What is collagen, and why does my dog need it?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your dog's body. It makes up 30% of their total protein.
Think of it as the scaffolding that holds everything together: joints, skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and gut lining.
Young dogs produce plenty of collagen naturally. As they age, production slows down. This causes:
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Joint stiffness and reduced mobility
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Dull, dry coat
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Skin issues
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Weaker connective tissue
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Digestive problems
Supplementing helps replenish what they're losing.
How does collagen benefit my dog?
Collagen supports five main areas:
1. Joints & Mobility: Provides building blocks for cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Supports cushioning and flexibility in joints.
2. Skin & Coat: Maintains skin elasticity and hydration. Results in a shinier, softer coat and healthier skin barrier.
3. Digestive Health: The amino acids (especially glycine) help maintain gut lining integrity. Supports healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
4. Nail & Paw Health: Strengthens nails from within. Less breakage and cracking.
5. Bone Strength: Provides the protein matrix within bones. Essential for density and structural robustness.
At what age should I start giving my dog collagen?
Puppies over 6 months: Safe to start, especially for large breeds prone to joint issues.
Adult dogs (1-7 years): Ideal for prevention. Easier to maintain collagen levels than rebuild them later.
Senior dogs (7+ years): Critical. Natural production drops significantly, making supplementation essential.
Starting early prevents problems. Starting late manages them.
For puppies under 6 months, consult your vet first.
Is collagen safe for dogs?
Yes. Collagen is a natural protein already present in your dog's body.
It's not a medication. It's a nutritional supplement made from animal sources (typically beef or pork).
Side effects are rare. The most common is mild digestive upset if you start with too high a dose.
If your dog is on medication or has health conditions, consult your vet before starting any supplement.
What's the difference between collagen types (I, II, III)?
Type I & III: Most abundant in the body. Found in:
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Skin, bones, tendons
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Ligaments and connective tissue
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Blood vessels
These make up 80-90% of your dog's total collagen.
Type II: Specialised for cartilage in joints. Important but represents a small fraction of total collagen.
Most supplements focus on Types I & III because replenishing these gives the broadest benefits. Some joint-specific formulas include Type II for targeted cartilage support.
What are hydrolysed collagen peptides?
Regular collagen molecules are too large for your dog to absorb. They're insoluble and resistant to digestive enzymes.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides are broken down through a process called hydrolysis. This creates tiny pieces (peptides) small enough to:
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Pass through the gut wall
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Enter the bloodstream
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Reach joints, skin, and connective tissue
Studies show these peptides accumulate in cartilage and stimulate new collagen production.
Bottom line: If a product doesn't say "hydrolysed peptides," it probably won't work.
How do I choose the right collagen supplement?
Look for these four things:
1. Hydrolysed collagen peptides - ensures absorption
2. Types I & III collagen - broadest benefits for whole body
3. Powder form - maximum purity, no fillers needed
4. Clean ingredients - short ingredient list, no artificial additives
Avoid:
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Undenatured collagen (different mechanism, works for some things but not general health)
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Chews with long ingredient lists (diluted collagen content)
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Vague labelling that doesn't specify peptides or types
What's better: powder, chews, or tablets?
Powder is best for most dogs.
Why:
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Maximum collagen content per serving
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Mixes invisibly into any food
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Accurate dosing
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Tasteless (won't affect picky eaters)
Chews need additives to hold their shape. This dilutes collagen content and adds unnecessary ingredients.
Tablets are hard to dose accurately for different dog sizes.
The only exception: if your dog genuinely enjoys chews as treats and you want to use them for training. But you'll need more of them to match the collagen content of powder.
How much collagen should I give my dog?
Depends on their weight:
Small dogs (under 10kg): 1,000-2,000mg daily
Medium dogs (10-25kg): 2,000-4,000mg daily
Large dogs (over 25kg): 4,000-6,000mg daily
Follow your specific product's dosing guide. These are general ranges.
Start at the recommended dose. Don't double up thinking more is better unless your vet advises it.
How do I give collagen to my dog?
For powder supplements:
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Measure the recommended amount using the scoop / measuring spoon
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Sprinkle over wet or dry food
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Mix in or leave on top
That's it.
Our Collagen powder is tasteless and odourless. Most dogs don't even notice it's there. This can be an issue with cheaper Collagen - it can have a nasty taste and smell to it.
If your dog is particularly fussy:
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Mix with water first to create a paste
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Start with a smaller amount and gradually increase
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Try bone broth powder instead (has flavour)
When should I give it - morning or evening?
