Dogs rely on their joints for movement. Over time, these joints can potentially deteriorate, causing weakness in a dog's muscular structure. The condition affects their joints, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. This is called arthritis.
Arthritis is one of the most common health issues in dogs, especially as they grow older. But while it's often associated with seniors, younger dogs aren’t entirely safe. Injuries, genetics, infections, and even autoimmune diseases, which are factors other than age, can lead to arthritis in dogs.
Fortunately, a dog's arthritis can still be managed to give them a better life. But first, let's talk about what arthritis is in dogs.
What are the Types of Arthritis in Dogs?
Joint inflammation isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. There are several types of it, each with unique characteristics and causes. Here are the most common types of arthritis in dogs:
Osteoarthritis
Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis develops gradually as the cartilage in a dog’s joints wears down over time. This is the most common type of arthritis in dogs. Because of the loss of this cushioning, the bones begin to rub at each other, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and pain.
Osteoarthritis can affect just about any other joint. However, the condition is usually experienced in the dog’s hips, knees, elbows, and spine. These are caused by aging, genetics, obesity, and joint injuries. It's known to be common in dog breeds that have the tendency to experience joint issues. Some examples are Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
Autoimmune Arthritis
Autoimmune arthritis is when a dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joints. One well-known type of arthritis in this group is rheumatoid arthritis. Here, the dog’s joints experience chronic damage and inflammation. Unlike osteoarthritis, autoimmune arthritis can occur at any age.
Septic Arthritis
Unlike the other types, septic arthritis is caused by pathogens. It’s a type generally caused by bacterial or fungal infections that enter the joint. As a result, the joints experience severe swelling, heat, and pain.
This can happen through an open wound, post-surgery infection, or bacteria traveling through the bloodstream. Because of its nature, septic arthritis requires emergency care to avoid any further permanent damage to the joints.
What Causes Arthritis in Dogs?
This doesn’t happen overnight. While age is by far one of the most common causes, there are also other factors that can cause joint pain inflammation. The causes of arthritis in dogs include:
Aging. As dogs get older, their joints naturally wear down. Over time, the cartilage that cushions their joints deteriorates, leading to stiffness, pain, and arthritis.
Genetics. Some breeds, like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers, are more prone to arthritis due to inherited joint issues like hip or elbow dysplasia.
Obesity and Excess Weight. Carrying extra weight stresses a dog’s joints, increasing the risk of canine arthritis.
Joint Injuries and Trauma. Injuries like fractures, ligament tears, or repetitive stress from high-impact activities, can lead to joint damage and arthritis over time.
Infections and Autoimmune Diseases. Conditions like Lyme disease, infections, or autoimmune disorders can cause joint inflammation and long-term damage.
Poor Nutrition and Lack of Joint Support. A diet lacking essential nutrients can weaken joint health and make dogs more prone to arthritis.
What are the Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis can be difficult to spot, especially in younger dogs. Since most types are progressive, many of the symptoms happen gradually. Here are some of the most common signs of arthritis in dogs:
Stiffness and Limping
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of arthritis is stiffness, particularly after periods of rest. Your dog may struggle to stand up or take a few stiff steps before moving more normally. Limping is also common, especially after exercise or on colder days when arthritis pain tends to flare up.
Difficulty and Reluctance to Move
Arthritis can make previously simple tasks challenging for dogs. They might often have visible difficulty moving to their usual spots. In severe cases, your dog will prefer not to engage in any playtime or walks to avoid the pain and discomfort. Some dogs may also show a decrease in their usual enthusiasm for playtime or physical activities.
Over time, dogs with arthritis may start modifying their movements to avoid pain. They might only use a specific part of their body or choose to not move at all.
Behavioral Changes
The pain and discomfort brought by arthritis can lead to noticeable changes in your dog’s behavior. They become less playful or active, while some choose to rest more often. Others might show some form of irritability or aggression, especially if their affected limbs are touched.
In more advanced stages, dogs may show clear signs of pain. This could include whimpering, yelping, or licking the affected joints frequently. Some dogs may also hold their limb in an unusual position to reduce pressure on the painful joint. Affected dogs also tend to sleep more as a way to cope with the discomfort. You might notice your dog seeking out safe places or becoming more and more withdrawn.
Swelling and Muscle Loss
You might notice swelling around your dog’s joints. These areas can feel swollen and warm to the touch, particularly in areas like the hips, knees, and elbows. Over time, dogs with arthritis may also experience muscle loss as they avoid putting weight on painful joints.
How is Arthritis in Dogs Diagnosed?
