Is your dog slowing down on walks, showing stiffness after rest, or hesitating to jump onto the couch? If so, these can be signs that they’re suffering from canine arthritis. Arthritis in dogs is a condition where joint inflammation or degeneration leads to discomfort, reduced mobility, and long-term changes that affect daily life.
In this Sploot Vets guide, we’ll cover the most common signs of arthritis in dogs, treatment options, and the medications for arthritis in dogs that can help your pup stay comfortable and active.
What is Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis in dogs refers to an acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term) inflammation of the joints, typically accompanied by pain and discomfort. Depending on the type and severity of canine arthritis, structural damage to the joint may also be involved.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
While there are different types of arthritis in dogs, the following symptoms are common in all types of canine arthritis:
- Limping or a change in gait
- Reluctance to run, jump, or climb the stairs
- Slowing down during walks or play
- Possible noticeable swelling around affected joints
- Possible irritability or withdrawal from play or touch
Other symptoms of arthritis in dogs are unique to certain types of canine arthritis; these include:
- Sudden lameness, fever, and/or extreme swelling → possibly septic arthritis in dogs
- Shiftling leg lameness and/or multiple joints are affected → possibly immune-mediated polyarthritis
Note: If you notice any of the above symptoms, we recommend consulting a vet. Promptly addressing arthritis in dogs can help reduce the risk of more serious complications.
Additional Note: If your dog has sudden joint swelling accompanied by a fever, please contact an urgent care or emergency vet.
Arthritis in Dogs Treatment
The treatment given for arthritis in dogs depends on the kind of arthritis that they have. Here is a breakdown of the common treatment protocols for different types of canine arthritis:
1. Treating Osteoarthritis in Dogs
Osteoarthritis in dogs, also known as degenerative joint disease DJD), is the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage caused by aging and repetitive stress. It is the most common type of canine arthritis, affecting 25 percent of dogs. While it is most common in older dogs, osteoarthritis in dogs can occur at any age.
Canine osteoarthritis is typically treated with the following:
- Primary: anti-inflammatories, pain meds for dogs,
- Supportive: joint supplements for dogs, disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs, weight management, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, veterinary acupuncture, and/or lifestyle modifications
Note: This type of arthritis in dogs cannot be reversed or cured; however, early treatment can slow its progression, improve joint mobility, and reduce the risks of serious complications.
2. Treatment for Post-Traumatic Arthritis in Dogs
Post-traumatic arthritis in dogs develops when trauma (e.g., ligament tears, fractures, or joint dislocation) disrupts normal joint function and accelerates cartilage breakdown.
This kind of canine arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: anti-inflammatories, pain management
- Supportive: joint supplements for dogs, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, carefully guided weight management, and/or veterinary acupuncture
- For consideration: surgical repair of the underlying injury
Note: This kind of arthritis in dogs can be partially or mostly reversed, depending on the extent of damage and the promptness of treatment.
3. Treatment for Dysplasia-Related Secondary Arthritis
Common in dogs with orthopedic conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia, secondary arthritis in dogs develops when abnormal joint structure leads to instability and long-term cartilage damage.
Secondary arthritis in dogs is typically treated with the following:
- Primary: anti-inflammatories, pain management
- Supportive: weight management, joint supplements for dogs, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, and/or acupuncture
- For consideration: corrective surgery for hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia
Note: For hip dysplasia in dogs, total hip replacement (THR) surgery is often considered the most effective surgical treatment. As for elbow dysplasia, the gold standard technique is arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure to remove damaged cartilage and improve mobility.
Additional Note: While corrective surgery does not cure arthritis in dogs, it can reduce pain, slow down the progression of arthritis, or remove arthritic joints entirely (such as in the case of THR).
4. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis Treatment
Immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) in dogs is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to widespread inflammation, possibly in multiple joints. IMPA can affect any dog, but is most commonly seen in large breed dogs.
IMPA can occur due to certain medications (e.g., sulfonamide-containing medications, some antibiotics), tick-borne diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other causes.
This kind of canine arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: immunosuppressants along with compatible anti-inflammatory/pain medications
- For consideration: additional treatments to manage underlying triggers
Note: IMPA cannot be fully cured or reversed, but many dogs achieve long-term remission. However, the underlying immune dysfunction can flare up again later on.
5. Treating Septic Arthritis in Dogs (Infectious)
Common in dogs with recent wounds, surgeries, or bloodstream infections, septic arthritis in dogs is caused by bacteria or fungi entering a joint and producing severe inflammation along with other possible symptoms like fever and weakness.
This is considered a veterinary emergency as the infection can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening systemic illness, as well as rapid cartilage destruction. If you suspect that your dog has this type of arthritis, contact an urgent care or emergency veterinarian for the next steps.
This type of canine arthritis is typically treated with:
- Primary: IV antibiotics or antifungal medication, pain management, and joint flushing (i.e., washing out the infection, debris, and inflammatory cells with saline)
- For consideration: hospitalization – if the dog has a fever, lethargy, and other signs of systemic illness
Note: Septic arthritis can be reversible when treated quickly with antibiotics and joint flushing. However, delayed treatment can result in permanent cartilage damage, chronic arthritis, and life-threatening complications.
