I have personally witnessed the miracle that shark cartilage provides to dogs who have gone lame from the pain of arthritis and recovered through using shark cartilage within ONE WEEK. And that has been sustained for the latter HALF OF THEIR LIFE.
What makes this more amazing is that one of the major sources of information globally the GOOGLE search engine has been influenced by shark lobbyist so well that they when questioned, it provides the unhelpful response of “I'm unable to provide information about potentially risky or harmful pet treatments like shark cartilage for dogs.” (2024).
They are so bought and sold by these niche conservationists that they even ban shark cartilage from ANY google adwords campaigns. They apparently don’t need the money.
Meanwhile Microsoft’s bing search engine is happy to tell you the facts. When asked about shark cartilage they say “In recent years, shark cartilage has gained attention as a natural and nutritious treat option for dogs. Derived from the cartilage of sharks, these treats offer a unique blend of nutrients and potential health benefits for our canine companions. ”
Suffice to say, before we look at the unique benefits of shark cartilage for dogs, that in most developed countries, endangered sharks are completely protected by legislation, and the other sharks are protected by maximum catch quotas.
But like any product the black market exists that won’t do the right thing. We are talking about shark cartilage from the large shark populations that are not endangered and who’s shark cartilage provide amazing benefits for our companion animals, the domestic dog.
Note we also sell whole sardines to our clients who want exceptional clean protein for their dog. Sardines in certain parts of the world are also over-fished. However, our source use fishing companies that care about their environment and want to keep sustainably fishing. Whole Sardine won’t provide exceptional joint support, but they do have high levels of good oil, and Omega 3 in particular.
Shark cartilage for dog’s benefits
With limited space in this article we will summarise the main benefits, not just the ingredients inside of the shark cartilage
1 Chondroitin and Glucosamine:
These two NATURAL chemicals are what deliver the maximum benefit to joint support (chondroitin sulfate) and pain relief (glucosamine) to your dog. These two ingredients are so common, that they are readily available in capsule form for human use at your local chemist, without script.
AND you can get refined shark cartilage (with all the other amazing alkaloids removed) as just these two chemicals in powdered form in plastic jars at your pet store or vets.
The reason I list this in the first benefit position, is that this these two chemicals and their effectiveness are what has shark cartilage be one of our healthy top sellers in our treat store. The combination of cartilage rebuilding chondroitin both help maintain joint health, mobility, and flexibility in dogs.
BUT even if damage has been done, they help rebuild the dog cartilage to re-support the bones. In combination with sufficient calcium (either from dog bones or in commercial dog food) these chemicals are responsible for most dogs recovering from arthritis or joint issues.
2 Shark Cartilage PROTEIN value.
Most dogs fed on a commercial dog food diet, get the bare minimum 18% protein (by dry weight) as listed by aafco. When bio -availability is taken into account, this can create a short-fall for many types of dogs.
Because most dog foods contain the most common (cheap) forms of farmed animals (beef or chicken) their over use can lead to some allergic reactions. Either large or virtually unnoticeable such as light skin rashes, but none the less, causing discomfort to your dog, who often won’t complain to you.
Shark cartilage protein is rare enough that it is considered hypo-allergenic, meaning most dogs will not react badly to it, and it will be highly bio available. Shark cartilage is not as protein rich as a straight meat jerky, but that isn’t the main reason you are buying it, its just an added bonus. Protein is vital for muscle development, tissue repair, and the overall health of your dog.
3 Shark Cartilage DOG DENTAL HELP
Shark cartilage is a 100% natural, organic animal-based tooth brush. Unlike fake moulded vegetable tooth brushes made by large corporations mainly for large margins, this natural blessing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
The chewing of the sticks also prevents gum disease, and helps maintain fresh breath.
4 Shark cartilage MINERALS
While you can get minerals (ie basic elements) from plant matter. Most animal food sources are much more bio-available (able to be digested and easily used) by your dog’s body. And that is why shark cartilage, that is high in calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium is so handy.
While the chondroitin is helping fix up dog cartilage to support the bones, the calcium in shark cartilage is also contributing to bone health, dental health, and overall well-being in dogs (it is used in many processes in the dog such as - bone strength, nerve function and tooth enamel.
But if shark cartilage is so good for dogs, why don’t humans have an equivalent version?
I am glad you asked. It turns out that ‘iherb’ stocks a few varieties.
This is what they provide in their description, for HUMANS:
Description
- Promotes Skeletal Health
- Naturally Occurring Mucopolysaccharides and Calcium
- Non-GMO, A Dietary Supplement
- General Health,
“Shark Cartilage is an excellent source of Calcium and also has naturally occurring Mucopolysaccharides, which are also known as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). GAGs are the components of cartilage tissue that lubricate and cushion joints against shock. Due to its high Calcium content, Shark Cartilage also helps to promote skeletal health. Now Shark Cartilage is derived from pure freeze dried backbone of sharks that are harvested and used for food purposes. .” (iherb)
Suggested HUMAN use: Take 6 x 750 mg capsules daily, preferably in divided doses.
The sticks Healthy Dog Treats sell are from the fin and weigh about 8 g each. For a 20 kg dog I had my guy on two of these sticks per day (maintenance level).
Because a dog is often more acrobatic than the average human, and their rear leg design is susceptible to doing ACL’s this is a good level to use.
You would almost think that if shark cartilage had no redeemable value that Iherb (an American company) wouldn’t be selling this product in America and around the world, with such great claims (just for humans alone) !
So in summary, yes, it works for dogs. I have SEEN it work, reduce lameness and pain, in very old dogs !
CONCLUSION
Is solving your dog’s joint issues important to you?
Do you want them to have clean teeth safely, and when they swallow the treat, for it to actually be a positive nutritional benefit through great protein and mineral composition?
What if I told you about the bonus glossy coat and brain and heart health through high levels of Omega 3? Yes, shark cartilage can also help alleviate dog dry skin, itching, or inflammation.
Now you can stop wondering why shark cartilage for dogs is one of the most popular treats around. Just buy from a trusted source, and you are done.
