If you share your home with a Hovawart, you probably know the breed's mix of calm loyalty and farm-dog energy. They stride, leap and patrol the garden as if it were a full working day. So when your dog hesitates at the car boot or gets up more slowly than they used to, it is natural to start looking at joint supplements.
The search can feel confusing. Tablets, chews, capsules and oils all promise comfort, and the ingredient lists look quite different. The honest answer is that no supplement is "best" for every dog. The right one suits your dog's size, age, lifestyle and eating habits, and is one you can give consistently.
This guide covers what to look for, how formats and ingredients differ, and how to give a supplement a fair trial. We also look at the everyday habits that matter just as much. A supplement is a complementary feed that sits alongside veterinary care, never in place of it.
Choosing a joint chew for a large, active Hovawart
A Hovawart is a sturdy, farm-bred dog, so the label matters more than the marketing. Below is a comparison of MedPaw Hip & Joint Chews Max, our own product, with five other well-known UK joint supplements.
The first row counts how many of six key joint actives each product lists: glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid and Boswellia serrata.
MedPaw is the only one of the six with all six key joint actives
| Ingredient | MedPaw Hip & Joint Chews Max | NutraPaw Joint Support | YuMOVE Joint Support PLUS Max | Seraquin Joint | Synoquin EFA | Nutraquin+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Key joint actives | 6 of 6 | 4 of 6 | 3 of 6 (+1 via mussel) | 2 of 6 | 2 of 6 | 3 of 6 |
| Glucosamine | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Chondroitin | ✓ | ✗ | Via mussel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| MSM | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Green-lipped mussel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Hyaluronic acid | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Boswellia | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Omega-3 | Mussel, flax | Mussel | Mussel, fish oil | ✗ | Krill oil | ✗ |
| Turmeric | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Collagen | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Antioxidants | Vit C, Vit E, zinc | Manganese | Vit C, Vit E, manganese | ✗ | Vit C, zinc | Vit C, zinc |
| Format | Soft chew | Tablet | Tablet | Chewable tablet | Tablet or capsule | Capsule |
| Guarantee | 60 days | 90 days | 6 weeks | Not stated | Not stated | Not stated |
✓ = included, ✗ = not listed. Key joint actives: glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid and Boswellia. Taken from each manufacturer's published information, September 2026.
For a big working-type breed, the number of actives is worth a close look. MedPaw is the only product in the table with all six, scoring 6 of 6. NutraPaw lists four, YuMOVE and Nutraquin+ three, and Seraquin and Synoquin EFA two each. That puts more joint-supporting ingredients into a single daily routine for your Hovawart.
Format matters too, because a supplement only works if your dog takes it every day. MedPaw is a soft chew, and most adult Hovawarts fall into the 18kg and over feeding band of 2-3 chews a day. A 60-day money-back guarantee and Subscribe & Save make a fair trial of 2-3 months easier to manage. MedPaw supports joints, mobility and comfort alongside veterinary care.
See MedPaw Hip & Joint Chews Max Take a look at the full MedPaw formula and feeding guide to see how it could fit your Hovawart's daily routine.
Why there is no single "best" joint supplement
Joint supplements are generally described as helpful for some dogs but not all. Your vet is the best person to say whether your dog is likely to benefit, and to check that a product is suitable alongside any existing condition or medication.
Supplements are classed similarly to food. Rare dietary reactions can happen with any new product, so it is sensible to follow the feeding guide on the pack. A supplement can help to support joints and mobility. It cannot diagnose a problem, and it is no substitute for having pain or a sudden change checked by your vet.
So rather than hunting for a single winner, it helps to ask a few practical questions:
- How big is my dog, and which feeding band applies?
- Which ingredients do I want to see on the label?
- Will my Hovawart take this format happily every day?
- How long a guarantee or trial period would I like?
Why a large, active breed deserves early thought
Hovawarts were bred as working farm and guard dogs, and most adults are well above 18kg. Owners of large and giant breeds often think about joint support earlier than owners of smaller dogs. Hip stability in particular is a common concern in large breeds, and breeds such as German Shepherds are often given as examples of dogs that can be prone to hip or elbow problems.
We have no reliable Hovawart-specific figures to share, so it is best to think in general terms. A big, energetic dog puts more load through the joints than a small, sedate one. Active and working-type dogs can place extra stress on them, and wear and tear builds up over a lifetime. That is why joint comfort tends to matter more in senior dogs.
None of this means your Hovawart will have problems. It simply means a thoughtful routine of weight control, sensible exercise and, where your vet agrees, a supplement is worth considering sooner rather than later.
What to look for on the label
Ingredient lists differ a lot between products, so compare labels rather than assuming all joint supplements are alike. These are the ingredients you will see most often:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: associated with supporting cartilage, the cushioning tissue in joints.
- MSM: often used alongside glucosamine.
