skeletal needs
- Contains natural glucosamine to nourish joint cartilage
- Antioxidants like vitamin E to help reduce inflammation
- Balanced energy content to maintain a healthy body weight
- Australian-made formula supporting local quality standards
Best for Early-Stage Support: Hill's Science Diet Healthy Mobility Adult Dog Dry Food
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Mobility Adult Dog Dry Food is ideal for dogs starting to show subtle signs of stiffness or for proactive joint support in breeds at risk. Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility delivers natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin. Its high-quality chicken protein supports lean muscle mass to help maintain strong, stable joints.
Why Dr Jack Recommends This Food:
- Provides everyday joint protection for dogs before advanced arthritis sets in
- Natural glucosamine and chondroitin to cushion joints
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil for anti-inflammatory support
- High-quality protein to sustain muscle strength
- Excellent option for maintaining long-term mobility in active dogs
Best Veterinary Mobility Prescription Diet: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility C2P+ Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility C2P+ Adult Dry Dog Food is a veterinary-exclusive formula enriched with an innovative blend of turmeric extract, hydrolysed collagen, and green tea polyphenols. These bioactive compounds work synergistically to protect cartilage and manage joint inflammation, making it a trusted choice for chronic arthritis management.
Why Dr Jack Recommends This Food:
- Contains C2P+ joint support complex uniquely targeting inflammation
- Hydrolysed collagen peptides to nourish cartilage structure
- Green tea polyphenols and turmeric for natural antioxidant effects
- Precisely balanced nutrients to support overall wellbeing
- Often recommended for dogs recovering from orthopaedic surgery
Browse our range of vet recommended mobility support diets
Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Mobility Care Adult Dog Dry Food
Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Mobility Care Chicken Flavour Dry Dog Food offers clinical nutrition proven to help improve your dog’s ability to run, walk and jump in as little as 21 days. It’s made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust, and was developed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians. This food is also formulated to promote a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals. Please consult your veterinarian for further information on how Prescription Diet foods can help your dog continue to enjoy a happy and active life.
- Specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support your dog’s joint health
- Clinically proven to improve your dog’s ability to run, walk and jump in as little as 21 days
- Helps preserve joint cartilage
- Enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate
- Added L-carnitine helps build lean muscle
- Clinically proven antioxidants support a healthy immune system
- Consult with your vet to make sure Prescription Diet j/d is the right food for your dog Transformative and delicious food that helps support pet health
Hill's Prescription Diet Metabolic Weight + j/d Mobility Care Adult Dog Dry Food
Hill's Prescription Diet Metabolic Weight + j/d Mobility is clinical nutrition proven to help dogs lose weight at home and support joint health.
- Dogs lost weight at home in 2 months
- Synergistic blend of ingredients and nutrients works naturally with your dog's unique metabolism
- Nutrition to help avoid weight regain after weight loss, plus includes powerful antioxidants
- High levels of omega-3 fatty acids support your dog’s ability to run, walk and jump Helps your dog feel full and satisfied between meals while supporting vitality and holistic health
- Transformative food that dogs absolutely love
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility C2P+ Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin® Mobility C2P+ is a veterinary exclusive dry dog food. The result of years of extensive research, this food was formulated as a nutritional solution to help support your dog’s mobility.
It contains selected nutrients, including hydrolysed collagen, to help support joint cartilage health. This formula has a moderate calorie content to help maintain an ideal body weight. Plus, it has a tailored blend of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, this specialised nutrition aids urinary health by creating an environment unfavourable to crystal formation in the bladder.
Mobility Support
Scientifically proven in a clinical study where 88% of dogs showed an improvement in mobility when fed Mobility C2P+.
Innovative C2P+ Joint Complex
Formulated with a synergistic combination of turmeric extract, hydrolysed collagen and green tea polyphenols, to help protect joint cartilage health.
Moderate Calorie
Joints are under stress when dogs are overweight. Moderate calorie content to support joint health by helping to maintain an ideal body weight.
This diet is formulated to promote a healthy urinary environment
How We Chose the Best Dog Food for Joint Support
Every joint and mobility support dog food recommendation in this guide was selected based on real veterinary insight and an evidence-based approach. We combined practical clinical experience with a close look at product data to ensure each option genuinely support stronger joints and reduce inflammation, ensuring they are relevant for real-life mobility issues
It includes nutritional guidelines like AAFCO standards, the Australian Pet Food Manufacturing Standard (AS5812) and a close look at leading pet food brands available across Australia.
