Deer Antler Velvet Canine Vitality: Reviving the "Old Dog" (Dosage & Protocol)
by Jason J. Duke - Owner/Artisan
Fresh Content: December 5, 2025 22:26
Bringing the Puppy Back
Your dog isn't just "getting old"—their structural fuel tank is running low. Deer Antler Velvet (DAV) is nature's premier reservoir of Joint Scaffolding (Collagen, Glucosamine, Chondroitin) and Vitality Factors. This isn't about masking discomfort; it's about refilling the tank to support fluid hips, stable gait, and the joyful energy of their prime.
The "Coat & Gait" Test: Visible Vitality
Unlike humans, dogs cannot tell us they feel better. But they show us. The efficacy of Deer Antler Velvet in canines is often more obvious than in humans because it manifests physically in two distinct ways:
1. The Gait: Watch their hips. The "wobble" or hesitation to jump into the car often transforms into fluid, confident movement. This is the result of Joint Lubrication (Hyaluronic Acid) and Cartilage Support (Type II Collagen) restoring the structural integrity of the movement.
2. The Coat: The "Velvet" in the antler is rich in lipids and growth factors. When a dog absorbs these, their fur often undergoes a transformation—becoming shinier, softer, and more vibrant. This is the external sign that the internal "Jing" (Constitutional Essence) is being restored.
Structural Fuel vs. Pain Relief
Many pet owners turn to NSAIDs or painkillers when their dogs slow down. These mask the signal but do not repair the structure. Deer Antler Velvet operates on a different principle: Structural Fortification.
By providing the raw materials for bone density (Calcium/Phosphorus matrix) and connective tissue (GAGs), you are supporting the body's own ability to maintain the "Shock Absorbers" of the hips and knees. It is not a numb-er; it is a build-er.
The Canine Dosage Calculator
Dosage is weight-dependent. Use this chart to determine the "Vitality Maintenance" dose for your companion. Note: "Sika" is more concentrated, requiring a smaller dose than "Red Deer/Elk."
| Dog Weight (lbs) | Sika Dose (High Potency) | Red Deer / Elk Dose (Structural) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs (Small) | 125 mg | 250 mg |
| 20 lbs (Medium) | 250 mg | 500 mg |
| 40 lbs (Large) | 500 mg | 1,000 mg (1g) |
| 60 lbs (X-Large) | 750 mg | 1,250 mg (1.25g) |
| 90+ lbs (Giant) | 1,000 mg (1g) | 1,500 mg (1.5g) |
The "Food Hack" Administration Protocol
Don't force a pill. Enhance the meal.
- The Carrier: Use a high-quality wet food, bone broth, or a raw egg as the carrier. The fats in these foods help absorb the lipid-soluble factors in the velvet.
- The Mix: Break open the capsule (or measure the powder). Sprinkle it evenly over the carrier.
- The Engagement: Mix it in. Most dogs enjoy the scent, as it is a natural animal product. It triggers a primal appetite, not a medicine aversion.
Common Questions
Can I use the liquid extract for my dog?
Yes, but be mindful of the alcohol content. For large dogs, a dropper is negligible. For small dogs, you may want to evaporate the alcohol by putting the drops in warm water/broth for 5 minutes before serving.
How long until I see the "puppy" return?
Look for the "Gait Shift" around week 2-3 of consistent loading. The "Coat Shift" usually becomes visible around week 4 as new fur growth cycles in.