Arthritis in Dogs: Signs, Causes, and Pain Management

Arthritis in dogs is a condition that causes inflammation and degeneration in one or more joints, leading to discomfort, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, this inflammation can make it harder for joints to move smoothly, affecting your dog’s mobility and overall quality of life. 

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it’s most common in weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, elbows, and spine. While it’s more common in senior dogs, it can also develop in younger pups due to injury, genetics, developmental joint disease, or other underlying joint conditions. 

Arthritis in dogs isn’t just one condition. There are a few different types, each with its own underlying cause. Understanding the differences can help you and your veterinarian choose the best treatment plan for your dog. 

• Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease): The most common type of arthritis in dogs, caused by progressive wear, instability, and degeneration within the joints over time. It leads to cartilage breakdown, pain, and stiffness. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis: A less common autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and damage.  
• Septic arthritis: Caused by a bacterial or fungal infection in the joint, often following an injury, bite wound, surgery, or bloodstream infection. This type requires prompt veterinary treatment. 
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Develops after a joint injury, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or chronic instability, leading to long-term joint damage and arthritis changes. 

No matter the type, early diagnosis and treatment can help improve your dog’s comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. 

Arthritis can occur in dogs of any age, but it’s more common in older dogs. It often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook the early signs. 

Keep an eye out for these common signs that your dog might be dealing with arthritis:  

• Difficulty getting up, lying down, or climbing stairs 
• Avoiding activities such as running or jumping 
• Altered gait  
• Stiffness or lameness  
• Limping 
• Sleeping more than usual 
• Playing or exercising less 
• Decreased appetite in more severe or painful cases  
• Resisting being touched or petted 
• Irritability or changes in behavior  
• Swelling or tenderness in joints 
• Licking joints excessively 

Arthritis in dogs usually develops gradually, with symptoms becoming more noticeable over time. While every dog progresses differently, understanding the general stages of arthritis can help you recognize changes early and work with your veterinarian to support your dog’s comfort and mobility.  

• Early/Mild Arthritis: Symptoms can be very subtle and easy to miss. Dogs may occasionally appear stiff after rest or be slightly less active than usual. Early joint inflammation and cartilage wear may already be occurring.  
• Mild to Moderate Arthritis: Stiffness becomes more noticeable, especially after sleeping or exercise. Dogs may slow down on walks, hesitate before jumping, or show less interest in physical activity.  
• Moderate to Advanced Arthritis: Limping, difficulty rising, reduced activity, and signs of discomfort become more consistent. Joint degeneration and inflammation are more significant, and muscle loss may begin to develop.  
• Severe Arthritis: Dogs may have significant pain and mobility limitations. Walking, climbing stairs, standing, or performing normal daily activities may become difficult, and muscle wasting is often more pronounced. 

Arthritis in dogs often develops due to a combination of factors that lead to joint inflammation and cartilage degradation. 

The most common contributing causes include:  

• Aging and joint wear: Over time, the natural aging process can contribute  to cartilage breakdown, especially in active or older dogs. 
• Genetics: Some breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers, are more prone to developing arthritis due to hereditary joint conditions. 
• Previous injuries: Joint injuries, such as ligament tears, fractures, or dislocations, can increase the risk of arthritis later in life, even after healing. 
• Hip or elbow dysplasia: Hip or elbow dysplasia can lead to joint instability, causing early onset arthritis. 
• Excess weight: Carrying extra weight puts added stress on joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and inflammation. 
• Abnormal joint development: Poorly formed joints, often due to rapid growth in puppies, can lead to uneven wear and arthritis over time. 
• Lifestyle factors: Lack of exercise can lead to weak muscles and poor joint support, while overly intense activity can strain joints and contribute to arthritis. 
• Autoimmune disease: Although uncommon, immune-mediated arthritis can cause inflammation and joint damage in dogs. 
• Infection: In rare cases, bacterial or fungal infections in the joints can lead to septic arthritis. 

Larger and giant breed dogs are generally more prone to developing arthritis. They can often develop it at a younger age than smaller breeds due to the increased stress their size puts on their joints. 

