More and more brands are developing nutritional supplements with collagen for animals. This isn’t surprising: collagen plays a major role in supple joints, healthy skin, and strong connective tissue.
But did you know there are different types of collagen for animals? Each type has its own effects and uses.
In this blog, you’ll discover exactly what collagen does, what forms it comes in, and how to make the right choice for your product line.
Collagen is a natural protein that provides strength and elasticity to the body. It’s found in joints, cartilage, bones, skin, and tendons.
In aging animals or those exposed to intense strain (such as sport horses or active dogs), natural collagen production decreases. This can lead to joint stiffness or reduced mobility.
A collagen supplement can help restore the natural balance. Brands incorporate collagen into powders, liquids, soft chews, or gummies, depending on the target audience and ease of use.
In short, collagen supports the health of joints, skin and connective tissue in animals.
This is the most commonly used form of collagen in animal feed. Hydrolyzed collagen is obtained from beef or fish and enzymatically broken down into small peptides.
Thanks to this structure, it is easily absorbed by the body. It supports the production of new collagen, thus helping to keep joints supple and strengthen the skin.
Hydrolyzed collagen is ideal for general support and can be used in powders, liquids, and gummies. It’s versatile and can be combined with other active ingredients.
Petagile® is a patented form of collagen hydrolysate, developed by Gelita. These specific peptides have been scientifically studied in dogs. They stimulate cartilage cells (chondrocytes) to produce new tissue, thus improving joint function.
In concrete terms, this means less stiffness, more mobility, and more comfort.
Petagile® is often used in soft chews and powders for dogs.
At Nutriliq, we help brands offer a premium formula based on proven ingredients. Consider, for example, a soft chewable version with Petagile®, supplemented with MSM and glucosamine for a complete joint supplement.
UC-II® is a unique form of undenatured type II collagen, derived from chicken cartilage.
Unlike collagen peptides, UC-II® works through the immune system. It helps the body reduce joint inflammation and thus improve flexibility.
Only a small dose (approximately 40 mg per day for dogs) is enough to see an effect.
UC-II® is often used in soft chews or tablets for dogs and horses.
It is a high-quality ingredient that is particularly suitable for brands that want to distinguish themselves with scientifically proven joint care.
Colartix® is a natural collagen complex consisting of undenatured collagen peptides combined with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs).
This combination supports cartilage production and promotes comfort and mobility in dogs and horses.
Unlike UC-II®, Colartix® is completely natural and combines well with other active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.
It is often incorporated into liquid formulas or soft chews as a gentle yet effective alternative to highly concentrated collagen forms.
Hypro-P Premium is a highly purified bovine collagen hydrolysate with short, easily absorbed peptides.
It was developed as a versatile base ingredient for supplements that support joints, skin, and coat.
Thanks to its neutral taste and excellent solubility, Hypro-P Premium is ideal for use in powders, gummies, and combinations with vitamins or minerals.
For many brands, this type of collagen is the starting point for a high-purity multi-ingredient formula.
In addition to single ingredients, Nutriliq also offers combination formulas. These combine different collagen types with MSM, hyaluronic acid, or glucosamine.
This creates a synergistic effect: multiple functions are supported simultaneously, such as smooth movement, skin elasticity, and cartilage repair.
Such formulas are popular in liquids or gummies because they’re easy to dose and taste great.
In short: the right combination determines the success of your product – and we’ll help you make that choice.
The choice depends on:
Het doel van het product (onderhoud, herstel of preventie)
The desired product form (soft chew, powder, liquid or gummy)
For example, a brand collaborated with Nutriliq to develop a liquid supplement for horses containing Colartix® and hyaluronic acid. The formula focused on daily joint support, without overdosing or heavy additives.
Thanks to the right collagen type and a customized flavor base, the product quickly became a success with breeders and veterinarians.
At Nutriliq, we combine scientific knowledge with practical experience. We help you choose the right raw materials, product form, and brand positioning.
From recipe development to packaging, you’ll have a single point of contact and a completely transparent process.
This way, you not only build a high-quality supplement but also trust with your customers.
Learn more about our powders and soft chews on our website.
What is the difference between Petagile®, UC-II® and Colartix®?
Petagile® stimulates cartilage production, UC-II® works through the immune system, and Colartix® supports the natural formation of cartilage and comfort. Each has its own strength.
What makes Hypro-P Premium different from standard collagen peptides?
Hypro-P Premium is extra pure and contains shorter peptides for better absorption. It’s ideal as a base for versatile formulas.
Can you combine different collagen types?
Yes. Combining collagen peptides with UC-II® or Colartix® can provide a broader range of effects. Nutriliq helps maintain the proper balance and stability of the formula.
Collagen is a versatile building block with many facets.
Whether you choose Petagile®, UC-II®, Colartix®, Hypro-P Premium, or a combination formula, each type has unique properties and benefits.
At Nutriliq, we help you make the right choice for your brand. From concept to finished product, with an eye for quality, taste, and science.
Want to know which collagen is best suited to your formula?
Contact Nutriliq today. Together, we’ll develop a supplement that truly makes a difference.