Your dog's slowing down. You've noticed.
The hesitation at the stairs. The stiffness after walks. Maybe their coat's lost its shine.
You've heard collagen might help. But when you search for "best collagen for dogs UK," you get buried in options. Powders, chews, tablets, bone broth. Type I, Type II, hydrolysed, undenatured.
How do you know what actually works?
Here's what you need to know to choose the right collagen supplement for your dog...
What Makes a Collagen Supplement "Best"?
Not all collagen is created equal. Most of it doesn't even get absorbed.
The "best" collagen supplement for your dog must tick these boxes:
1. Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides
Standard collagen molecules are too large to absorb. They pass straight through your dog's digestive system without doing anything.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are broken down into tiny pieces that actually get into the bloodstream and reach joints, skin, and connective tissue.
Studies show these peptides accumulate in cartilage and stimulate new collagen production. Standard collagen doesn't.
If a product doesn't specify "hydrolysed peptides," skip it.
2. Types I & III Collagen
These are the most abundant collagen types in your dog's body. They make up:
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Skin, bones, and tendons
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The connective tissue that stabilises joints
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The protein matrix in bones
Type II is important for cartilage, but it's only a small fraction of total body collagen. Replenishing Types I & III gives you the biggest impact.
3. No Nasty Artificial Additives
Flavourings, preservatives. These don't help your dog. They just pad out the product to increase profit margins.
Look for supplements with a short ingredient list. Ideally, just one ingredient: pure collagen.
4. Powder Form
Chews are convenient, but they need binders and additives to hold their shape. These dilute the collagen content.
Powder gives you maximum collagen per serving. No fillers. No waste. Just pure, concentrated support.
Plus, it mixes invisibly into any food. No more chews left at the bottom of the bowl.
The 3 Types of Collagen Supplements (And Which to Choose)
Pure Collagen Powder
What it is: 100% hydrolysed collagen peptides. Nothing else.
Best for:
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Daily maintenance and prevention
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Dogs of all ages
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Owners who want a single foundational supplement
Benefits: Supports joints, skin, coat, gut, and bones. Maximum collagen content (typically 6,000mg+ per serving).
Who should use it: Healthy dogs who need prevention, or as the base layer of a supplement routine.
Example: Pat's Pet Kitchen Pure Collagen
Multi-Ingredient Joint Formulas
What it is: Collagen combined with glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and anti-inflammatories.
Best for:
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Dogs with existing joint issues
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Senior dogs showing stiffness
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Large breeds prone to arthritis
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Post-surgery recovery
Benefits: Attacks joint problems from multiple angles. Collagen rebuilds structure, glucosamine supports cartilage, hyaluronic acid lubricates joints.
Who should use it: Dogs already showing signs of joint discomfort who need more than prevention.
Example: Pat's Pet Kitchen Mobility & Joints
Bone Broth Powder
What it is: Collagen (typically 40%) plus natural gelatin, minerals, and nutrients from slow-simmered bones.
Best for:
- Picky eaters who won't touch tasteless supplements
- Dogs with digestive issues
- Owners wanting a whole-food approach
- Hydration support
Benefits: Gut health, joint support, irresistible flavour. Can be mixed with water to create gravy.
Who should use it: Dogs who refuse other supplements, or those needing gut support alongside collagen.
Example: Pat's Pet Kitchen Beef Bone Broth
How to Choose Based on Your Dog's Needs
For a Healthy Young Dog (Under 5 Years)
Prevention is easier than treatment. Starting early helps maintain collagen levels before problems develop.
Large breeds especially benefit from early supplementation since they're prone to joint issues later in life.
Recommendation: Pure Collagen powder
For a Senior Dog (7+ Years) Still Active
If they're still moving well, pure collagen maintains their current state.
If you're noticing slight stiffness or slowing down, upgrade to a multi-ingredient formula for extra support.
Recommendation: Pure Collagen powder OR 6-in-1 Mobility & Joints
For a Dog with Joint Problems
They need more than just collagen. Glucosamine for cartilage, hyaluronic acid for lubrication, and anti-inflammatories for comfort.
We advice consulting your vet before introducing new supplements.
Recommendation: 6-in-1 Mobility & Joints
For a Fussy Eater
Tasteless supplements don't work if your dog won't eat them. Bone broth's irresistible beef flavour solves that problem while still delivering collagen.
Recommendation: Bone Broth Powder
What to Look For on the Label
When comparing products, check:
Collagen content per serving
More isn't always better, but you need enough to make a difference. Look for:
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Small dogs: 1,000-2,000mg
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Medium dogs: 2,000-4,000mg
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Large dogs: 4,000-6,000mg+
Serving size
Some brands use tiny servings to make their price look better. Check the recommended daily amount for your dog's weight.