- Green-lipped mussel: a source of omega-3 and other nutrients.
- Hyaluronic acid: associated with joint fluid and smoother-feeling movement.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: from fish oil, mussel, flax seed or similar sources.
- Turmeric and Boswellia: plant extracts used in some formulas to support comfort.
- Vitamins C and E: antioxidants that support normal body function.
- Collagen: included in some products.
Look at the actives themselves, not just the claims on the front of the pack. Check that the ingredients you want are actually listed, and note whether a product relies on one ingredient to cover another. For example, chondroitin can appear as its own ingredient or only as part of a mussel.
Format matters, mostly for consistency
Even the most carefully chosen formula does little if your dog refuses it. A Hovawart who happily eats a daily chew or tablet will be better served by it than one who turns their nose up at a "stronger" product. Format is largely about what your dog will take every single day.
Common supplement formats and what to consider
| Format | Often suits | Worth checking |
|---|---|---|
| Soft chew | Dogs that treat it like a reward, and fussy eaters | The actives listed and the number of chews for your dog's weight |
| Tablet | Dogs that take tablets easily or will eat them hidden in food | The label for the range and amount of actives |
| Capsule | Dogs that accept capsules, or owners who can open them into food | The label and the maker's guidance on giving them |
| Oil or powder | Dogs that refuse other formats but eat their meals well | How easily it mixes in and whether your dog still eats it |
| Joint-focused diet | Owners who want to change their dog's main food | That it replaces the normal diet, so talk to your vet first |
For guidance only, not a diagnosis.
You may hear that tablets and capsules contain a higher concentration or wider range of actives than chews. That will not be true of every product, so check the label of the specific one you are considering rather than assuming. Chews can be a real advantage for dogs who see them as a treat, because daily giving then becomes easy to keep up.
How some popular options differ
Products differ in format, ingredient range and guarantee length. The details below come from each manufacturer's published information as of September 2026, and are listed in no particular order. Please check the current pack before you buy.
MedPaw Hip & Joint Chews Max
This is our own product, so we want to be clear about what it is. It is a daily soft chew and a complementary feed for dogs. The joint actives are glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid and Boswellia serrata. It also contains omega-3 from green-lipped mussel and flax seed, vitamins C and E, and zinc, and is made with rapeseed oil and glycerine.
The feeding guide is 1 chew a day up to 4kg, 2 chews for 5 to 17kg, and 2 to 3 chews for 18kg and over, doubled for the first three weeks. For a typical adult Hovawart over 18kg, that means the 2 to 3 chew band applies, but do check the pack. We recommend daily use for 2 to 3 months. There is a 60-day money-back guarantee, and Subscribe & Save is available.
Other products you may come across
- NutraPaw Joint Support is a tablet. It contains glucosamine, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, turmeric and collagen, with omega-3 from the mussel and manganese. It does not list chondroitin or Boswellia, and has a 90-day guarantee.
- YuMOVE Joint Support PLUS Max is a tablet. It contains glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid and fish oil, with chondroitin only via the mussel, plus vitamins C and E and manganese. It does not list MSM, Boswellia, turmeric or collagen, and has a 6-week guarantee.
- Seraquin Joint is a chewable tablet. It contains glucosamine, chondroitin and turmeric. It does not list MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, Boswellia, omega-3 or collagen. A guarantee is not stated.
- Synoquin EFA comes as a tablet or capsule. It contains glucosamine, chondroitin and krill oil, plus vitamin C and zinc. It does not list MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, Boswellia, turmeric or collagen. A guarantee is not stated.
- Nutraquin+ is a capsule. It contains glucosamine, chondroitin and Boswellia, plus vitamin C and zinc. It does not list MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, omega-3, turmeric or collagen. A guarantee is not stated.
Each has its own approach, and a simpler formula is not a worse one. Some owners prefer a shorter ingredient list, and others want a wider range of actives. Decide which ingredients matter to you, which format your dog will accept, and how long a guarantee you would like.
Pick one product and give it time
It usually works best to choose a single supplement rather than layering several types together. That keeps things simple, makes it easier to see how your dog is getting on, and avoids doubling up on the same ingredients without realising.
Patience matters too. A joint supplement is not a quick fix, and every dog is different, so there is no set timeframe for when you might notice a difference. It is fairer to give it a consistent daily trial over a couple of months, following the maker's guidance, before deciding how it is going.
A simple way to judge fairly is to keep brief notes before you start and review them after a few weeks, and again at the end of the trial:
- How easily does your Hovawart get up from lying down?
- How do they cope with stairs, or with jumping into the car?
- Do they keep up on walks, or lag behind?
- Are their mood and willingness to play much the same?
Different products come with different guidance. We recommend 2 to 3 months of daily use for MedPaw, which is one reason a guarantee period can be useful for giving a product a proper go.
