Ligaplex® II for Dogs by Standard Process: Joint Health, Mobility, Care & Prevention
If your dog is slowing down, getting stiff after rest, or struggling with mobility, joint and connective tissue support matters more than ever. I often use Ligaplex® II by Standard Process when I want to support the skeletal system, connective tissues, and healthy movement using whole food nutrition.
This is not a pain medication. It is a nutrient based supplement designed to nourish the tissues that support joints, ligaments, and overall structure. When the body has the right building blocks, it can maintain strength, flexibility, and comfort more effectively.
Let’s walk through what Ligaplex® II is, how it works, and when it may be helpful for your dog.
What Is Ligaplex® II by Standard Process?
Ligaplex® II is a connective tissue and joint support supplement formulated to help maintain healthy skeletal tissues and support movement. It provides essential nutrients that the body uses to form, maintain, and repair connective tissues such as ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and joint structures.
It is made by Standard Process, a company that has focused on whole food based nutrition since 1929. Ligaplex® II combines ingredients from several classic Standard Process formulas, including Cardiotrophin PMG®, Ostrophin PMG®, Manganese B12™, Super-EFF®, and Cataplex® E, into one targeted supplement.
This formula is commonly used for dogs that need extra support for joints, posture, structural strength, or recovery.
Key Benefits of Ligaplex® II for Dogs
Ligaplex® II supports more than just joints. It provides foundational nutrition for connective tissues throughout the body.
Supports connective tissue health
Connective tissue includes ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and the supportive framework around joints. Ligaplex® II provides nutrients involved in maintaining the integrity and resilience of these tissues.
Helps maintain healthy movement
By supporting skeletal tissues and joint structures, this formula helps dogs move more comfortably and maintain normal activity levels.
Supports the skeletal system
Ligaplex® II supplies key nutrients involved in bone and joint maintenance, including vitamin A, vitamin B12, and manganese.
Supports healthy fluid balance
The formula is involved in maintaining healthy fluid levels, which matters for joint comfort and tissue hydration.
Provides targeted whole food nutrition
Instead of isolated synthetic compounds, this supplement uses whole food concentrates and tissue extracts that the body recognizes and can use efficiently.
Ingredients That Make Ligaplex® II Unique
Ligaplex® II contains a proprietary blend of whole food and tissue based ingredients chosen for their role in connective tissue and skeletal support.
Key nutrients per 2-capsule serving
-
Vitamin A: Supports tissue maintenance and cellular health
-
Vitamin D: Supports skeletal structure
-
Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant support
-
Vitamin B12: Supports cellular function and energy metabolism
-
Manganese: Essential for connective tissue formation
-
Sodium: Supports normal cellular function
Proprietary blend highlights
-
Nutritional yeast: A natural source of B vitamins
-
Bovine bone and veal bone PMG™ extract: Provides structural support nutrients
-
Bovine heart PMG™ extract: Supports connective tissues and structural integrity
-
Bovine liver and liver fat extract: Supplies fat soluble vitamins and nutrients
-
Bovine adrenal Cytosol™ extract: Supports stress related tissue demands
-
Organic vegetables including beet root, carrot, sweet potato, and pea vine juice powder: Provide phytonutrients and antioxidant support
-
Organic shiitake and reishi mushroom powder: Traditionally used to support immune balance
-
Organic flaxseed oil and sunflower lecithin: Support healthy fat metabolism and cell membranes
This product contains wheat and is not appropriate for dogs with known wheat sensitivities.
When I Commonly Use Ligaplex® II in Dogs
Ligaplex® II can be helpful in a variety of situations where connective tissue support is needed.
Joint stiffness or reduced mobility
Especially in senior dogs or dogs showing early signs of structural wear.
Post injury or post surgery support
To provide nutritional building blocks during tissue repair and recovery.
Active or working dogs
Dogs that place repeated strain on joints, ligaments, and tendons often benefit from added structural support.
Dogs with poor posture or weakness
When the skeletal system needs nutritional reinforcement to maintain strength and alignment.
This supplement supports the body’s normal processes. It does not replace pain management, diagnostics, or veterinary care when those are needed.
How Ligaplex® II Works in the Body
Ligaplex® II works by supplying nutrients involved in connective tissue formation and maintenance.
-
Provides manganese and vitamin B12, which are required for connective tissue metabolism
-
Supplies whole food tissue extracts that support structural integrity
-
Supports normal fluid balance within tissues
-
Nourishes skeletal and connective tissues rather than masking symptoms
Over time, this type of nutritional support helps the body maintain healthier joints and connective tissues.
Dosage and How to Give Ligaplex® II
Ligaplex® II is easy to give and can be adjusted based on your dog’s size and needs.
General dosing guidelines
|
Dog Size
|
Dosage
|
|---|---|
|
Small Dogs
1-20lbs |
2 capsules daily
|
|
Medium Dogs
21-50lbs |
4 capsules daily
|
|
Large Dogs
51+ lbs |
6 capsules daily
|
This is a typical starting dose. Dogs should transition to a lower maintenance dose once support goals are met.
Administration tips
Capsules can be given whole, opened and mixed into food, or hidden in a small treat. Consistency matters more than timing, so choose what works best for your dog.
Possible Side Effects and Safety Notes
Ligaplex® II is generally well tolerated. Most dogs do very well on it.
Some dogs may experience mild digestive upset when starting any new supplement. This can include loose stool or reduced appetite. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help.
Because this formula contains multiple whole food ingredients, allergic reactions are rare but possible. If you notice itching, swelling, or breathing changes, stop the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
Always talk with your veterinarian before adding a new supplement, especially if your dog has medical conditions or is taking medications.
Final Thoughts
Ligaplex® II is one of my go to options when I want to support connective tissues, skeletal health, and comfortable movement using whole food nutrition. It works best as part of a thoughtful plan that includes appropriate diet, activity, and veterinary care.
When dogs have the right nutritional foundation, their bodies are better equipped to maintain strength, flexibility, and mobility over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ligaplex® II used for in dogs?
Ligaplex® II is used to support connective tissue health, skeletal structure, and healthy movement. It provides nutrients involved in maintaining joints, ligaments, and supportive tissues.
Is Ligaplex® II a pain supplement?
No. It does not work like a pain medication. It supports the tissues that help joints function properly.
How long does it take to see results?
Many dogs show improvement within several weeks, but connective tissue support is gradual. Consistent use matters.
Can Ligaplex® II be used long term?
Yes. It is often used for long term maintenance or adjusted to a lower dose once goals are met.
Does Ligaplex® II contain wheat?
Yes. It contains wheat and is not appropriate for dogs with wheat sensitivities.