Our selection process considered:
- Clinical experience managing dogs with arthritis, joint pain, and post-injury recovery
- Ingredient and nutritional review based on manufacturer transparency and published feeding trials
- Targeted joint-support nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s, and antioxidants
- Palatability and digestibility to ensure dogs actually want to eat them
- Compliance with AAFCO or FEDIAF nutritional standards to ensure balanced, complete diets
Our aim is to recommend only products that make a measurable difference in joint health, backed by veterinary science and practical results. We always recommend speaking with your veterinarian before starting any new diet, especially therapeutic or prescription foods. They can help tailor a plan to your dog’s specific joint health needs, ensuring you choose the most appropriate option for long-term success.
What Causes Joint Issues and Arthritis in Dogs?
Understanding what leads to joint problems can help you better manage and even prevent mobility decline in your dog.
Developmental Conditions
Some dogs are born with joint deformities or hip/elbow dysplasia, particularly in large breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds. These conditions worsen with age and require lifelong joint support.
Age-Related Degeneration
As dogs age, their cartilage naturally wears down, leading to osteoarthritis. This degenerative process is common and often starts around middle age in larger breeds.
Injury and Overuse
Past trauma, cruciate ligament injuries, or repetitive stress can damage joints, leading to chronic pain and inflammation.
Inflammatory or Autoimmune Disorders
Some joint diseases are caused by immune system dysfunction, such as immune-mediated polyarthritis, which can cause pain and swelling in multiple joints.
Signs Your Dog Might Need Joint and Mobility Support
Joint issues often start subtly. Being able to spot the early signs allows you to intervene sooner and prevent further discomfort or degeneration. Common signs include:
- Stiffness or hesitation when getting up, lying down, or climbing stairs
- Reduced activity — less running, playing, or longer naps
- Limping or favouring a limb, especially after rest or long walks
- Changes in posture or gait (arched back, dragging feet)
- Reluctance to be touched around joints or hips
Vet Tip
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait — talk to your vet. Early dietary changes and supportive care can dramatically slow joint degeneration and keep your dog active for longer.
What to Look for in Joint Support Dog Food
Joint-supporting dog food is more than just a label. The best formulas contain functional ingredients proven to reduce inflammation, protect cartilage, and support a healthy weight. Here’s what to look for:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)
Derived from fish oil, these fatty acids reduce joint inflammation and support mobility. High-quality joint diets often contain clinically effective levels of EPA.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
These are natural building blocks of healthy cartilage. They help cushion joints, reduce pain, and slow the progression of arthritis.
Controlled Calories and Weight Management
Excess weight puts strain on joints. Look for diets that help maintain ideal body condition with controlled fat content and added L-carnitine to support lean muscle.
Added Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
Ingredients like vitamin E, turmeric, green tea polyphenols, and beta-carotene help fight cellular damage and reduce oxidative stress on joints.
Highly Digestible Proteins
Easily absorbed protein sources support muscle maintenance and minimise strain from poor digestion. Foods should also avoid excessive fillers that add calories without nutritional benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What supplements can help with joint support in dogs?
While therapeutic diets are a powerful first step, joint supplements can provide additional relief. Vet-recommended options include:
- 4CYTE Canine – Contains Epiitalis® for cartilage regeneration and long-term joint support.
- Glyde Mobility Chews – Combine glucosamine, chondroitin, and green-lipped mussel.
- Vetalogica Canine Joint Support Chews – Formulated with natural anti-inflammatories and MSM.
Always consult your vet before adding supplements to ensure they complement your dog’s existing diet and needs.
Can I feed a joint support diet long-term?
Yes. Most joint care diets are designed to be complete and balanced, making them suitable for lifelong feeding under veterinary guidance.
When should I start my dog on joint support food?
Start as early as possible if your dog is a large breed, has had an injury, or is showing signs of stiffness. Preventative support is especially useful in predisposed breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
Joint Support Supplements for Dogs
While therapeutic dog foods provide a strong nutritional foundation, joint support supplements can offer additional targeted relief, especially in dogs with more advanced arthritis, past injuries, or breed-related predispositions. These supplements can enhance mobility, reduce pain, and slow cartilage breakdown when used alongside a balanced diet.
Here are the top vet-recommended joint supplements in Australia:
4CYTE Canine
Why vets recommend it: 4CYTE is one of the most scientifically supported joint supplements available. Its key ingredient, Epiitalis®, is clinically proven to aid in cartilage regeneration and reduce inflammation. It’s often used in cases of moderate to severe arthritis or after orthopaedic surgery.
Best for: Dogs with advanced joint disease, those recovering from injury, or dogs already showing signs of pain and stiffness.
