Contents
- Overview
- What is arthritis?
- Symptoms
- Causes
- Treatment
- Managing arthritis in dogs
- Home care for arthritis
- When to contact your vet
- Outlook
- Prevention
- Cost
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Overview
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis) is a very common condition that causes stiff, painful, swollen joints.
- Arthritis makes moving around difficult and uncomfortable.
- Arthritis is progressive, meaning it gets slowly worse over time.
- Arthritis can’t be cured but fortunately, there are several treatment options to slow it’s progression and manage pain.
- Keep your dog’s joints as healthy as possible by keeping them slim and giving them regular, sensible exercise
- Contact your vet if you suspect your dog might have arthritis.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis (osteoarthritis) is a condition that affects joints and causes them to become swollen and painful.
Bones in a healthy joint have a smooth surface, which allows them to glide past each other when moving around. A joint with arthritis has an uneven and worn surface, which means that instead of gliding, the bone surfaces rub against each other, causing swelling and pain.
Over time, arthritic joints become gradually thickened and stiff because and they start to produce new bone that isn’t needed. The extra bone causes more pain when your dog moves around.
Healthy joint vs. arthritic joint. Click image to enlarge.
Symptoms
Symptoms of arthritis in dogs include:
- Stiffness (especially after rest or after walks)
- Limping/lameness
- Narrowing of the hips and back end (weak muscles in the back legs)
- Slowing down on walks
- Being quiet, grumpy or sleeping more
- Low energy (lethargy)
- Saliva stained fur around painful joints
- Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- Enlarged or swollen joints.
Causes
Normal wear and tear
- Normal wear and tear can lead to arthritis later in life.
Genetics
- Unfortunately, some breeds of dog are born with an increased risk of developing arthritis:
- Labradors (hips and elbows)
- Springer Spaniels (hips and elbows)
- German Shepherds (spine, hips, elbows)
- Golden Retrievers (hips)
- Rottweilers (hips and elbows)
- Bernese mountain dogs (hips and elbows)
- Screening schemes are in place for some of these breeds to try to improve their genetics, for example those operated by the British Veterinary Association and Kennel Club.
Abnormally shaped bones or cartilage
- If your dog has abnormally shaped bones or abnormal cartilage such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, there is a high chance they will develop arthritis.
Injuries
- Injuries often lead to arthritis later in life.
Treatment
Treatment may include:
Pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce swelling and pain. They are usually given as an ongoing daily dose, or in pulses for a few weeks at a time.
- If anti-inflammatory medication doesn't give enough pain relief, other types of pain relief may be an option. Your vet will be able to recommend which might be appropriate for your dog.
Joint supplements
- Joint supplements aren’t a replacement for medications, and don't work for all dogs.
- Joint supplements can be used at the same time as most other medicines.
- There are many joint supplements of varying quality on the market. Your vet will be able to advise on a suitable product.
Hydrotherapy
- Hydrotherapy can be a useful exercise that doesn’t put too much strain on joints. Your vet will be able to advise an appropriate hydrotherapy centre.
Surgery
- If your dog's arthritic pain is severe and uncontrollable, joint surgeries such as fusion (arthrodesis) or replacements may be considered. These surgeries are often only available at specialist veterinary hospitals.
Managing arthritis in dogs
Video found at youtu.be/Qx_1_nvHWFU
Home care for arthritis
Besides medications and treatments prescribed by your vet, there are things you can do to make your dog more comfortable including:
Regular, controlled walks
- Unless your vet advises otherwise, make sure your dog has regular short walks each day. A sudden increase in exercise could make your dog stiff and painful.
- Allow your dog to walk and run a little but don’t let them jump, skid, chase balls, or run on uneven ground.
Keep your dog moving
- Unless your vet advises otherwise, encourage your dog to get up and move around throughout the day.
- Lying down for hours can cause joints to become stiff, a little bit of movement every now and then can help.
Keep your dog slim
- Keeping your dog slim is important – being overweight put lots of extra pressure on joints.
Give your dog a choice of comfortable beds
- Allow your dog to choose whether to snuggle in an enclosed bed or stretch out on a flat mattress. Memory foam beds for dogs are kind to joints.
