Native to the New Zealand coast, and used by indigenous communities for centuries due to their healing properties, green lipped mussels are a species of mussel with a distinctive green stripe around their shell. They are highly nutritious and are a common ingredient in dietary supplements and topical ointments to treat joint problems like arthritis in both humans and dogs. At The Raw Dog Food Co, we always recommend supplementing your dog’s diet with green lipped mussels - and here’s why.
They are packed with nutrients
Green lipped mussels are considered a superfood. They have anti-inflammatory properties and contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids and more. This makes them an ideal addition to your dog’s diet.
They actively aid joint function
Not only do green lipped mussels help to soothe inflammation and ease pain in arthritic joints, they actively build healthier joints - so it’s advisable to incorporate them into your dog’s diet at any age. Green lipped mussels are rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), including chondroitin sulfate, which strengthens joint capsules and protects them from wear and tear.
They have also been recognised as the best source of omega-3 fatty acids, meaning lower amounts are needed to have the same benefits. Green lipped mussels also contain more types of fatty acids than other, more commonly known sources like fish oil. It’s these fatty acids that reduce inflammation in your dog’s joints meaning less pain, and more mobility.
They are natural and sustainable
Green lipped mussels are a natural health product. If your dog has already been diagnosed with arthritis or other joint problems, green lipped mussels are a natural, healthy alternative to costly medications - and they have no known negative side effects (other than for those who have a shellfish allergy). Green lipped mussels are harvested in a way that causes no harm to other marine life, meaning they’re environmentally sustainable to produce. What’s more, they’re grown in crystal clear waters right here in New Zealand.
They’re easy to use in your dog’s diet
Our Green lipped mussels are specially air-dried to lock in all of the powerful nutrients (and flavour) making it an easy to use, simple addition to your dog’s meal or as a delicious treat! We like to add one or two to our dog’s meal for variety or as a daily supplement for arthritic joints your pet may have or as a useful anti-inflammatory. To find out more about the different components of a raw diet, please read The Raw Dog Food Co’s feeding guide. When you’re ready to order, our premium quality, locally and ethically sourced products can be delivered to your door at a time that suits you.