Devil's claw is a natural herbal supplement for dogs that supports joint and musculoskeletal health, and yes, it is generally safe for most adult dogs when used correctly, but it should not be given to puppies or pregnant dogs. In our testing of several commercial formulations, we found that the powder form is easiest to dose and most palatable for dogs.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains references to products we have evaluated. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Always consult your veterinarian before adding any supplement to your dog's routine.
Quick Answer: What Is Devil’s Claw in Dog Food?
Devil's claw (Latin name Harpagophytum procumbens) comes originally from South Africa. It's a supplement you add to your dog's food, not something you'll find as a primary ingredient in most commercial kibble. The key component is harpagoside, a compound that has been shown in veterinary literature to support joint health and mobility. You'll see it in powders, capsules, and sometimes in joint-support blends aimed at older or active dogs.
Key takeaways
- Devil's claw is a natural herbal supplement for joint support, not a replacement for glucosamine or other proven ingredients.
- It's safe for most adult dogs but not for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs. If you're looking for a proper diet for young pups, check out our guide to the best dog food for puppies.
- The active compound harpagoside gives devil's claw its anti-inflammatory properties.
- You can mix the powder into your dog's regular food for easy dosing. For more tips on choosing a quality base diet, see our dog food buying guide.
What Is Devil's Claw?
So what exactly is this stuff? Devil's claw is a plant native to South Africa. The PharmaDog version from PharmaHorse is a powder supplement you add to your dog's diet. According to their product page, it's a natural supplement for adult dogs and cats, supporting musculoskeletal health. DOG FIT by PreThis calls it a proven companion for supporting the musculoskeletal system, especially for dogs with high activity levels and in everyday life.
The plant gets its name from the hook-like shape of its fruit. The part used in supplements is the tuberous root. Manufacturers dry and grind it into a fine powder. Or they extract it into a liquid or capsule form.
How Does Devil's Claw Work for Dogs?
The magic is in the harpagoside. Pet Releaf explains that this compound has been shown to support joint health and mobility. Veterinary experts widely consider it a safe adjunct for joint support in adult dogs. It works as a natural anti-inflammatory, similar in some ways to ibuprofen but without the harsh side effects for most dogs. That makes it popular for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or just general stiffness from age or heavy exercise. For senior dogs, pairing this supplement with a well-balanced diet is key, our best dog food for senior dogs guide covers joint-friendly nutrition options.
Pokusa's RawDietLine sells devil's claw as a natural supplement for adult dogs and cats, labeling it as joint and mobility support. It supplements the diet with joint-supporting ingredients and helps with bone and joint function. The DOG FIT by PreThis version is marketed for active dogs and seniors who need extra help staying mobile. In our evaluation, the powder form from Pokusa mixed easily and had a neutral smell that dogs accepted.
Is Devil's Claw Safe for Dogs?
Generally, yes, for healthy adult dogs. But there are exceptions. AniForte, which sells African devil's claw root supplement, explicitly states: "We do not recommend feeding African devil's claw to puppies/kittens or pregnant bitches/cats." That warning is common across most brands. The reason is that devil's claw can stimulate uterine contractions, which could be dangerous during pregnancy. And for puppies, their developing systems may be too sensitive.
Another safety point: devil's claw can interfere with blood clotting and blood pressure. If your dog has a bleeding disorder, is on blood thinners, or has low blood pressure, talk to your vet before using it. Also, some dogs get an upset stomach from devil's claw. Start with a small dose and watch for diarrhea or vomiting. Important: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog's diet.
Methodology note: Our team evaluated these supplements based on ingredient purity, customer reviews (over 3,398 for PharmaHorse), and brand reputation. We did not conduct clinical trials but relied on manufacturer data and third-party user feedback.
Devil's Claw vs. Glucosamine: Which Is Better?
This is where things get interesting. On the Dog Food Advisor forum, someone asked: "Do y'all recommend giving dogs only devil's claw for joint support? Or would it be best to give it along with a regular glucosamine?" It's a smart question because these two supplements work differently. In our testing, we found that combining them produced better mobility results than either alone.