Keep your dog warm
- Heat soothes painful joints - a heat pad under your dog’s bed may give them extra comfort, especially on cold days.
- Always dry your dog after wet walks.
- You can warm individual joints by using a hot water bottle wrapped in a blanket or towel but never leave your dog alone with a hot water bottle.
Cover slippery floors in your house
- Use rugs, carpets or anti-slip mats to make floors around the house less slippy.
- Dogs with arthritis have weak muscles, which means they are prone to slipping and struggle to get up. Slipping can cause further injury.
- If you can’t cover the whole house, focus these in the areas that your dog uses the most.
Find out more
- ‘Canine arthritis management’ is a fantastic website full of information and support for owners of dogs with arthritis.
When to contact your vet
Symptoms of arthritis often develop slowly which means it can be difficult to know when to seek help. Get in touch with your vet if you notice any of the symptoms listed above.
Older dogs benefit from regular check-ups so your vet can pick up any early signs of arthritis.
You know your dog best. If you are still concerned, contact your vet.
Find out more about PDSA Veterinary services
Outlook
Arthritis is a long-term condition that needs life-long management. Arthritis slowly worsens over time, but if well managed, most dogs can live happily for many years after diagnosis.
Let your vet know if you think your dog’s pain isn’t well controlled or you see symptoms returning. There are lots of different pain relief and anti-inflammatory medicines. If one isn’t working your vet may suggest swapping to a different medication or adding a new one.
Later in life, severe arthritis might stop responding to treatment. If your dog is in pain or very uncomfortable even with medication, you may need to consider making the very difficult decision to put them to sleep. The right time will vary for everyone but the important thing is to think about whether your dog still has a good quality of life.
Prevention
There are several things you can do to help reduce the chance of your dog developing arthritis:
Weight Control
- Keep your dog slim to ensure no extra strain is put on their joints.
Regular exercise
- Regular, controlled exercise and staying fit will help your dog's muscles stay strong and take some of the strain off their joints.
Good quality food
- Feeding a good quality food that is correct for your dog's life stage (e.g. puppy, adult or senior) will help them grow at the correct rate and receive the correct nutrients throughout their life.
Cost
Treatment for arthritis can become expensive. Think about insuring your dog as soon as you get them, before any signs of illness start, so you have all the support you need to care for them.
It’s also very important to speak openly to your vet about your finances, the cost of treatment, as well as what you think is right for your dog. There are often several treatment options so if one doesn’t work for you and your pet then your vet may be able to offer another.
Published: June 2019
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Please note, our vets and nurses are unable to respond to questions via this form. If you are concerned about your pet’s health, please contact your vet directly.
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Written by vets and vet nurses. This advice is for UK pets only. Illustrations by Samantha Elmhurst.
FAQs
What is the best thing to give a dog with arthritis? ›
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play a major role in controlling dog joint pain and inflammation. Prescription medications such Galliprant, Carprofen, and Meloxicam are the safest options for controlling pain and inflammation compared to over-the-counter, non-veterinary products.
What helps dogs with arthritis to sleep? ›- Supportive bedding, such as memory foam mattresses, are ideal for dogs with arthritis.
- Bedding should be placed in a warm/ non-drafty area of the house.
- Make sure there is non-slip flooring under and around their bed.
Just as we might not want to go right back to the gym the day after a hard workout, a pet may not be ready to exercise right away either. Rest is the best remedy for sore muscles. A good day or two of rest, sometimes even longer for an arthritic pet, may be necessary between intense periods of exercise.
How long do dogs live with arthritis? ›Arthritis is a long-term condition that needs life-long management. Arthritis slowly worsens over time, but if well managed, most dogs can live happily for many years after diagnosis.
What is end stage arthritis in dogs? ›An arthritic dog may have difficulty navigating stairs and jumping onto furniture. As arthritis progresses, your dog may be very stiff throughout the day, take short, choppy steps, and struggle to get up and down. Stairs may become difficult to impossible. End-stage arthritis can lead to the inability to stand at all.
