Dog arthritis treatment: How to help a dog with arthritis

Did you know that arthritis affects up to 20% of dogs over the age of 1? And it’s not just an 'old age' issue.

Arthritis (also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease) is a chronic condition involving inflammation within affected joints, leading to the loss of cushioning cartilage and progressive deterioration. This causes your furry friend to experience lots of joint pain, stiffness and reduced mobility that can worsen with time – especially if it’s not detected. Although joints all over the body can be affected, the most reported problem areas in dogs tend to be the hips, knees and elbows.

The good news? Early diagnosis and management of arthritis can slow its progression and help every pet to live their happiest and most comfortable life. Let’s take a closer look at arthritis in our loveable dogs, and what to look out for.

Signs of arthritis in dogs

Dogs are masters of disguise, especially when it comes to arthritis! They might not let on that they’re feeling stiff or sore until it’s more advanced, so it’s good to stay one step ahead. Keep an eye on your furry bestie for symptoms of arthritis like:

• Slowing down on walks
• Difficulty/hesitance climbing stairs or jumping into the car
• Stiffness, particularly after getting up from rest
• An altered walking or running gait
• Limping
• Reduced activity
• Reluctance to be handled in certain areas
• Changes in mood, such as being more withdrawn or irritable
• Excessive licking of joints (e.g. wrists or toes)

If you notice any of these signs in your pup, it’s a good idea to have them examined by a veterinarian who can assess your pet’s joint mobility and comfort.

Also, if your dog is eight years of age or older, it’s recommended to have your vet perform a full health check on them every 6-12 months. This way, your vet may be able to detect the condition earlier (as well as any other developing health problems that can be associated with age). This is the best way to make sure your furry friend is living their best life!

Risk factors for arthritis in dogs

Just like us, pets can develop arthritis and sometimes, it's not just their age which is the main culprit! Here are a few factors that can put your furry friend at risk of arthritis:

• Age: While dogs of any age can be affected by arthritis, it is more common in senior dogs due to natural 'wear and tear' over time.
• Breed: Although any pet can develop arthritis, large and giant dog breeds (such as Labradors, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers) are more likely to be affected.
• Previous injuries: Prior injuries, such as a ruptured cruciate ligament in the knee, will cause damage within the joint, making that pet more likely to develop arthritis in the future.
• Obesity: Obesity, especially during puppyhood, can place increased strain on joints and make them more likely to develop issues.
• Joint malformation: Developmental joint problems, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, make affected dogs more likely to develop arthritis in those areas in the long-term.
• Genetics: Genetics can play a role in individual dogs being more likely to develop arthritis, which is why responsible breeders of 'at risk' breeds tend to offer joint health screening of breeding males and females, such as hip scoring.

A quick chat with your vet could be a game-changer, especially to determine whether your pup may have any risk factors for developing arthritis. The good news is that in some cases, early intervention for 'at risk' puppies or dogs can reduce or slow their arthritis development.

Managing arthritis in dogs

Arthritis can slow your pup down, but it doesn’t have to steal their zoomies! With the right mix of vet care, cosy home tweaks, and plenty of belly rubs, you can keep those tails wagging and joints moving. Here are some tips that might help your pooch if they have arthritis:

Veterinary care

Although arthritis in dogs is irreversible, there are lots of treatments available that can slow its effects and help your pet to remain more mobile and comfortable. It’s important for you to consult with your vet regarding the safest and most effective arthritis remedies for your pup, as these will depend on their general health and the severity of their condition.

Many pets may react better to a 'multi-modal' approach, which is the use of several different arthritis therapies to have a greater combined effect while minimising side effects.

Dog arthritis treatment options include:

• Pain management: This can take the form of daily anti-inflammatory medication, daily analgesia (pain relief) medication, or regular arthritis pain-blocking injections.
• Disease modifying agents: Regular injection courses of pentosan polysulfate can help to reduce inflammation, maintain cartilage health, and encourage healthy joint fluid production.
• Physiotherapy: This involves gentle, low-impact exercise (such as the use of an underwater treadmill), performed under the guidance of a rehabilitation-trained vet or veterinary nurse, to reduce stiffness and rebuild the dog’s strength, coordination and balance without overloading their joints. Could also be a fun activity for your pooch!
• Laser therapy or acupuncture: Applying medical laser therapy (light beam energy) or fine needles at sites can help to reduce inflammation, improve healthy blood flow, and promote tissue healing.
• Surgical options: In some cases, joint surgery can be performed to stabilise damaged joints (such as in dogs who have ruptured their cruciate ligament), remove damaged cartilage, or remove or replace irreparably damaged hip joints.

Home care tips

Did you know that there are some easy management options you can implement at home so that your dog can potter around more comfortably and safely?

These include:

• Joint-friendly bedding: Choose thick and supportive bedding, opt for something raised above the ground so it’s easier for your pet to stand up again after rest.
• Ramps and stairs: Pet ramps can be used to help your dog safely get into and out of the car, onto furniture, or down small flights of stairs without having to land heavily on sore joints.
• Regular, gentle exercise: Regular exercise helps to keep arthritic dogs stronger and more mobile, but activities should be low impact and gentle – think controlled leash walks or supervised swimming in warm water. Try to avoid games where your buddy leaps around wildly or runs on unstable surfaces, such as vigorous ball chasing or playing on the beach, as these are more likely to leave them feeling a little sore the next day. You can also keep your dog mentally occupied with the use of snuffle mats or food puzzle toys which are always good fun!
• Weight management: Keeping your dog in ideal body condition will reduce the load on their joints. If you think that your pet could be overweight or underweight, it’s best to have them assessed by your vet.
• Keeping your canine warm: Just like us, the chilly weather can worsen your pet’s stiffness and pain, so ensure they always have somewhere warm and dry to sleep. If your dog is short-haired, it’s also a good idea to put a well-fitted jumper or coat on them in colder weather.
• Easy access to food, water and bathroom areas: Dogs with arthritis can find it more comfortable to eat and drink using raised bowls. It’s also a good idea to ensure they can easily reach their toileting area, for example with the use of grass toileting pads if they have trouble using stairs to reach the garden.
• Improving your pet’s grip: Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed short will help to prevent their feet slipping out from under them. Weaker or more wobbly pets may also benefit from the use of non-slip mats to create safe walking paths between commonly used areas (such as their bed and bowls).

Can arthritis in dogs be cured?

Unfortunately, arthritis can’t be cured, and the condition will generally progress over time. However, appropriate veterinary intervention and lifestyle modifications such as those discussed above can help your dog to stay mobile and comfortable.

That’s why chatting with your vet about managing arthritis is so important! Don’t just write off reduced activity in your dog as a natural part of aging. With the help of your veterinarian and some tender loving care from you at home, arthritis can be managed, and your beloved companion can stay young at heart for longer. Whether it’s medications, supplements, or targeted exercise, the right strategy can ease discomfort and boost mobility.