Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is an organosulfur compound known to benefit joint health. But MSM is also used as a health supplement to treat common ailments for aging dogs. Proven as a safe supplement, MSM can boost your dog’s overall health and immune system.
We’ll explain what MSM is and how it is manufactured, its common benefits, and how owners use MSM for dogs. MSM is a viable antioxidant supplement that can improve your dog’s health and lifespan.
Where Does MSM Come From?
MSM occurs naturally and synthetically. Phytoplankton in the ocean release dimethylsulfide (DMS) gas when they die and decompose. When DMS reacts to oxygen and sunlight, it forms methylsulfonylmethane and other sulfates. The MSM is absorbed into the clouds and dispersed to plants through the rain.
For commercial consumption, MSM is synthetically created from a catalytic reaction of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and hydrogen peroxide. DMSO is created by combining paper mill pulp liquid and sulfur that is distilled and extracted.
While MSM is a popular supplement that is safe to ingest, you should carefully consider how the supplement is manufactured and research the quality and potency before purchasing.
What is MSM for Dogs?
MSM for dogs is a supplement that can restore biological sulfur to the body to improve cell, tissue, and organ function. A great supplement to boost the immune system, MSM also reduces chronic pain in the muscles and joints.
Many dog owners supplement their dog’s diet with MSM or choose dog foods that are high in MSM.
MSM Benefits for Dogs
MSM has several natural benefits:
- Blocks pain impulses in the nerve fibers to reduce chronic joint pain.
- Enhances cortisol activity that reduces inflammation.
- Improves the cellular absorption of essential vitamins and nutrients for longer life.
- It has antioxidant qualities and can reduce the effects of free radicals.
- Enables detoxification for easier digestion and bowel movements.
- Restores elasticity and permeability to cell membranes.
- Eliminates harmful parasites in the intestines.
- Reduces allergy symptoms.
Is MSM Good for Dogs?
MSM for dogs is a great preventative supplement that contributes to your dog’s overall health and longevity. MSM is primarily used for:
- Anti-Inflammatory
- MSM reduces inflammation for various conditions, including:
- Colitis
- Lung injury
- Liver injury
- Acute allergies
- Joint disease
MSM reduces the pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with these inflammatory conditions.
Antioxidant
MSM activates transcription factors that regulate and balance antioxidant enzymes. It can also bind and inhibit free radicals, which improves overall health and fortifies the immune system.
Free radicals are a contributing factor to chronic inflammation and obesity in dogs and cats. As your pet ages, chronic inflammation can lead to several health conditions. By supplementing your dog’s diet with MSM, you’ll be able to reduce this inflammation caused by free radicals.
Immune Modulation
Because MSM supports the immune system, it can reduce stress and modulate the immune system’s response to oxidative stress and inflammation. For dogs that experience heightened levels of stress, MSM can boost your dog’s ability to regulate and reduce stress. Reducing oxidative stress can help prevent cataracts and blindness.
Related Link: 9 Best Ways to Calm Your Dog
Arthritis
Studies have proven that MSM can dramatically reduce the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, such as deformation and swelling. MSM modifies the immune system’s responses and can protect against further development of arthritis.
Does your dog suffer from joint pain? Shop Dope Dog’s all-natural CBD oil products.
Related Link: CBD for Dogs with Arthritis
Cartilage Preservation
Osteoarthritis can degrade cartilage over time. Studies have found that MSM can disrupt the destruction of cartilage and protect articular cartilage in animals. This is particularly beneficial to older dogs that are more prone to arthritis and cartilage degradation.
Reduce Allergies
MSM can improve upper respiratory symptoms from seasonal allergies. The MSM binds to the mucosa and acts as a natural barrier to allergens. If pollens can irritate your dog, you may want to consider an MSM supplement.
Related Link: The Complete Guide to Dog Allergies
Improved Skin
MSM improves skin quality and texture by boosting keratin levels and dermal cell production. As an antioxidant, MSM protects the skin from inflammation and collagen degradation.
Can Dogs Take MSM?
Yes, the MSM supplement is generally given by mouth with food as a capsule or powder. Your dog should take MSM with a meal to prevent stomach discomfort.
The recommended MSM dog dosage is 50 to 100 mg of MSM per 10 lbs of body weight.
Is MSM Safe for Dogs?
Yes, MSM isn’t toxic and is a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) approved substance. Because MSM is considered safe with relatively few side effects, your dog can take MSM in large doses. However, you should not exceed the recommended dosage to minimize any unpleasant side effects.
Should your pet take CBD every day?
MSM for Dogs Side Effects
Dogs that take MSM for a long duration may experience stomach pains or gastrointestinal discomfort. To ensure your dog doesn’t experience any discomfort, you should monitor your dog’s overall health, behavior changes, or changes in your dog’s stools. Other side effects that may occur are:
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Restlessness
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
An MSM Supplement May Benefit Your Dog
Because it is a completely safe supplement, there isn’t a downside to supplementing your dog’s diet with MSM, especially if you have an older dog. As your dog ages, its body will become more susceptible to inflammation, oxidative stress, free radicals, and cartilage degradation.
To combat these common health conditions, you should consider an MSM supplement for your dog. Not only will it reduce inflammation and joint pain, but MSM will boost your dog’s overall health, reduce allergies, and fortify its immune system.
It is also okay, if not even better, to take other supplements in addition to MSM. CBD for dogs is something that has been in the market for a few years now and can help just about all the benefits that MSN helps with.
Dope Dog offers high-quality CBD oil products for dogs to help manage joint pain, stress, and inflammation. CBD treats and oils are a natural supplement for reducing pain and increasing mobility for a better quality of life.
Want a natural supplement for your aging dog’s chronic pain and inflammation? Shop Dope Dogs all-natural CBD dog treats and oils.
Related Link: Dog Anxiety: What Dog Owners Need to Know