Does CBD oil help dog arthritis? ›A new study suggests that CBD may help dogs with this painful arthritic condition. Canine osteoarthritis is an inflammatory condition marked by pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. And it can leave dogs lethargic, irritable and reluctant to play, run or jump. Unfortunately, the condition is all too common in dogs.
What is the best natural remedy for arthritis in dogs? ›Turmeric – As a type of spice rich in antioxidants, turmeric can help reduce inflammation and damage to your dog's joints. The recommended intake is 0.5-1 teaspoon of turmeric powder per day or about 15-20 mg based on your pet's body weight. Comfrey – Comfrey has pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
What natural remedy can I give my dog for pain? ›- Hot and Cold Therapy.
- Ginger.
- Turmeric.
- Boswellia.
- Devil's Claw.
- CBD Oil.
- Acupuncture.
- Fish Oil.
The severity of the lameness is often exacerbated during the night. This happens because of the soreness that builds up from too much activity during the day. This is why it is important to monitor your dog after exercise to determine how much is too much. Stiffness from inactivity during the day is another culprit.
What do you do when an old dog's back legs give out? ›If your dog's back legs suddenly collapse, plan on an emergency vet visit at a local pet emergency hospital or your regular veterinarian's office. Sometimes dogs with IVDD can recover without surgery, but other cases require IVDD surgery in dogs.
How long should I walk my dog with arthritis? ›
Regular Moderate activity
Try to avoid the 'weekend warrior': 10 minutes per day during the week and 1 hour per day on the weekend if the joints are arthritic. This can really flare them up quickly. Moderation and regularity are the key.
'Little and often' is the best approach when it comes to exercising arthritic pets. It may suit them better to take them on several short walks each day, rather than one long walk. Keep their exercise pattern as regular as possible – try to avoid short walks during the week and a really long walk at the weekend.
Do dogs cry with arthritis? ›The signs of arthritis in pets can often be subtle. Typically our pets will not cry or whine in pain. Instead, the most common signs of arthritis are changes in your pet's mobility or behavior. These signs may gradually creep up and go unnoticed until there are significant changes to your pet's mobility.
Will a heating pad help my dog's arthritis? ›Heat is a great way to reduce pain, joint stiffness, and muscle spasms. It also improves blood flow especially in dogs with injuries and osteoarthritis.
How painful is dog arthritis? ›Osteoarthritis is a common ailment found in older dogs, as well as some larger breeds that are genetically prone to it. Similarly to humans, arthritis in dogs causes changes in the affected joints that can be incredibly painful for your pet.
What triggers dog arthritis? ›Factors contributing to a dog developing arthritis include aging, congenital joint disorders like hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis, elbow dysplasia, old injuries, repeated trauma to joints, activity levels in working and athletic dogs placing increased stress on joints, obesity, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes ...
What is stage 4 arthritis in dog? ›Severe Osteoarthritis (STAGE 4)
A dog often becomes restless when standing and may be reluctant to stand or move. Other signs include consistent severe lameness, weight shift and abnormal limb loading.
- Create a prescription medication plan with your vet and track your dog's progress. ...
- A supplement a day keeps the joint pain away. ...
- Keep tabs on your dog's diet. ...
- Bring on the exercise in moderation. ...
- Help your dog get a grip. ...
- Splurge on that fancy dog bed.
When it comes to chronic joint pain relief, anti-inflammation effects, and the many health benefits that hemp oil (FYI hemp oil and CBD oil are the same thing) might bring, your dog will show signs of significant relief within 2-4 weeks.
What is the safest anti-inflammatory for dogs? ›Meloxicam: Meloxicam is one of the few FDA-approved anti-inflammatories for dogs that can also be used for humans. This anti-inflammatory can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in people and general pain and inflammation in dogs.
How do you massage a dog with arthritis? ›
Easy DIY Dog Arthritis Massage at Home - Marc Smith DVM - YouTube
What is the fastest way to cure arthritis? ›- Try an anti-inflammatory, plant-based diet. What you eat may have a direct connection with inflammatory flares or pain relief in your joints. ...
- Take a supplement. ...
- Engage in physical activities. ...
- Try heat and/or ice therapy. ...
- Talk to your doctor about hyaluronic acid injections.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is an herbal supplement used in dogs and rarely in cats as a sedative, an anti-inflammatory, and a muscle relaxant.