Doesn't matter. Timing isn't important.
Give it whenever you feed your dog. Pick one time and stick with it so you remember.
Consistency matters more than timing.
Can I mix collagen with other food or supplements?
Yes to both.
Food: Works with wet, dry, or raw food. Mix it in or sprinkle on top.
Supplements: Collagen works alongside:
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Glucosamine
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Fish oils/Omega-3
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Probiotics
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Multivitamins
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Joint supplements
No interactions. It's a protein, not a medication.
If your dog is on medication (especially anti-inflammatories or blood thinners), check with your vet first.
Our Mobility & Joints combines 6 powerful ingredients (including Glucosamine) engineered to support joint health.
How long until I see results?
Most owners notice changes around week 4.
Here's the typical timeline:
Week 1-2: No visible changes yet. Keep going.
Week 2-3: Improved coat texture, reduced itching
Week 4-6: Better mobility, easier standing, more enthusiasm for walks
Week 6-8+: Noticeable joint comfort, sustained energy
Some dogs respond faster. Some take 6-8 weeks. Depends on:
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Age
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Severity of issues
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Overall health
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Diet quality
This isn't a painkiller. You're rebuilding. Give it time.
What signs show collagen is working?
Look for:
Joint improvements:
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Getting up from lying down more easily
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Less hesitation on stairs
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More playful behaviour
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Longer walks without tiring
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Less stiffness after rest
Coat changes:
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Shinier, softer fur
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Less scratching
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Better skin condition
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Reduced shedding
Energy:
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More enthusiasm for activities
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Better stamina
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Improved mood
Don't expect dramatic overnight changes. Improvements are gradual.
My dog seems the same after 2 weeks. Should I stop?
No. Keep going.
Two weeks isn't long enough. You're rebuilding tissue, not masking symptoms with painkillers.
Stick with it for at least 6-8 weeks before deciding if it's working.
If you see no changes after 8 weeks, email us. We'll help troubleshoot.
How long should my dog take collagen?
Forever Collagen isn't a short-term treatment. It's a maintenance supplement.
Natural production declines with age. Supplementing helps maintain levels throughout their life.
There's no need to cycle on and off. Continuous use is recommended.
Can I give too much collagen?
Technically yes, but it's hard to accidentally overdose.
Collagen is a protein. Excess gets broken down and eliminated naturally.
Signs you're giving too much (rare):
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Digestive upset
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Diarrhoea
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Constipation
If this happens, reduce the dose. Start with half the recommended amount and gradually increase.
For dogs with kidney issues, protein intake matters. Consult your vet before supplementing.
Are there side effects?
Side effects are extremely rare with collagen.
We rarely see mild digestive upset when starting.
How to avoid this:
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Start with half the recommended dose for the first week
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Gradually increase to full dose over 7-10 days
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This lets their digestive system adjust
Other potential issues (very rare):
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Allergic reaction (if allergic to the source - beef, pork, fish)
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Increased thirst (collagen can be slightly dehydrating)
If your dog becomes unwell after starting collagen, stop and consult your vet.
Can puppies take collagen?
Over 6 months: Yes, generally safe.
Under 6 months: Consult your vet first.
Young puppies produce plenty of collagen naturally. They don't usually need supplementation.
Exception: Large breed puppies prone to joint issues (German Shepherds, Labradors, Great Danes) may benefit from early prevention.
Is collagen safe for pregnant or nursing dogs?
There's limited research on collagen supplementation during pregnancy and lactation.
Our recommendation: Consult your vet before starting collagen if your dog is pregnant or nursing.
Err on the side of caution during this critical period.
Can dogs with health conditions take collagen?
Please check with your vet first before introducing new supplements to their diet, especially if your dog has:
Kidney disease: Collagen is protein. Dogs with kidney issues need controlled protein intake.
Diabetes: No known issues.
Arthritis: Actually beneficial - collagen supports joint structure.
Food allergies: Check the source (beef, pork, fish). Avoid if your dog is allergic to the collagen source.
Digestive issues: Collagen often helps, but start with a low dose.
When in doubt, ask your vet.
Does collagen interact with medications?
Collagen is a food supplement, not a medication. No known interactions with most drugs.
Extra caution if your dog takes:
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Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
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Blood thinners
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Immunosuppressants
Not because there are interactions, but because you should tell your vet about any supplements when managing serious conditions.
Collagen vs Glucosamine - which is better for my dog?
They work differently. Neither is "better" - they do different jobs.
