My old dude is on several supplements. His aches & pains are in his lower back (just like his mom's). His "integrative" veterinarian suggested adding a supplement called "Vetri-Disc" (http://www.vetriscience.com/sellsheets/Vetri Disc.pdf), which targets the connective tissues of the spine. Glucosamine is good for joints that have fluid, like hips, but which vertebra do not have. Acupuncture may or may not help, you won't know until you try it (more than once). My dog and I are also both on Fish Oil 1000mg twice a day. He's on a bunch of vitamins, too, and an herbal anti-inflammatory, since he had a scary trial of Rimadyl. Massage helps him, which I do myself. Good luck with your pooch!