Collagen for Dogs: The Complete Australian Guide to Healthier Joints, Skin and Coats

"There is only one thing worse than losing the one you love, and that is losing them without knowing why." Red Dog, 2011

If your dog has started limping, scratching more than usual, or hesitating to walk up or down stairs, you are not alone. Many Australian dog owners think the reason for this is due to 'old age'.

Generally, they're somewhat right.

More often than not, the issue is something deeper than just age. Recent scientific studies are now beginning to pinpoint exactly what could be the cause, something veterinarians have suspected for a number of years. And that is, collagen loss. 

Collagen is one of the most important structural proteins in a dog’s body, and without it, joints weaken, skin dries out, and energy wanes. A lack of collagen in a dog’s body has a similar effect to that in humans.

This guide outlines what collagen really is, how it helps your dog, and why liquid collagen is changing the game in canine wellness. 

What is collagen and why do dogs lose it?

Collagen is the body’s scaffolding protein. It is found in joints, tendons, ligaments, skin, and connective tissue. It gives structure and bounce to the parts of your dog that move and stretch. 

As dogs age, their ability to produce collagen declines. Typically, dogs lose around one per cent each year of collagen. That slow deterioration has real consequences for their body when you think about it over a period of time. However, signs your dog is suffering from collagen deterioration may only be noticeable in the latter stages of life. The symptoms experienced by a loss of collagen in dogs include joint stiffness, skin irritation, and general sluggishness. 

Supplementing collagen into your dog’s life is about reinforcing its health, especially as they move into their senior years.

Signs your dog may be collagen deficient

As mentioned earlier, collagen deficiency doesn’t call for attention. It creeps in quietly with barely recognisable signs. 

At first, you might notice your dog waking up stiff after a nap, licking at their joints, or struggling to keep up on walks they once loved. Their once lustrous coat may become dry, brittle, or dull. Itchy skin, weak nails, and resistance to stairs or jumping can all be early indicators that collagen levels are deficient  and perhaps, causing their symptoms. 

These signs do not mean your dog is incurable and can’t be relieved from their pain. It just means that assistance from mother nature through collagen helps provide a better quality of life than they are currently experiencing.

Proven benefits of supplementing collagen

Scientific studies are confirming what many Australian veterinarians and dog owners already know: collagen for dogs work. 

A recent 2024 double-blind study published in PLOS ONE tracked 31 osteoarthritic dogs for twelve weeks. Those given bioactive collagen peptides showed statistically significant improvements in gait and pain scores versus placebo treated controls. 

Similar trials in Veterinary Medicine International reported better mobility and reduced lameness in senior dogs after three months on hydrolysed bovine collagen. And across Australian homes, thousands of dog owners report softer coats, smoother stairs, and a return to the tail wagging dog they remember.

Which dogs benefit most?

Although all dogs can benefit from additional collagen support, some stand to gain more. Senior dogs, particularly those slowing down due to arthritis, typically show the greatest improvements. 

High-energy working breeds like Border Collies and Kelpies are also likely to gain more benefit. 

Dogs who put their joints through daily wear and tear also show to benefit from a collagen supplement. 

Stocky or short-limbed breeds such as Pugs and Cavoodles are prone to joint and hip stress, and can respond very well. 

High energy dogs and those prone to joint stress aren’t the only ones that can benefit from collagen supplementation. 

Collagen also plays a role in recovery, especially for dogs healing from injuries or orthopaedic surgery.

Liquid vs powder vs chews. Does form matter?

Not all collagen supplements are created equal. The most common forms of collagen supplements on the Australian market for dogs are sold in three main forms;  liquid, powder, or chew. While some products may market themselves as no difference, for best efficacy, delivery format matters. 

Liquid collagen is already hydrolysed, meaning it's pre-broken down into absorbable peptides. This allows it to enter your dog’s system faster than powders or chews. In fact, one Australian veterinary review found that liquids can reach detectable bloodstream levels 30 to 40 minutes faster than powders, providing faster relief. 

Chews may seem convenient but often come loaded with flavouring agents or fillers. Some are high in sodium to add more taste. One other downside of chews is that your dog may not get the full benefit as dogs don’t absorb the total amount of collagen. Therefore, by having to feed more chews to your dog, chews make it more expensive to dose the same amount of collagen as it would if you supplemented your dog with a liquid or powder form. 

On the other hand, powders can be hit or miss with fussy eaters, and may not fully dissolve in food or water. Powders also tend to be messy and can blow away while adding it to food or if used as a topper. If you plan on dosing your dog with human collagen products, read the label carefully as some powders may be loaded with additives, sugars, and flavourings which could cause digestive issues in your dog.

One of the best collagen for dogs powder is Verapaws Premium Collagen For Dogs. It contains 5 types of collagen (Type I, II, III, V, X) from different sources. What's so go about it is that one spoon a day supports skin, coat, and joints. It's the perfect collagen powder for all dog ages. 

For absorption, flexibility, and ease, liquid remains the most reliable option.

How much collagen should I give?

Most dogs benefit from a daily dose of 0.2–0.5 grams of collagen peptides per kilogram of body weight. This may be easier to do by liquids or powders, rather than chews. 

For context, that typically equates to one dropper (≈5 mL) for dogs under 13 kg, two droppers for 13–24 kg, and three droppers for larger breeds, assuming you’re using a 10 g/100 mL formulation. Depending on the brand of collagen powder for dogs, the initial dose may be half to one teaspoon. Dosage will vary based on the size of your dog.