If your dog is starting to show signs as it gets older, it might be time to have a checkup to confirm your suspicions. Here are some of the methods we use to diagnose arthritis in dogs:
Physical Examination
Our vets will start by physically examining your dog and checking its overall physical condition. This includes posture, range of motion, and overall joint function. Any stiffness, limping, or pain when moving will be taken into account. Your observations on your dog's behavior at home will also be needed.
Imaging Tests
X-rays are one of the most reliable and common tools for diagnosing arthritis in dogs. This tool helps provide images of the affected bones and joints, allowing our vets to identify signs of joint degeneration.
This includes markers such as:
Narrowed joint spaces. When the cartilage in your dog’s joints gets damaged, the space between the bones will narrow down.
Bone spurs. Because of cartilage loss, the body will create extra bone growths at the edges of the joints.
Changes in bone structure. The inflammation caused by the joints’ wear and tear will lead to changes in the bone structure of your dog.
Joint Fluid Analysis
For specific types of dog arthritis, like septic arthritis, we may use a method known as joint fluid analysis. In this diagnostic test, we will take a small sample of fluid from your dog’s affected joint. Once we have the sample, we’ll examine it to check for any signs of infections and inflammation.
How is Arthritis in Dogs Treated?
While a dog's arthritis can't be completely cured, it can be managed. With the right treatment plan, dogs can continue to enjoy life with less discomfort and more movement. Here’s how we help dogs with arthritis:
Medications
One of the most common ways to treat arthritis in dogs is through medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other pain medications can help relieve your dog's pain. These are one of the safest options to manage your dog's joint pain.
Joint Supplements
Many dogs with arthritis benefit from joint supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids. These supplements help support cartilage health, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. While supplements aren’t a replacement for medication, they act as supportive treatments that can aid in helping your dog with its symptoms.
Physical Therapy
A safe and controlled exercise routine is essential for maintaining muscle strength and joint mobility. Activities like walking or swimming help keep joints flexible, but it’s important to set limitations to avoid too much stress. About 40 minutes of walking divided into 3 to 4 sessions should be enough for some light exercise.
Hydrotherapy is also particularly effective because it allows your dog to exercise without exerting any pressure on the joints. You can also enlist the aid of dog trainers to help exercise your dog’s muscles safely through physical therapy and massages.
Weight Management
Your dog’s weight is a big factor in joint health. Extra weight will create extra stress for your dog’s joints. The more your dog’s weight is managed, the less stress and strain is exerted on its bones and joints, allowing for steady management. Switching to a specialized diet for weight and joint health will be helpful.
Alternative Therapies
Some dogs find relief through alternative therapies, including acupuncture, laser therapy, and massage therapy. The methods will reduce pain, help improve circulation, and encourage the body to heal.
Surgery
In severe cases where other treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be considered. Procedures such as joint replacement, arthroscopy, or joint fusion can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.
How to Help a Dog With Arthritis?
If your dog is currently dealing with arthritis, vet checkups should be done regularly. Routine visits allow our vets to monitor the progression of arthritis. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and other prescribed therapies must be routinely followed. Stick to the treatment plan and always keep an eye out for your dog.
At home, it’s important to make it a little bit more friendly for your best friend. Dogs with arthritis tend to have difficulty with their movement, so a few home adjustments can be helpful. These include:
Orthopedic dog beds
Dog wheelchairs
Non-slip mats
Ramps
Rear harnesses
Slightly elevated bowls
Support wraps
How to Prevent Arthritis in Dogs?
While arthritis can’t be completely prevented, there are things you can do to reduce the risk and delay its onset. Focus on your dog’s weight, joint health, and overall health.
Keep Your Dog at Healthy Weight. Keep your dog’s diet filled with healthy fats and high-quality protein. Maintaining a good weight will help reduce joint strain.
Provide Joint-Friendly Nutrition. Joint supplements support cartilage health and reduce inflammation, keeping joints strong.
Encourage Gentle and Controlled Exercise. Low-impact activities like short walks and swimming keep joints flexible without adding stress. Avoid excessive jumping or rough play.
Prevent Joint Injuries. Using ramps, soft bedding, and other helpful equipment can keep the home safe for your dog. Warmups before play can also help protect the joints.
Regular Visits. Routine vet visits can detect early signs of joint issues, such as arthritis in dogs. This allows us to address the issue earlier before it gets worse.
Our dogs give us their best years. It's our job to make sure their golden years are just as happy and comfortable.
- Dr. Mafalda Sardinha
Conclusion
Arthritis is a common condition in dogs, but it doesn’t have to define their quality of life. With early detection, proper treatment, and a few lifestyle adjustments, your dog can continue to enjoy their daily walks, playtime, and companionship for years to come.
The key is understanding their needs and taking proactive steps to keep them comfortable. If your dog is showing signs of arthritis, don’t wait to take action. The earlier you start a treatment plan with us, the happier your dog will be.
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