Arthritis in Older Dogs: Recognising the Changes and Helping them Cope

When the Stride Slows: Understanding Arthritis and Mobility Decline in Older Dogs

As dogs age, owners often notice them moving less or hesitating before walks and stairs. These changes are not always just “getting old.” They can signal arthritis — a progressive joint condition that causes pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.

With early recognition and veterinary care, most dogs with arthritis can remain comfortable, active, and happy for many years.

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What Is Canine Arthritis and Why It Matters

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease in dogs. It occurs when cartilage within joints breaks down, leading to inflammation, pain, and bone changes that restrict movement.

According to research from the Journal of Small Animal Practice and Veterinary Therapeutics, around 20 to 40 percent of dogs show signs of osteoarthritis during their lifetime, with prevalence increasing sharply with age and weight.

While arthritis cannot be cured, a tailored management plan can dramatically reduce pain, slow progression, and improve your dog’s day-to-day wellbeing.

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Recognising the Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis develops gradually, so the symptoms can be easy to miss. Watch for:

• Stiffness when getting up, especially after rest or in cold weather
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or get into the car
• Reduced enthusiasm for walks or play
• Limping or favouring one leg
• Irritability or withdrawal when touched near sore joints

Because these signs progress slowly, owners sometimes assume they are normal ageing changes. However, early treatment makes a major difference in comfort and mobility.

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Common Risk Factors

Factor	Influence
Age	Senior dogs are far more likely to develop joint degeneration.
Breed and size	Large and giant breeds (e.g. Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers) are particularly prone.
Excess body weight	Added weight puts extra stress on joints and worsens inflammation.
Previous injury or joint disease	Cruciate ligament injury or hip/elbow dysplasia often lead to secondary arthritis.

Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing injury in young dogs helps protect joints later in life.

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How Vets Diagnose Arthritis in Dogs

Diagnosis begins with a detailed conversation about your dog’s daily habits followed by a physical and orthopaedic assessment. Your vet may recommend:

1. Movement and gait analysis – observing how your dog walks and rises.
2. Joint examination – checking for swelling, pain, or reduced flexibility.
3. X-rays or advanced imaging – confirming arthritis and identifying affected joints may be needed.
4. Blood and urine tests – ensuring overall health before long-term medication.
5. Pain scoring tools – structured questionnaires to monitor improvement over time.

This approach ensures your dog’s treatment plan is safe, individualised, and effective.

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Dog Arthritis Treatment: Ways to Ease Pain and Improve Mobility

Managing arthritis in dogs requires a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing monitoring — known as a multimodal approach.

Weight control and nutrition

Keeping your dog slim is one of the most powerful ways to ease pressure on joints. Special veterinary diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and glucosamine can further support joint health.

Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications

Your vet may prescribe:

• NSAIDs such as carprofen, meloxicam, or cimicoxib to control inflammation and stiffness.
• Gabapentin or amantadine to help manage chronic pain.
• Monoclonal antibody therapy (Librela) — a once-monthly injection that targets pain pathways and has shown excellent results in dogs with osteoarthritis.

All medications are prescribed based on individual health status and monitored carefully through routine check-ups.

Environmental adaptations

Home changes can make daily life easier:

• Provide non-slip flooring or rugs to help with traction.
• Offer a supportive, padded bed in a warm and easily accessible area.
• Use ramps instead of stairs or jumping into vehicles.
• Keep food and water bowls raised to reduce bending.

Small environmental improvements can greatly reduce strain and pain.

Gentle exercise and physiotherapy

Regular, low-impact exercise helps maintain muscle mass and flexibility. Short, frequent walks are better than long strenuous ones. Swimming and hydrotherapy can be excellent options if available.
Your vet or a canine physiotherapist can design a safe exercise plan for your dog’s specific needs.

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Monitoring Progress and Long-Term Management

Arthritis is a lifelong condition that requires regular monitoring. Keep a diary of your dog’s movement, appetite, and energy levels. Return for follow-up appointments to assess comfort and adjust treatment as needed.

Periodic blood tests are recommended for dogs on long-term medication to ensure organ health and safety. With close veterinary supervision, most dogs experience a substantial improvement in mobility and mood.

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Supporting Your Dog at Home

Caring for a dog with arthritis involves consistency, patience, and observation. Regular gentle exercise keeps joints supple while maintaining a healthy body weight helps reduce strain. Providing soft bedding in a warm, accessible area can make rest more comfortable, and non-slip mats prevent accidental slips on hard floors. Follow all veterinary medication instructions carefully and never give human painkillers, as these can be toxic to dogs. Keep your dog’s environment calm and predictable, especially during colder months when stiffness can worsen, and monitor for changes in appetite, energy, or mobility. With attentive home care and veterinary support, your dog can continue to enjoy an active and happy life.

Arthritis in older dogs is a common but very manageable condition. With early recognition, good pain control, and small lifestyle adjustments, dogs can continue to enjoy active, happy lives well into their senior years.

If your dog is slowing down, struggling with stairs, or seems sore after rest, arrange a veterinary check-up. Early treatment helps keep tails wagging for years to come.