If you notice signs of arthritis in your dog, schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow progression and keep your pup more comfortable.  

Here’s what you can expect your vet to do to diagnose your dog’s arthritis: 

1. Discuss your dog’s symptoms and history: Your vet will ask about signs you’ve noticed, such as limping, stiffness, slowing down, difficulty jumping, or changes in activity level.   
2. Perform a physical: Your vet will assess your dog’s joints, range of motion, muscle mass, comfort level, and gait while checking for pain, swelling, stiffness, or reduced mobility.   
3. Take X-rays (radiographs): X-rays can help identify arthritis-related joint changes such as bone remodeling, joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or signs of instability.  

In some cases, your vet may recommend additional tests like bloodwork to rule out other conditions or ensure your dog is healthy enough for certain medications or treatment plans. 

Dog arthritis treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and slowing joint damage. Treatment plans are customized for each dog and might include a combination of medications, weight management, exercise modification, rehabilitation therapy, supplements, and environmental changes at home. 

Vets commonly prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Galliprant, carprofen, or meloxicam, to help reduce inflammation and ease arthritis-related pain. 

In addition to NSAIDs, your vet might recommend other medications or therapies to manage your dog’s symptoms, including: 

• Gabapentin: Often used to help manage chronic or nerve-related pain 

• Amantadine: An NMDA receptor antagonist that may help manage chronic pain, especially when combined with other arthritis medications  
• Adequan® injections: A polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) injectable medication that may help protect cartilage, improve joint lubrication, and reduce inflammation  
• Librela® injections: A monoclonal antibody injection designed to help control osteoarthritis pain in dogs 
• Tramadol or other pain medications: In some cases, additional pain medications may be considered for dogs with more severe discomfort or complex pain management needs 

In select situations, corticosteroids such as prednisone may be used to help control inflammation and pain, although they are generally not considered first-line long-term arthritis treatments because of potential side effects. Steroids should never be combined with NSAIDs, as this can significantly increase the risk of serious complications such as stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.  

“Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the most critical aspects of treatment,” says Marc Smith, DVM, MS, owner of Natchez Trace Veterinary Services in Nashville, Tennessee. 

“Carrying excess weight strains the joints, accelerates wear and tear, and increases overall body inflammation,” he explains. 

Your vet may also recommend a weight management dog food if your dog needs additional help to lose weight. Some weight management dog foods can be purchased over the counter, while others will require authorization from your vet. 

A balanced diet and regular exercise are key to keeping your pup at a healthy weight. Ensure you measure your dog’s food with a dog food scoop or use an automatic dog feeder that measures out meals so portions stay consistent. 

Veterinarians often recommend therapeutic dog food for dogs with arthritis. These foods contain therapeutic levels of nutrients formulated to support joint health and mobility in dogs, and they require vet authorization. 

In addition to medications and weight management, many pet parents use supplements and supportive therapies to help manage their dog’s arthritis. These options can play an important role in improving comfort, supporting joint health, and enhancing overall mobility—especially when used as part of a well-rounded care plan. 

Your veterinarian can help you decide which options make the most sense for your dog based on their symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health. 

Dog hip and joint supplements are commonly used alongside medications to help support joint comfort and mobility. Always ask your vet before giving any new supplements to your dog. 

Commonly recommended supplements include:  

• Glucosamine and chondroitin: These ingredients are commonly used to help support cartilage and joint health.  Many veterinarians recommend combination products that also include omega-3 fatty acids, such as Cosequin, for more comprehensive joint support. 

• Fish oil: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have been shown in studies to help reduce inflammation and support joint comfort in dogs with arthritis. 

Physical therapy uses targeted exercises and treatments to manage pain, improve mobility, maintain muscle mass, and support overall joint function in dogs with arthritis. 

One common form is hydrotherapy, where dogs exercise in water to relieve joint pressure while rebuilding muscle strength and increasing mobility. 

If your vet recommends physical therapy, treatment may be performed by a rehabilitation specialist or include exercises and stretches you can do at home. 