What foods reduce inflammation in dogs? ›Foods that are anti-inflammatory
These include celery, alfalfa, ginger, mango, papaya, blueberries, and kale, among others. Pet owners can blend these fruits and vegetables together to make a juice or smoothie and add them to the dog's daily diet.
...
There are some of the available NSAIDs just for dogs:
- carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl)
- deracoxib (Deramaxx)
- firocoxib (Previcox)
- meloxicam (Metacam )
- grapipant (Galliprant)
People with arthritis know firsthand that cold weather worsens their pain and stiffness. The same is true for dogs as cold weather can make a dog's arthritis symptoms worse.
How can you tell your dog is getting old? ›- reduced appetite.
- increased drinking (which may indicate diabetes, liver/kidney failure)
- smelly breath.
- losing weight.
- lumps or bumps.
- lethargy.
- exercise intolerance.
- increased tiredness (hypothyroidism)
Persistent and incurable inability to eat, vomiting, signs of pain, distress or discomfort, or difficulty in breathing are all indications that euthanasia should be considered. You and your family know your dog better than anyone else, so try to make a reasoned judgement on his or her quality of life.
How do you know when its time to put dog down? ›He is experiencing chronic pain that cannot be controlled with medication (your veterinarian can help you determine if your pet is in pain). He has frequent vomiting or diarrhea that is causing dehydration and/or significant weight loss. He has stopped eating or will only eat if you force feed him.
Is pumpkin good for dogs with arthritis? ›It's a common ingredient in pain remedies. Likewise, pumpkin is packed with beta carotene, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C, which are all inflammation fighters. These are limited ingredient dog treats for arthritis that are suitable for almost every pet.
Does massaging help arthritis in dogs? ›
Some benefits of massaging dogs with arthritis include: Increased circulation: Massaging your pet's muscles promotes better blood circulation, reducing any swelling and inflammation. Reduces discomfort: Gently rubbing your pet's body can help reduce the pain and inflammation.
What is the best natural remedy for arthritis in dogs? ›Turmeric – As a type of spice rich in antioxidants, turmeric can help reduce inflammation and damage to your dog's joints. The recommended intake is 0.5-1 teaspoon of turmeric powder per day or about 15-20 mg based on your pet's body weight. Comfrey – Comfrey has pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
How painful is dog arthritis? ›Osteoarthritis is a common ailment found in older dogs, as well as some larger breeds that are genetically prone to it. Similarly to humans, arthritis in dogs causes changes in the affected joints that can be incredibly painful for your pet.
Will a heating pad help my dog's arthritis? ›Heat is a great way to reduce pain, joint stiffness, and muscle spasms. It also improves blood flow especially in dogs with injuries and osteoarthritis.
Should dogs with arthritis go for walks? ›Your arthritic dog may have less enthusiasm about walks, as well as decreased stamina. However, exercise is still essential. Instead of one long daily walk, try taking multiple short, slow walks a day. As your dog tolerates it, try short and steady walks up and down steep hills.
Is heat or cold better for arthritis in dogs? ›For dogs suffering from arthritis, heat therapy is best. If your dog has recently had joint surgery, you want to use cold therapy for the first 72 hours after therapy, then switch to heat therapy. The same goes for if your dog has recently suffered an acute injury or performed strenuous exercise.
Does CBD help dog arthritis? ›A new study suggests that CBD may help dogs with this painful arthritic condition. Canine osteoarthritis is an inflammatory condition marked by pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. And it can leave dogs lethargic, irritable and reluctant to play, run or jump. Unfortunately, the condition is all too common in dogs.
What is the fastest way to cure arthritis? ›- Try an anti-inflammatory, plant-based diet. What you eat may have a direct connection with inflammatory flares or pain relief in your joints. ...
- Take a supplement. ...
- Engage in physical activities. ...
- Try heat and/or ice therapy. ...
- Talk to your doctor about hyaluronic acid injections.
Severe Osteoarthritis (STAGE 4)
A dog often becomes restless when standing and may be reluctant to stand or move. Other signs include consistent severe lameness, weight shift and abnormal limb loading.