Dog Arthritis Explained by a Vet: Causes, Symptoms & Proven Pain Relief Methods
Dog Arthritis Explained by a Vet: Causes, Symptoms & Proven Pain Relief Methods
Written by Alessandro Didiano (doctor in veterinary medicine, MRCVS)
Disclaimer: This article is personally written by me, a licensed veterinarian with more than a decade of clinical experience. It’s for general information only and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a vet for health concerns or emergencies.
Jenny, my 12-year-old Labrador, was really struggling to walk. I was a fourth-year vet student and suspected she was suffering from arthritis.
I took her to the local vet in my village, who confirmed my fears after an X-ray.
“So, what can we give her?” I asked.
“Unfortunately, not much. She will have to live with this,” the vet replied. I felt heartbroken seeing my beloved Jenny in pain.
Just 13 years ago, arthritis was often seen as a mild inconvenience that dogs had to endure. But thankfully, veterinary medicine has come a long way. Today, there are many ways to manage arthritis and make our senior dogs' lives more comfortable.
This article is dedicated to Jenny. I am so sorry you had to go through so much pain, and I wish I could go back in time to change it.
Introduction
Arthritis is a very common condition in dogs, especially as they age. If your canine friend is slowing down, struggling to get up, or avoiding stairs, they might be experiencing joint pain. Unfortunately, arthritis isn’t curable, but the good news is that there are many ways to manage it and keep your dog comfortable. In this article, we’ll go over the causes, symptoms, and best treatment options to help your senior dog live a happy, active life.
What Causes Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis, also knows as osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage that "cushions" the joints starts to wear down. This can lead to pain and inflammation. In the advanced stage of the disease, the pain can impact a dog's quality of life. Several factors contribute to arthritis:
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Aging: This is the most common cause, because joints naturally deteriorate over time.
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Breed Predisposition: Larger breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are more prone to this condition.
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Obesity: Excess weight puts added pressure on joints, accelerating the process of arthitis.
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Previous Injuries: Fractures, ligament tears (for example ACL injuries), and joint dislocations increase the risk of arthritis.
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Genetics: Some dogs inherit conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia, making them more susceptible to arthritis.
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Overuse or High-Impact Activity: Working dogs (or those engaged in intense activities) can develop arthritis earlier than pets.
Recognizing the Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis symptoms usually develop gradually. This means that pet owners often mistake them for normal aging. Watch for these warning signs:
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Stiffness, especially after having rested or lied down
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Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks
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Limping or favoring one leg
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Difficulty standing up or lying down
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Reduced activity levels
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Whining or showing signs of discomfort
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Licking or chewing or nibbling at affected joints
If you notice these symptoms, I would strongly recommend to consult your local vet for a physical examination.
Best Treatments for Dog Arthritis
As mentioned, arthritis can’t be reversed. However, proper treatments can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life. Here are the most effective treatment options:
1. Joint Supplements
Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) are commonly recommended by us vets for joint health, as they help reduce inflammation and support cartilage repair. There are many great supplements on the market. Yumove is one of the most well-known options and a popular choice among pet owners.
2. Prescription Medications
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Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): We often prescribe Rimadyl (Carprofen), Metacam (Meloxicam), Onsior (Robenacoxib) or Previcox (Firocoxib) to reduce inflammation, pain and swelling.
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Gabapentin & Amantadine: These are often used (singularly or together) in veterinary medicine to manage chronic pain in arthritis cases, particularly when NSAIDs alone are not enough.
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Librela (Bedinvetmab): This is a monoclonal antibody therapy designed to provide relief for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis pain. It works by targeting nerve growth factor (NGF), a key component in pain signaling. It is usually injected once per month. I feel like I have to address the elephant in the room here: while Librela is generally safe and well-tolerated, some dogs may experience mild side effects, such as lethargy, weakness, or, in rare cases, even neurological symptoms. Fortunately, these effects are typically temporary. In my experience, Librela has been a valuable option for managing arthritis pain. On the rare occasions when side effects have occurred, simply discontinuing the injections has been enough to resolve them.
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Cartrophen Injections: This is another type of injectable therapy, but instead of a monthly injection, it involves courses of 4 injections given every few months. This treatment helps to slow down cartilage degeneration and supports joint health over time.
3. Weight Management
It may seem like common sense, but many people overlook it: maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce strain on your dog’s joints. A balanced diet and portion control are essential for keeping them comfortable and mobile.
4. Exercise & Physical Therapy
The type of exercise you want to do with arthritic dogs is gentle and low-impact, like short walks and swimming. This helps maintain mobility while not affecting the joint too much. Complementary treatments such hydrotherapy and physiotherapy also improve joint function.
5. Orthopedic Dog Beds & Ramps
Special bedding is strongly recommended with arthritic dogs. I usually recommend memory foam beds, as they provide joint support and reduce pressure points.
Recommended: Top-Also, I strongly recommend the use of ramps and stairs, which can help dogs avoid jumping, therefore reducing joint strain.
6. Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture and laser therapy are proven to help reduce pain and inflammation, offering relief for dogs with arthritis. Massage therapy can also be beneficial, as it improves circulation and reduces muscle stiffness, therefore contributing to overall comfort and mobility. Some studies and anecdotal reports suggest that CBD oil may help reduce joint pain and improve mobility in arthritic dogs. CBD products are widely available for pets in the US, but currently not in the UK.
7. Dietary Changes
Adding omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil) can also help reduce inflammation and support joint health.
Recommended: Fish oil for dogs
Final Thoughts
Arthritis is unfortunately a chronic and progressive condition, but it doesn’t have to mean a diminished quality of life for your dog. With the right treatment, supplements and life-style modifications, your dog can stay active and happy for years to come. As usual, if in doubt, always book an appointment with your local vet.
Arthritis is unfortunately a chronic and progressive condition, but it doesn’t have to mean a diminished quality of life for your dog. With the right treatment, supplements and life-style modifications, your dog can stay active and happy for years to come. As usual, if in doubt, always book an appointment with your local vet.