Glyde Mobility Chews
Why vets recommend it: Glyde combines glucosamine, chondroitin, and green-lipped mussel — a natural source of omega-3s and anti-inflammatory compounds. The chewable format makes it easy to give, even for fussy dogs.
Best for: Dogs at any stage of joint degeneration who need daily support in a tasty format.
Vetalogica Canine Joint Support Chews
Why vets recommend it: These chews contain MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), turmeric, and antioxidants to fight inflammation and support joint flexibility. They’re Australian-made and free from grains and artificial ingredients.
Best for: Dogs with mild joint discomfort or pet parents looking for a natural, locally made supplement.
Vet Tip
Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement, especially if your dog is on prescription medications or has a pre-existing health condition. Supplements are most effective when tailored to your dog’s age, breed, weight, and joint status.
Shop our vet recommended mobility supplements
4CYTE Canine Joint Supplements for Dogs
4CYTE Granules for Dogs is an oral joint supplement that is backed by world-class research and development, including peer-reviewed papers, world conference proceedings and ongoing post-doctorate research. 4CYTE™ Granules brings confidence to a new class of natural veterinary products.
4CYTE Granules for Dogs contains Epiitalis®, a unique advancement in joint treatment containing a proprietary plant oil extract, patented for its ability to proliferate chondrocyte cells in the presence of inflammation. It can also be used in large breeds, working or athletic dogs to support the pathological pathway of joint health.
4CYTE Granules for Dogs is safe to take long-term and is used to:
- Help maintain suppleness to jump, run or play
- Provide nutritional support after joint injury or surgery
- Support healthy joints at any stage of life
- Boost the body’s ability to meet performance and recuperation demands in athletic and working dogs
Glyde Mobility Chews for Dogs
Maintain healthy joints and relieve joint pain in your dog with Glyde Mobility Chews. This is the only hip and joint supplement for dogs with scientifically proven levels of green lipped mussel, glucosamine, and chondroitin. Using all-natural ingredients, Glyde promotes joint health and normal cartilage development, helping dogs continue to do everything they love!
Glyde contains essential building blocks for cartilage and a wide range of anti-inflammatory ingredients that protect and repair joint tissue. Carefully formulated to deliver the most evidence-based ingredient combination, Glyde Mobility Chews are not only effective but also enjoyable for any dog as a tasty treat.
The soft, heart-shaped chews are gluten free, easy to break and come with a 100% palatability guarantee. Glyde products are made in Australia and contain no shark cartilage.
- Controls the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs and aids in the improvement of joint health and function.
Vetalogica Canine Joint Support for Dogs 120 Chews
Are you concerned about your furry friend's joint health? Vetalogica Canine Joint Support has got you covered! Our scientifically formulated tablets contain a soothing blend of MSM and omega oils that help maintain optimal bone and joint health in dogs.
Numerous factors such as diet, lifestyle, age, breed, and injury can contribute to joint function and strength. If your pet is experiencing symptoms like limping, lameness, joint stiffness, difficulty rising from a resting position, personality changes, or reluctance to walk, climb stairs, jump or play, it's time to try Vetalogica Canine Joint Support!
Our exclusive joint care blend is made from natural ingredients, providing optimal joint care in a convenient chewable tablet form. And the best part? It tastes delicious! Made from real Australian chicken and duck meat, our treat is free from corn, wheat, rice, artificial colors, and flavors.
But don't just take our word for it. Supplements for joint health are one of the most commonly purchased supplements for dogs. Just like for humans, nutritional dog supplements can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis and other joint problems. Vetalogica Canine Joint Support ensures that your dog consumes essential vitamins and minerals that help maintain healthy bones and joints.
If you're thinking about a hip and joint supplement, we suggest you try Vetalogica products because having your dog take the right supplements is essential. Our world-exclusive formulations are the result of numerous years of research and development by scientists, chemists, veterinarians, and flavor experts.
Don't wait any longer to help your furry friend maintain optimal bone and joint health. Try Vetalogica Canine Joint Support today and see the difference it can make! Always consider visiting your vet to establish a proper feeding routine.
How it works
Canine Joint Support is particularly important treat in unbalanced diets, which can lead to arthritis and other joint related issues. Theses specially formulated tablets contain essential vitamins and minerals that help reduce the risk of nutritional developmental bone disorders in susceptible breeds. It also promotes optimal growth and development of the muscle-skeletal system.
Conclusion
Supporting your dog’s joint health can dramatically improve their comfort, mobility, and quality of life, especially as they age or recover from injury. With the right diet, you can reduce inflammation, protect cartilage, and keep your dog moving well into their senior years. The vet-recommended options in this guide are a strong foundation for proactive joint care, offering both everyday support and clinical-grade nutrition tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