Puppies and young Hovawarts
Most healthy puppies do not need joint supplements. They usually get what they need from a good diet and appropriate exercise. That said, large breeds grow quickly, which can put pressure on developing joints, and some vets may suggest early support.
Always speak to your vet before giving a supplement to a growing puppy. The same goes for young dogs doing a lot, such as agility training. Extra support may suit them, but your vet should confirm that first.
Weight, exercise and everyday habits
This is the part no supplement can replace. Weight management matters hugely alongside any joint support, because every extra kilogram adds stress to the joints. Keeping your Hovawart at a healthy weight is one of the most helpful things you can do for their comfort.
Exercise matters too, but the type counts. Regular, low-stress activity helps build the muscles that support the joints. A breed that tends to go all out can overdo sudden bursts, so try to avoid:
- Repeated jumping, such as for a ball or off a high tailgate
- Sudden sprinting after long periods of rest
- Weekend marathons after quiet weekdays
Steady daily walks, a non-slip surface at home, warm comfortable bedding and regular check-ups all help. Noticing stiffness or changes in gait early means you can talk to your vet sooner.
Finally, never give your dog human supplements or painkillers. Some human products contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, and ibuprofen is one of them. If your dog seems to be in pain, ask your vet for guidance.
Signs to watch for, and when to call the vet
Early signs of joint discomfort can be subtle. You might notice:
- Hesitation when jumping into the car or climbing stairs
- Limping or stiffness, especially after resting
- Difficulty getting up from lying down
- Becoming withdrawn, irritable or less sociable
- Slowing down on walks or lagging behind
- In later stages, obvious limping or crying out when a joint is moved
How quickly should I contact the vet?
Mention it at the next check-up
Mild slowing down, or a little hesitation on stairs. Make a note of what you see and ask your vet whether a supplement might suit your dog.
Book an appointment promptly
Limping that persists or worsens, stiffness after rest, joint swelling, or any change in behaviour. Only a vet can find the cause.
Seek veterinary attention straight away
Sudden lameness, sudden worsening of discomfort, crying out, or refusing to put weight on a leg. Do not wait.
Also contact your vet if, after starting a supplement, your dog develops diarrhoea, vomiting, skin rashes or itching, as these can point to an intolerance or allergy. Tell your vet about any supplement your dog takes, and never stop or change prescribed medication without their advice.
Choosing with confidence
For a Hovawart, the most useful approach is a practical one. Talk to your vet first, read the labels, choose a format your dog will take every day, and follow the feeding guide for their weight. Stick with one main product, keep notes, and give it a fair, consistent trial before deciding how it is going.
A joint supplement can be a helpful part of the picture, alongside a healthy weight, sensible exercise and regular check-ups. Together, those help keep your loyal, energetic companion comfortable on the walks they love.
What is the best joint supplement for a Hovawart?
There is no single best option for every Hovawart, as the right one depends on your dog's weight, age and whether they will take it every day. If you want the widest range of declared actives in one soft chew, MedPaw Hip & Joint Chews Max lists glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid and Boswellia serrata. It is a complementary feed, so it sits alongside veterinary care, and it is worth checking with your vet first.
How many MedPaw chews does a 33kg Hovawart need each day?
At 33kg your dog falls in the 18kg and over band, which is 2 to 3 chews a day, doubled for the first three weeks. Please follow the printed label on your tub. A tub holds 60 chews, so at 2 chews a day it lasts 30 days, and at 3 chews a day it lasts 20 days. During the doubled first three weeks, a tub lasts 15 days at 4 chews a day or 10 days at 6 chews a day.
How long should I give a joint supplement to my Hovawart before judging it?
We recommend 2 to 3 months of daily use for MedPaw, and every dog is different. It helps to jot down notes before you start, such as how easily your dog gets up, copes with the car boot and keeps pace on walks. Review them after a few weeks and again at the end of the trial. If you are worried about anything in between, speak to your vet.
Do Hovawarts get hip and elbow problems?
Like many large breeds, Hovawarts can be affected by joint concerns, but published breed-specific data is fairly thin, so we would not want to quote figures. Hip and elbow scoring through the BVA scheme is something a responsible breeder may discuss with you. If your Hovawart is limping, stiff or hesitant to jump, please book a vet appointment rather than relying on a supplement.
Is a chew better than a tablet or capsule for a Hovawart?
Format is mostly about what your dog will take happily every day. Many dogs treat a soft chew like a reward, which makes daily giving easy to keep up. Some owners prefer tablets or capsules, and that is fine, so compare the label of each product rather than assuming one format contains more.
Can I give my Hovawart puppy a joint supplement?
Most healthy puppies get what they need from a good diet and appropriate exercise. Large breeds grow quickly, and some vets do suggest early support in particular cases, so always speak to your vet before giving any supplement to a growing Hovawart. Keeping a puppy at a healthy weight and avoiding repeated jumping are sensible habits in the meantime.