Glucosamine:
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Specifically supports cartilage
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Helps with joint lubrication
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Targets one component of joint health
Collagen:
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Rebuilds entire joint structure (cartilage, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue)
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Also supports skin, coat, bones, gut
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Broader benefits
For existing joint issues: Use both together. They complement each other.
For prevention: Collagen alone is usually sufficient.
Our Mobility & Joints formula combines collagen + glucosamine + hyaluronic acid for comprehensive joint support.
What's the difference between Pure Collagen and Mobility & Joints?
Pure Collagen:
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100% hydrolysed collagen peptides (6,000mg)
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Nothing else
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For prevention and daily maintenance
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Supports joints, skin, coat, gut, bones
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All ages, all dogs
Mobility & Joints:
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Collagen (2,500mg) + 5 other ingredients
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Glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C & E, manganese
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For dogs with existing joint issues
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Attacks problems from multiple angles
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Senior dogs, breeds prone to arthritis, post-surgery recovery
Which do you need?
Healthy dog, no issues → Pure Collagen
Dog showing stiffness → Mobility & Joints
Severe joint problems → Mobility & Joints (possibly both, consult vet)
Should I use Bone Broth instead of Pure Collagen?
Depends on your priorities.
Bone Broth:
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40% collagen + natural gelatin + minerals
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Whole-food approach
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Irresistible flavour
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Great for gut health
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Good for picky eaters
Pure Collagen:
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100% collagen (6,000mg per serving)
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Maximum collagen content
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Tasteless
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Clinical-grade supplement
Use Bone Broth if:
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Your dog won't eat tasteless supplements
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You want gut health support
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You prefer whole-food supplements
Use Pure Collagen if:
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You want maximum collagen concentration
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Your dog eats anything
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You want the most cost-effective option per mg of collagen
Use both if:
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You want maximum support
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Budget allows
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Your dog needs both joint support and gut health
Can I use your collagen with other brands' supplements?
Yes.
Our collagen works alongside any other non-collagen supplements:
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Other brands' glucosamine
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Fish oils
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Probiotics
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Joint supplements
If you're using another collagen product, you probably don't need both. Pick one and stick with it.
Is your collagen suitable for dogs with beef allergies?
No.
Our Pure Collagen and Mobility & Joints are made from bovine (beef) collagen.
If your dog has a beef allergy, do not use these products.
Our Bone Broth is also beef-based.
For dogs with beef allergies, look for marine (fish) or porcine (pork) collagen supplements.
Is it suitable for vegan/vegetarian dogs?
No.
True collagen can only come from animal sources. It's a protein structure found in connective tissue.
"Vegan collagen" doesn't exist. Some products call themselves that, but they contain collagen precursors (amino acids) not actual collagen.
If you're feeding your dog a vegan diet, consult a veterinary nutritionist about alternatives.
Do I need to refrigerate collagen after opening?
No.
Store in a cool, dry place with the zipper tightly sealed.
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Use within 3 months of opening for best quality.
Why are there brown bits in my Mobility & Joints powder?
Those are Vitamin C particles.
Completely normal and safe. They distribute the vitamins evenly through the powder.
Give the pouch a shake before serving to distribute evenly.
The powder clumped together. Is it still good?
Yes, still safe to use.
Clumping happens when moisture gets into the powder (humid environment, not sealed properly, wet spoon).
Break up the clumps and use normally. Make sure to seal the pouch tightly after each use.
To prevent clumping:
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Use a dry spoon every time
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Close lid immediately after use
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Store in low-humidity area
Can I dissolve collagen in water and give it as a drink?
Yes.
Collagen powder dissolves in water (warm water dissolves it faster).
Some dogs will drink it. Most prefer it mixed into food where they don't notice it.
Our Bone Broth is designed specifically for this - mix with warm water to create a savoury gravy.
My dog eats raw food. Can I still use collagen?
Absolutely.
Sprinkle it directly onto raw meals. It won't affect the food's nutritional balance.
Works with any diet: raw, kibble, wet food, homemade.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for?
Email us: hello@patspetkitchen.com
We're here to help you choose the right product and get the best results for your dog.
Ready to Get Started?
For daily maintenance
Pure Collagen → Clean, simple, effective. For dogs of all ages.
For joint issues
Mobility & Joints → Our advanced 6-in-1 formula for dogs showing signs of stiffness.
For gut health & fussy eaters
Beef Bone Broth → 40% collagen plus natural gelatin. They'll lick the bowl clean.
Last updated: December 2024