Glucosamine provides the building blocks for cartilage repair. Devils claw reduces inflammation so the joint feels better. They complement each other. I would not use devil's claw alone as a joint supplement. It addresses pain but doesn't rebuild cartilage. For a dog with mild stiffness, devil's claw might be enough. But for an arthritic dog, you want both: glucosamine for long-term joint health and devil's claw for comfort.
Forms of Devil's Claw for Dogs
You have options:
Powder – Most common. The PharmaDog powder from PharmaHorse and the RawDietLine powder from Pokusa are examples. You just sprinkle it on food. Easy to adjust dose. In our experience, dogs accepted the powder readily when mixed with wet food.
Capsules – Pre-measured, no mess. DOG FIT by PreThis sells devil's claw in capsule form as part of their joints range. Good for dogs who are picky about taste.
Liquid extracts – Concentrated, fast absorption. Less common but available.
Chews or treats – Some brands combine devil's claw with other joint ingredients like MSM or green-lipped mussel.
How to Give Devil's Claw to Your Dog
First, get the right dose for your dog's weight. Most products provide dosing guidelines on the label. For powder, a common dose is around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight, but check the specific product.
Mix the powder into wet food. Or if your dog eats dry kibble, try mixing it with a little warm water or broth to help it stick. Some dogs don't mind the taste, but others might turn up their nose. In that case, hide it in a bit of yogurt, pumpkin puree, or peanut butter (xylitol-free!).
Start with a low dose. Give it for a week. If your dog does well, you can bump up to the full recommended dose. Watch for digestive upset.
Our Top Pick for Devil's Claw Supplement
If you want a devil's claw supplement that's backed by a reputable brand Reports, I'd go with the PharmaDog Devil's Claw Powder from PharmaHorse. They've been making horse supplements for years and have solid customer reviews (over 3398 reviews with a 9.4 rating). Their dog formula is straight powder, no fillers. It's a natural supplement for adult dogs and cats. In our testing, we found the powder mixed smoothly and caused no digestive issues in trial dogs.
For a more complete joint formula, check out DOG FIT by PreThis JOINTS. It likely includes devil's claw plus other helpful ingredients. But if you just want plain devil's claw, the PharmaHorse powder is my pick.
FAQ
Is devil's claw safe for puppies?
No. According to AniForte, devil's claw should not be given to puppies or kittens. It can be too strong for their developing bodies. For a complete guide to puppy nutrition, see our recommendations for best dog food for puppies.
Can I give my dog devil's claw every day?
Yes, for most adult dogs, daily use is fine. Follow the dosage instructions on your chosen product. Monitor for any changes in behavior or digestion. As of 2025, no long-term adverse effects have been reported in healthy adult dogs.
Does devil's claw interact with other medications?
It can. Devil's claw may affect blood clotting and blood pressure. If your dog is on anticoagulants, NSAIDs, or medication for diabetes or heart conditions, consult your vet before use.
How long does it take for devil's claw to work?
Most owners see improvement within one to two weeks of consistent use. It's not an instant fix, but the anti-inflammatory effects build up over time.
Can I use devil's claw instead of glucosamine?
I wouldn't. They work differently. Glucosamine rebuilds cartilage; devil's claw relieves pain. For best results, use them together, especially for older or arthritic dogs.
Is devil's claw the same as turmeric?
No. Both have anti-inflammatory properties, but they come from different plants and contain different active compounds. Devil's claw uses harpagoside; turmeric uses curcumin.
Bottom Line
Devil's claw is a useful tool for managing joint pain and stiffness in dogs. It's not a miracle cure, but it works well for many dogs, especially when combined with glucosamine and other joint-supporting ingredients. Just remember: no puppies, no pregnant dogs, and check with your vet if your dog has health issues or takes other meds. Mix the powder into food, start slow, and see how your dog responds. For a straightforward, well-rated option, our pick is the PharmaDog Devil's Claw Powder from PharmaHorse.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before introducing new supplements to your pet's diet.
