Should You Share Your Arthritis Supplements With Your Dog?
From one dog dad to another
It might sound like an odd question at first - but it’s one of the most common things I get asked lately:
“Dr Vincent, I take your activated phenolics for my joints… can I give them to my dog too?”
And honestly, I understand why.
For many of us—myself included—our dog isn’t just a pet. They’re family. They’re our emotional support, our walking buddy, our shadow. And just like us, they age. They slow down. They limp after a walk. They stiffen up on cold mornings.
I have a Labrador, and if you’ve ever had one, you’ll know joint issues are almost inevitable. So I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about this exact issue—not just as a scientist, but as a dog parent.
As more Australians turn to natural products like activated phenolics to help manage arthritis, it’s only natural they want to help their furry companion in the same way.
But here’s where things get tricky.
Not All Supplements Are Safe to Share
Most conventional joint supplements rely on turmeric (curcumin) for inflammation. It’s popular, yes - but here’s the problem: dogs don’t process curcumin like we do.
High doses or long-term use of turmeric can lead to vomiting, liver stress, and even iron deficiency in dogs. Worse, many of these supplements aren’t formulated with canine metabolism in mind - meaning dosage and absorption are all over the place.
Activated phenolics are water-soluble antioxidants extracted from Australian apples using a patented process I developed. They’re gentle, effective, and don’t burden the liver or kidneys. Even in low doses, they reduce inflammation at the cellular level. That’s a big deal - not just for humans, but for animals too.
Of course, I always say this: check with your vet first. Your dog’s weight, breed, existing conditions - they all matter when considering supplements. But from what I’ve seen, when used thoughtfully, activated phenolics can support a dog’s vitality, movement, and comfort in a truly meaningful way.
Q&A with Dr Vincent
Q: Do dogs experience arthritis the same way we do?
Yes, they do. Arthritis in dogs—just like in humans—is caused by wear and tear, ageing, injury, or genetics. Joint cartilage breaks down, and inflammation creeps in. Breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are especially prone. Add in obesity or past injuries, and the risks rise. At the root of it? Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation—the same culprits we deal with.
Q: Can dogs benefit from antioxidants like humans?
Absolutely. Antioxidants fight oxidative stress - the driver behind so much pain and stiffness in older dogs. I’ve seen incredible changes in dogs that have been supported with antioxidant-based care. Activated phenolics, in particular, have a very low toxicity profile and provide anti-inflammatory benefits without suppressing the immune system or upsetting the gut.
Q: Is it safe to give my dog my human supplements?
This is where caution is critical. Not all human supplements are safe for pets. Many natural ingredients - like turmeric, for instance - aren’t tolerated well in dogs, especially in large or uncontrolled doses. Activated phenolics powder, however, is water-based, natural, and designed to be safe for long-term use. Still, I urge people to speak with their vet before starting.
Q: Why are so many people trying to share their supplements with their pets?
It’s simple. They see the difference in themselves. They’re moving better. They’re in less pain. They feel younger. And naturally, they want their beloved pet to feel the same. That bond is real, health becomes a shared journey.
I’ve had countless people message me saying, “I started giving my dog a pinch of activated phenolics with their food, and they’re running around like a puppy again.” That kind of feedback is powerful. It reinforces what I believe at my core: health isn’t just personal, it’s relational.
So, should you share your arthritis supplement with your dog?
Only if it’s safe, evidence-based, and approved by your vet.
And if you’re already using activated phenolics? You may just be onto something your four-legged friend can benefit from too.
Because when we thrive, we want those we love - two legs or four - to thrive with us.
This was also published in The Seniors.