Some pet parents may explore alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and electrical stimulation to help manage their dog’s arthritis symptoms. These treatments are often used alongside traditional medical treatment and may provide additional comfort and mobility support. 

Small changes in your dog’s home environment can make a big difference in their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Here are some practical ways to support your arthritic pup around the house. 

A supportive, memory foam dog bed helps relieve pressure on sore joints and can make it easier for your dog to rest comfortably. It also promotes better sleep, which is important for overall health and recovery. 

Using ramps for beds, couches, and vehicles can help reduce strain on your dog’s joints. They provide a safer, low-impact way for your pup to get around without the stress of jumping. 

Choose dog ramps with a gentle incline and a non-slip surface for safety. 

Because hardwood and tile can be slippery, try placing non-slip rugs or mats in high-traffic areas and near your dog’s favorite resting spots to prevent slipping and ease movement around the house. 

You might also consider toe grips. Toe grips help your dog gain traction and reduce slipping without the need for rugs or mats.  

Elevated bowls reduce strain on the neck and front legs, making mealtimes more comfortable. Bowls should be positioned at a comfortable height so your dog can eat and drink without excessive bending.  

Cold weather can worsen arthritis symptoms, so keeping your home warm can help your dog stay more comfortable. Pet-safe heating pads or heated beds can provide additional soothing warmth, but they should always be used according to manufacturerinstructions to avoid burns or overheating.  

A dog-lift harness can provide extra support when your pup needs help climbing stairs, getting in and out of the car, or rising from a resting position. 

Genetics plays a role in dog arthritis, but lifestyle and preventive care can also have a major impact on joint health over time. 

While arthritis cannot always be completely prevented, there are several steps you can take to lower your pup’s risk or reduce the severity of the condition, including: 

• Keep your dog at a healthy weight. “One of the most important steps pet parents can take to reduce the risk of dog arthritis is to maintain your dog at a healthy weight,” Dr. Smith says. To maintain a healthy weight, avoid overfeeding and limit treats, including human food, to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. 
• Feed your puppy an appropriate diet. Feed a balanced puppy food formulated for steady growth. Rapid growth in puppies can strain developing joints, increasing the risk of orthopedic issues and arthritis. 
• Feed a joint-supportive diet. Feeding a high-quality, complete diet helps maintain strong joints over time. Some dogs may also benefit from diets formulated with nutrients that support mobility and joint function. 
• Provide regular, low-impact exercise. This is essential for keeping joints mobile and muscles strong. Activities like daily walks, swimming, and controlled play help maintain flexibility and mobility without placing excessive stress on the joints.  
• Protect against injuries. Joint injuries can increase the risk of arthritis later in life. Avoid high-impact activities such as repetitive jumping or running on hard surfaces, especially in growing puppies and large breed dogs. 
• Start joint supplements early. Introducing joint-support supplements early, especially for large or active dogs, can help protect cartilage and support long-term joint health. Cosequin with Multifunctional Support is an option that can be introduced as a puppy and sustained through a dog’s senior years.  

• Schedule regular vet checkups. Routine veterinary checkups can help detect signs of joint issues, allowing for early intervention. Your vet can also recommend personalized preventive care strategies based on your dog’s age, breed, and lifestyle. 

How long can dogs live with arthritis? 

Dogs with arthritis can enjoy a long, happy life with proper management. While arthritis itself is not usually life-threatening, untreated pain and mobility issues can significantly impact the dog’s quality of life.  

Are canine arthritis and osteoarthritis the same thing? 

Not exactly. Arthritis is a general term for joint inflammation, while osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in dogs. Osteoarthritis involves progressive joint degeneration, cartilage breakdown, inflammation, and changes within the joint over time. 

How can you tell if a dog has arthritis? 

Common signs of arthritis in dogs include stiffness (especially after rest), limping, slowing down on walks, difficulty getting up or climbing stairs, and less interest in play or exercise. If you notice these changes, your veterinarian can evaluate your dog and confirm a diagnosis.