Arthritis in dogs: symptoms to look for and how to manage it

Many owners assume a dog is slowing down simply because of age. Often, though, the cause is arthritis, which is painful and treatable. This guide explains what arthritis is, how to spot it early and what you and your vet can do about it.

What is arthritis in dogs?

Arthritis, or osteoarthritis, is a condition that makes joints swollen, stiff and painful. PDSA explains that the bone surfaces in a healthy joint are smooth and glide past each other. In an arthritic joint the surfaces become uneven and worn, so they rub, and the joint gradually thickens and produces extra bone that causes more pain.

Arthritis is progressive, which means it slowly gets worse. It can't be cured, but it can be managed well.

What causes it?

PDSA lists several causes:

• Wear and tear over a lifetime.
• Abnormal joint development, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, which carries a high chance of arthritis later.
• Injuries to a joint, which often lead to arthritis later in life.
• Genetics: some breeds are born with a higher risk.

How common is it, and which dogs are most at risk?

A large UK study published in 2018 using VetCompass vet records found that around 2.5% of dogs under vet care were diagnosed with osteoarthritis in a year, equal to roughly 200,000 dogs. The median age at diagnosis was 10.5 years, although arthritis can start much earlier.

The same study found a diagnosis was more likely in dogs that were:

• older than eight years;
• heavier than average for their breed and sex;
• male, or neutered;
• of certain breeds, including the Rottweiler, Old English Sheepdog, Dogue de Bordeaux, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd and Border Collie.

If you have a breed prone to hip dysplasia, such as a Labrador or German Shepherd, ask the breeder about the parents' results under the BVA/Kennel Club Hip Dysplasia Scheme before you buy. Screening can't guarantee healthy joints, but it helps breeders reduce the risk.

What are the symptoms of arthritis in dogs?

PDSA lists these common signs:

• stiffness, especially after rest or after walks;
• limping or lameness;
• weak muscles in the back legs, so the hips and back end look narrower;
• slowing down on walks;
• being quiet, grumpy or sleeping more;
• low energy;
• saliva-stained fur from licking painful joints;
• reluctance to jump or climb stairs;
• swollen or enlarged joints.

The signs owners often miss

Canine Arthritis Management, a UK organisation set up to support owners of arthritic dogs, points out that arthritis pain is usually long-term and low-level. Dogs rarely yelp or cry out. Instead they change their behaviour gradually. Watch for:

• difficulty settling or getting comfortable, or restlessness at night;
• struggling to squat or cock a leg to go to the toilet;
• becoming less tolerant of handling or grooming;
• new sensitivity to noise, or reacting more to other dogs or people;
• sitting or lying down lopsided;
• uneven wear on the nails.

Because these changes come on slowly, they are easy to mistake for normal ageing. If you notice any of them, book a vet appointment. Contact your vet straight away if your dog is in severe pain or can't put weight on a leg.

How do vets diagnose and treat arthritis?

Your vet will examine your dog, watch them move, feel the joints for pain and swelling, and ask how they have changed at home. X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis and see which joints are affected.

Pain relief

PDSA explains that anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed by your vet reduce swelling and pain. They may be given every day or in courses of a few weeks. If they don't give enough relief, your vet can add or switch to other types of pain relief. Tell your vet if the pain seems poorly controlled, because there are several options to try.

Never give your dog human painkillers. PDSA warns that ibuprofen is toxic to dogs and can cause stomach ulcers and kidney damage. Only give medicines your vet has prescribed for your dog.

Joint supplements

Joint supplements are sold as tablets, liquids, chews and in some foods. PDSA says they help some dogs but not all, and they aren't a replacement for pain relief. Quality varies, so ask your vet which product to use.

Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy

Hydrotherapy is exercise in water that puts less strain on the joints. Your vet can recommend a suitable centre.

Surgery

For severe pain that can't be controlled, joint fusion or replacement may be an option. These operations are usually done at specialist hospitals.

How to help an arthritic dog at home

PDSA recommends these changes alongside your vet's treatment:

Ask your vet before starting a new exercise plan, and take older dogs for regular check-ups so early signs are picked up.