Dog Health & CareArthritis In Dogs

Arthritis In Dogs

Arthritis in dogs causes joint pain, affecting most pups as they age. It is not only a human disease; animals also encounter the condition as the cartilage in joints degrades. Arthritis inflames, swells, or tenders the joints due to genetics, age, infection, disease, injury, or overuse. Let’s look at how you can help your furry friend if they are suffering from arthritis.

Dog Arthritis Treatment

You can do around your home and in collaboration with your veterinarian to help dogs with arthritis manage their pain and improve their joint health. You can combine different types of medications and joint supplements—to treat arthritis in dogs is the best way to ensure quality of life and successful treatment. Furthermore, you can change your pup’s daily life and environment to make him feel better. Make sure to always speak with your vet before implementing a treatment plan for your pup.

Here are some tips on how to help a dog with arthritis.

Dog Weight Management 

Weight management is an important part of relieving dog joint pain. When your pup is overweight. it increases the pressure on the joints, which leads to pain and discomfort. Controlling your dog’s weight can help ease their pain as they age. You may speak with your veterinarian about the ideal weight for your pet and long-term weight management.

Exercise

You may let your pup to physical therapymassage, and daily exercise that can be helpful for dog joint pain relief. Exercise your pup daily at a moderate level. You may start with short walks, up to 10 or 15 minutes, three to four times per day. Follow the same routine every day without high-impact activities (such as ball chasing, running, or jumping). It gives your dog some exercise without increasing stress or pain. Seek your vet before consulting a certified small animal physical rehabilitation practitioner. They can lead your dog through therapeutic exercises like passive stretching, range of motion exercises, controlled walking with obstacles and using underwater treadmills.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy in dogs can be used to help restore or improve mobility, function, and quality of life.  It may reduce weight, reduce pain, reduce inflammation, increase range of motion, improve balance, and increase muscle strength. Here are some common physical therapy techniques:

  • Passive range of motion
  • Treadmill
  • Underwater treadmill
  • Massage
  • Therapeutic exercises

Arthritis Medicine for Dogs

There isn’t a cure for arthritis in dogs, there are a few medications that can help relieve joint pain and inflammation. These include:

NSAIDsNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play a major role in controlling dog joint pain and inflammation. Galliprant® (active ingredient grapiprant) is a prescription NSAID that helps in managing pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. Other prescription NSAIDs include carprofen and meloxicam. These prescription medications are the safest options for controlling pain and inflammation compared to over-the-counter, non-veterinary products. You may be able to see the full results after three months of daily use. You must speak with your veterinarian to determine which product and dosage is right for your pet.

Adequan Injections: Adequan® is an FDA-approved injection series that veterinarians use to reduce inflammation and improve joint lubrication, supporting overall joint health and comfort.

Librela™: A unique monthly injection, Librela™ is the first anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) monoclonal antibody therapy for dogs, specifically targeting osteoarthritis pain.

Corticosteroids: In certain cases, steroids can be used short- or long-term to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, NSAIDs and steroids should never be given together due to potentially severe side effects, such as stomach ulcers. Always consult your veterinarian about any medications your dog is currently taking before adding steroids.

Joint Health Supplements for Dogs

Many supplements are formulated to help improve joint health and reduce arthritis symptoms. When choosing dog arthritis supplements, look for ingredients such as:

  • Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
  • Glucosamine hydrochloride
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (long-chain varieties like EPA, DHA, and ETA)
  • Chondroitin sulfate
  • Green-lipped mussel

These ingredients support joint structure, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Certain breeds prone to arthritis (e.g., Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds) can benefit from starting joint supplements as early as eight weeks old.

Some recommended joint supplements include:

  • Nutramax Dasuquin®
  • Bayer’s Free Form™
  • Nutramax Welactin®

Dog Food for Arthritis

While some over-the-counter dog foods contain joint-supporting ingredients, prescription veterinary diets are often more targeted for dogs with arthritis. These diets typically contain enhanced levels of omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and other joint health ingredients. Popular options include:

  • Royal Canin® Veterinary Diet Adult Advanced Mobility
  • Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d™
  • Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility

Alternative Therapies

In addition to medication and supplements, alternative therapies can support arthritis treatment:

  • Acupuncture: Inserting thin needles into specific points on the body can help relieve chronic joint pain.
  • Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy boosts blood flow to inflamed areas, helping to alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Shockwave Therapy: High-intensity sound waves reduce inflammation and ease arthritis pain.
  • Electrical Stimulation: Neuromuscular stimulation strengthens muscles and helps reduce muscle wasting. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be particularly helpful for pain relief.

How To Adjust Home for Their Comfort

Simple modifications around your home can make life easier and more comfortable for a dog with arthritis:

  • Nonslip Rugs: Dogs with arthritis may struggle with slippery floors. Using nonslip rugs or mats throughout your home, especially near stairs and furniture, can help prevent falls and reduce joint strain.
  • Orthopedic Dog Beds: A supportive, low-to-the-ground orthopedic bed can alleviate pressure on sore joints, making it easier for your dog to get up.
  • Blocking Off Stairs: Limiting your dog’s access to stairs with a pet gate, or adding non-slip grips, can protect their joints and prevent injuries.
  • Dog-Lift Harness: A sling or lift harness can be helpful for dogs with significant mobility issues, especially those affected by arthritis in the hips, knees, shoulders, or elbows, by providing gentle support as they move around the house.

Managing arthritis in dogs involves a holistic approach combining medication, supplements, alternative therapies, and home modifications. Consult your veterinarian to create the best possible treatment plan for your dog’s unique needs.

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