Ingredient list length
Shorter is better. If there are 15 ingredients, most of them are fillers.
Country of origin
UK or EU sourcing typically means higher quality standards than some other regions.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Collagen
Mistake 1: Buying Chews Because They're "Easier"
Chews need binders, flavourings, and preservatives to hold their shape and taste good.
This dilutes the collagen content. You're paying for additives, not active ingredients.
Powder mixes invisibly into food. Your dog doesn't even know it's there. That's actually easier.
Mistake 2: Choosing Based on Price Alone
A £15 pouch with 2,000mg per serving costs more per dose than a £30 pouch with 6,000mg.
Do the maths on cost per serving, not cost per container.
Mistake 3: Not Checking If It's Hydrolysed
"Collagen" on the label doesn't mean it works. If it doesn't say "hydrolysed peptides," your dog can't absorb it.
This is the single biggest differentiator between effective and useless products.
Mistake 4: Expecting Overnight Results
Collagen isn't a painkiller. You're rebuilding tissue.
Most owners see changes around week 4. Some take 6-8 weeks. Stick with it.
How Much Collagen Do They Need?
Follow the product guidelines based on your dog's weight.
General dosing:
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Small dogs (under 10kg): 1,000-2,000mg daily
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Medium dogs (10-25kg): 2,000-4,000mg daily
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Large dogs (over 25kg): 4,000-6,000mg daily
Start with the recommended amount. Don't double up thinking more is better unless your vet advises it.
When You'll See Results
Weeks 1-2: You won't notice much yet. Keep going.
Weeks 2-4: Improved coat texture. Less scratching. Better skin condition. Some start to see movement improvements.
Weeks 4-6: Easier movement. More enthusiasm for walks. Better getting up from lying down.
Weeks 6-8+: Noticeable improvement in joint comfort. Sustained energy throughout the day.
Individual results vary based on age, breed, severity of issues, and overall health.
Can You Use Collagen With Other Supplements?
Yes. Collagen works alongside other supplements without issues.
It's a protein, not a medication. No interactions with:
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Glucosamine
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Fish oils
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Probiotics
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Multivitamins
If your dog is on medication (especially anti-inflammatories or blood thinners), check with your vet first.
The Best Collagen for Most Dogs
If you're still unsure, here's how we recommend our products:
For prevention and daily maintenance: Pure Collagen (6,000mg per serving, Types I & III, hydrolysed peptides)
For joint issues: 6-in-1 Mobility & Joints formula with Collagen + Glucosamine + Hyaluronic acid + Manganese + Vitamin C & E
For fussy eaters or gut health: Bone broth powder with 40%+ collagen content
All three should be:
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Hydrolysed for absorption
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Free from artificial ingredients
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Powder form for maximum purity
What Makes Pat's Pet Kitchen Different
We don't cut corners.
✓ Only hydrolysed peptides (because absorption matters)
✓ No fillers, no artificial flavours
✓ Vet-backed formulas
✓ Proudly made in England
✓ Tasteless powder (no more chews left in the bowl)
If it isn't good enough for you, it isn't good enough for them.
Shop Pure Collagen →
Shop Mobility & Joints →
Shop Beef Bone Broth →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is collagen safe for puppies?
Yes, puppies over 6 months can take collagen safely. It supports healthy development, especially for large breeds prone to joint issues.
For puppies under 6 months, consult your vet first.
How long does a pouch last?
Depends on your dog's size. For an average medium dog (10-25kg):
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180g tub: 30 days
Check the serving size guide on your specific product.
Does collagen help with shedding?
Yes. Many owners report less shedding after 4-6 weeks of supplementation.
Collagen strengthens the hair follicle, which can reduce excess shedding.
What if my dog doesn't like it?
Pure collagen is tasteless and odourless. Most dogs don't even notice it's there.
If your dog is extremely fussy, try tasty beef bone broth powder instead. The beef flavour makes it irresistible.
Can I give collagen and glucosamine together?
Absolutely. They work differently and complement each other.
Collagen rebuilds the entire joint structure. Glucosamine specifically supports cartilage.
Our Mobility & Joints formula combines both for dogs with existing issues.
Final Thoughts
The best collagen for your dog is the one they'll actually take, that contains hydrolysed peptides, and that you'll give consistently for 6-8 weeks minimum.
Prevention is easier than treatment. Even healthy dogs benefit from daily collagen to maintain their joint health, coat condition, and overall vitality.
Start today. Your dog's future self will thank you for it.
Last updated: December 2026