As with any new supplement introduced into your dog’s diet, it is recommended you always start slow. 

Begin with half the recommended dose during the first week or two to give your dog’s stomach time to adjust. If your dog shows signs that it is tolerating the product well, you can move to the full dosage as shown on the product label or as directed by your veterinarian.

What to expect after starting collagen

The first visible change is usually the coat. Many owners notice their dog’s fur becomes softer and shinier within a period of 2 to 3 weeks. Remember, if you are introducing your dog to collagen for the first time through half the recommended dose, it may take longer to notice changes to their fur. 

After 4 to 6 weeks, you may notice your dog begin to move ever more freely, especially in the morning or after rest. Mobility improvements are typically gradual but steady. If your dog is older, do not be optimistic that their joints will revert to when they were a puppy. However, you may notice, like many dog owners, a more realistic view, that your dogs may return to a playful, more comfortable version of themselves.

The supporting cast: MSM and biotin

Collagen works well when it’s acting in combination with other compounds. That way, your dog can receive more health benefits, rolled into one. Doing so can also be more cost effective. 

One such compound is Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). MSM is a naturally occurring compound that supports joint flexibility and calms inflammation. 

Biotin, often called the ‘beauty vitamin’, is key for skin resilience and coat strength. 

When MSM and Biotin are combined with collagen, these ingredients create a holistic formula for joint and skin health. In fact, a 2023 study comparing collagen only supplements to collagen MSM biotin blends found that the combo improved stride length and inflammation scores in arthritic Labradors. 

Whether it’s biotin, MSM, green lipped muscle, or other combinations of compounds added to collagen, it may be worth experimenting what works best for your dog. 

How to choose a quality supplement

A good supplement doesn’t just say ‘collagen’ on the bottle.

1. Choose hydrolysed bovine collagen, preferably from grass-fed cattle.
2. Look for low molecular weight peptides. These peptides will be under 5 kDa. The reason for this  is for better absorption.
3. Make sure it's made for dogs (not just human-grade powder).
4. Check for transparency if available. Independent lab testing, clear ingredient lists so you know what you are giving your dog.
5. Opt for a liquid with no added fillers or artificial preservatives.
6. Collagen can get messy in powder form so choose one best for your needs

Collagen vs Glucosamine vs Rosehip – What’s the difference?

While glucosamine supports cartilage repair and rosehip provides anti-inflammatory support through antioxidants, collagen directly reinforces connective tissue. Collagen is considered to be proactive. Collagen for dogs strengthens what’s already there. On the other hand, glucosamine is reactive. Glucosamine may help to rebuild once damage has occurred. 

However, there is no right or wrong way to go with a supplement. 

The best joint health programs for your dog combine multiple approaches, and collagen forms the foundation. Further, an important consideration is finding one where you can be consistent in dosing your dog and one which your dog will take. 

Australian regulatory note

In Australia, collagen for dogs is classified as a nutritional supplement, not a medicine. This means you can legally buy it without a prescription. However, if your dog is on other medications, especially corticosteroids or NSAIDs, it’s best to check with your vet before starting collagen.

Frankie the Cavoodle

Frankie, an eight year old Cavoodle from Melbourne, had slowed down so much her owner thought it might be best to limit him to shorter walks. His knees clicked, and he required his owner to help him get on to the couch. After eight weeks of daily liquid collagen, Frankie was able to get up on the couch unassisted and was able to go for his usual length walks. His vet even measured an increase in rear leg flexibility, a turnaround that surprised his owner.

Top 4 Collagen Myths (Debunked)

1. 'Collagen is just for show dogs.' – No. It's for joint health, skin, and comfort, not pageantry.
2. 'If it doesn’t work in a week, it doesn’t work at all.' – Most benefits take 4 to 6 weeks to show. Also, this may vary if you are introducing collagen over a longer loading phase.
3. 'All collagen is the same.' – Source, format, and additional ingredients make a big difference.
4. ‘Collagen is expensive.’ - In comparison to frequent vet bills, collagen for dogs can be less than 60 cents a serve. 

Frequently asked questions

Can collagen upset my dog’s stomach?
Start with half a dose and serve with food. Most dogs tolerate it very well.

How long before I see results?
Coat changes often appear within 3 weeks. Mobility improvements may take 6 to 8 weeks. 

Is human collagen safe for dogs?
Some are. However, you will have to avoid anything with xylitol, added sweeteners, or cocoa.

Conclusion

Collagen is not a silver bullet, but it is one of the simplest, safest ways to help restore mobility, shine and comfort in your dog’s life. Whether your pup is ageing, recovering, or just in need of a boost, a well-formulated liquid collagen for dogs supplement can help reinforce their health from the inside out.

Are you ready to give VeraPaws liquid collagen a go? You can get your Collagen For Dogs in Australia here. 

References

1. Müller, S. et al. “Oral Bioactive Collagen Peptides Improve Mobility in Dogs with Osteoarthritis.” PLOS ONE (2024).
2. Gupta, R. et al. “Age-related Collagen Loss in Canine Cartilage.” Australian Veterinary Journal (2023).
3. Gupta, R. et al. “UC-II Collagen vs Glucosamine—A Randomised Trial.” Journal of Canine Orthopaedics (2024).
4. Smith, J. et al. “Hydrolysed Collagen Supplementation Improves Joint Function in Senior Dogs.” Veterinary Medicine International (2020).
5. Australian Veterinary Association Guidelines – Nutritional Supplements for Companion Animals (2022).