5 Medications for Arthritis in Dogs
There are different kinds of medications for arthritis in dogs. As discussed in the previous section, different medications are prescribed depending on the type of arthritis a dog has. The following is a breakdown of common medications for arthritis in dogs:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications for dogs work together to help dogs stay comfortable and mobile, especially with moderate to severe arthritis.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like carprofen, meloxicam, and deracoxib, are the main treatment for osteoarthritis and secondary arthritis because they address the root problems: inflammation and pain in the joints.
When additional support is needed, veterinarians may add pain medications that target different pain pathways for more complete relief.
2. Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drugs
Disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) are used as supportive therapy for osteoarthritis and secondary arthritis. This medication for arthritis in dogs helps protect cartilage, improve joint lubrication, and slow the progression of degenerative changes. A common example of this medication is Adequan Canine.
3. Joint Supplements for Dogs
Primarily used for osteoarthritis, secondary arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis as supportive treatment, joint supplements for dogs promote cartilage health and reduce inflammation naturally. Most of these supplements contain beneficial ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
4. Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressants are used for immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) in dogs, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. These medications reduce abnormal immune activity and relieve inflammation.
5. Antibiotic/Antifungal Medications
Antibiotics and antifungal medications are used for septic (infectious) arthritis in dogs, where bacteria or fungi enter a joint and cause acute inflammation. These medications eliminate the invading organism and are often paired with joint flushing.
Supportive Treatments for Arthritis in Dogs
Supportive treatments for canine arthritis are not considered primary therapies, but they can play an important role in managing many types of canine arthritis. When used alongside medications or surgery, these options help improve comfort, mobility, and long-term joint health.
Note: In some cases, wherein dogs cannot tolerate certain medications well, a combination of supportive treatments can be considered as an alternative.
1. Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on painful joints and significantly improve mobility in dogs with arthritis. Even small amounts of weight loss can lead to noticeable improvements in comfort and activity level. Some veterinarians may recommend weight-loss dog food, along with other lifestyle recommendations.
2. Canine Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for dogs helps strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and support joint stability. It is especially beneficial for dogs with chronic arthritis or those recovering from orthopedic surgery.
3. Cold Laser Therapy for Dogs
Cold laser therapy for dogs is a non-invasive treatment that helps reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing. It can provide additional pain relief for dogs with arthritis when used alongside other treatments.
How We Treat Arthritis in Dogs at Sploot Vets
At Sploot Veterinary Care, we treat arthritis in dogs with personalized care, precise laboratory testing, and a multimodal treatment approach to ensure your dog’s long-term well-being.
1. Physical Exam or Check-Up
We begin with a thorough physical exam to assess your pup’s mobility, comfort level, and overall joint health. Our veterinary team uses a Fear Free approach to keep your dog calm and relaxed during handling.
Urgent veterinary care is also available within our extended clinic hours, making it easy to get timely arthritis support when your pup needs it most.
2. Laboratory Tests & Imaging for Canine Arthritis
To pinpoint the underlying cause of your dog’s joint pain, we utilize our on-site veterinary diagnostics, including X-rays, joint fluid analysis (when needed), and bloodwork.
These tests help us determine whether your pup’s symptoms are due to osteoarthritis, dysplasia-related arthritis, immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA), or other conditions affecting mobility.
3. A Personalized Treatment Plan for Arthritis in Dogs
Every dog’s arthritis journey is unique, which is why we tailor a treatment plan to meet your pup’s specific needs. This may include targeted medications for pain and inflammation. Our vets may also prescribe immunosuppressants or antibiotics as needed.
We can also explore supportive treatment options like supplements, physical therapy, cold laser therapy, veterinary acupuncture, and lifestyle changes to support long-term joint health and improve daily comfort for dogs with chronic arthritis.
Final Thoughts on Arthritis in Dogs
This wraps up our guide about arthritis in dogs. As a final note, here are some answers to common questions pet parents ask about arthritis in dogs:
Can Dogs Live Comfortably with Arthritis?
Yes, with proper treatment, many dogs can live comfortably for years with arthritis. Early diagnosis and consistent care make the biggest difference in long-term comfort.
How Long Can a Dog Live with Arthritis?
Arthritis in dogs, by itself, is not life-threatening (except for septic or infectious arthritis, which needs urgent treatment). As for other types of chronic arthritis in dogs, most dogs enjoy a normal lifespan with the right management.
The key factor is quality of life; when pain is controlled and mobility is supported, dogs can stay active and happy well into their senior years.
Should I Still Walk My Dog If They Have Arthritis?
Yes, if your dog’s arthritis is already being treated by a veterinarian, gentle, controlled walks can be beneficial. Regular movement keeps your dog’s joints flexible and lubricated; it also helps maintain muscle strength, which supports the affected joints.
However, we recommend adjusting the pace of your dog’s walk based on their comfort level and avoiding high-impact activities.
Sploot Vets: Experience Next-Level Vet Care
Whether you need guidance on treating arthritis in dogs or other canine health issues, we’re always here to help!
Sploot Veterinary Care is a trusted provider of next-level veterinary care with unparalleled convenience. We offer primary care, urgent care, and emergency services all under one woof™. In addition, with our Fear Free veterinary approach, we keep your dog as comfortable as possible in every visit.
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Book your vet appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app today!
