Deer Velvet Antler for Dogs: University Studies, Vet Insights & a Natural Path for Joint Comfort

Fact: Published veterinary studies and practitioner reports suggest there is a safer, well-tolerated natural option to support dogs with arthritis and joint pain—deer velvet antler—that can be considered alongside, or when appropriate, instead of long-term use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).*

*Always consult your veterinarian before changing any treatment. The following is an educational summary of studies and real-world observations—not medical advice.

The Problem at a Glance

• Osteoarthritis is common: Estimates suggest over 15 million dogs in the USA are living with osteoarthritis, experiencing stiffness and pain with movement.
• Senior & large breeds at risk: Veterinarians report osteoarthritis affects more than 80% of older dogs and is frequent in larger breeds. However, dogs of all sizes and ages can be affected.

About NSAIDs: Benefits & Known Risks

NSAIDs are widely used for canine pain and inflammation, but like all medications they can have side effects. Regulatory agencies require label warnings regarding potential risks, and veterinarians often recommend periodic bloodwork to monitor safety—especially for breeds with known sensitivities.

Veterinarian Dr. Cathy Alinovi notes:

“Every time a veterinarian prescribes any NSAID, that dog is at risk of intestinal, kidney and even liver damaging side effects. And Labradors are worse! (Why? Genetics.) This is why, most vets will recommend periodic bloodwork to ‘be sure’ there aren’t complications. However, this isn’t fool proof. Cats are even more at risk – their liver just can’t detoxify the medications.”

Enter Deer Velvet Antler

Deer velvet antler is the soft, rapidly growing antler of deer or elk, harvested under veterinary supervision before it calcifies into bone. In this “velvet” phase it contains a natural matrix of amino acids, growth factors, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), lipids, minerals, and trace elements that are relevant to joint health and overall vitality. Deer regrow antlers annually, making velvet a renewable and sustainable resource when harvested ethically.

What the Studies Report

Study 1 — University of Montreal (Canada), published in Canadian Veterinary Journal (2004)

Design: Client-owned dogs with osteoarthritis; randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled field study.

• Groups: 13 dogs received placebo for 30 days then elk velvet antler for 60 days; an additional 25 dogs received elk velvet antler for 60 days.
• Measures: Force-plate gait analysis, orthopedic exam, daily activity/vitality (owner assessment), and full bloodwork at baseline and follow-ups.
• Findings: No significant improvement on placebo; significant improvements on elk velvet antler in gait parameters, daily activity, and vitality. No adverse changes on blood analyses were reported.
• Conclusion: Administration of elk velvet antler was effective in alleviating osteoarthritic signs in dogs within the study period.

Study 2 — Douglas County Animal Hospital (MN, USA) with University of Minnesota (2007)

Design: Clinical field trial in dogs diagnosed (radiographs/orthopedic exam) with traumatic and/or degenerative joint disease across hips, stifles, shoulders, carpi, and elbows.

• Sample: 45 dogs (70 affected limbs) scored on nine mobility criteria at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks.
• Analysis: Wilcoxon Signed Ranks non-parametric statistics (Dr. Carl Jessen, University of Minnesota).
• Findings: Dogs treated with velvet antler showed statistically significant improvement in range of motion and orthopedic scores for walking, trotting, running, and stair climbing. Per-joint analysis showed significant improvement in shoulder, stifle, and hip pain/movement.

Together, these studies support the view that deer velvet antler can be a well-tolerated, natural option to support mobility and quality of life in dogs with osteoarthritis. Individual results will vary, and veterinary guidance is essential.

How Owners and Vets Often Use Velvet Antler

• As part of a daily joint-support routine (with diet, weight management, controlled exercise).
• To help maintain mobility, flexibility, and activity in aging or active dogs.
• When looking for a well-tolerated supplement to support comfort over time.

Note: If your dog is on prescription medications or has underlying conditions, consult your veterinarian about appropriate integration and monitoring.

Explore Deer Velvet Joint Support for Dogs

Disclaimer: This article is educational and not a substitute for veterinary advice. Products described are dietary supplements, not medicines. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.