Did you know that 40% of dogs (especially large breeds) show signs of arthritis, but 50% remain undiagnosed?*
Arthritis can be a little sneaky like that. Many pups don’t wake up one day dramatically limping. Instead, they make small “adjustments” to avoid discomfort. Maybe your dog takes the shorter route on walks, pauses before jumping, or seems stiff for the first few steps after a nap.
Because dogs are good at masking pain, arthritis can go unnoticed longer than you might expect. The good news? With early recognition and support from our veterinarians, many dogs with osteoarthritis can stay comfortable, mobile, and happy in their daily routines.
What Is Arthritis in Dogs?
In dogs, “arthritis” most often means osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease (DJD). It is a long-term condition where a joint gradually changes over time, often due to wear and tear, past injury, or underlying orthopedic issues (like hip or elbow dysplasia). Those joint changes can lead to inflammation, stiffness, and joint pain, especially with movement.
Osteoarthritis doesn’t just affect cartilage. Over time, it can also impact the tissues around the joint (muscles, tendons, ligaments), which can further limit mobility and comfort.
Arthritis is more common in adult and senior dogs and is often seen in large-breed dogs, but it can show up earlier than many pet owners might expect.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis symptoms can look like “slowing down,” but pain is not a normal part of aging. Below are common physical and behavioral clues that can point to chronic joint pain.
Limping, Stiffness, and Mobility Changes
You might notice:
Limping or favoring one leg (sometimes it comes and goes)
Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning or after a long nap
Slower movement on walks, shorter strides, or lagging behind
Difficulty standing up or needing extra time to “get going”
Trouble with climbing stairs
Changes that seem worse in the back legs (often linked to hip or knee discomfort)
Here’s a helpful clue! Some dogs look “fine” once they are moving because stiffness can ease a bit as they warm up. That is one reason arthritis can be missed early.
Changes in Activity and Behavior
Pain does not only show up in movement; it can change your dog’s mood and routines. Watch for:
Less interest in walks, play, or favorite games
Sleeping more or choosing to rest away from busy areas
Irritability, especially when touched near a sore area or asked to move
Hesitation jumping into the car or onto furniture (or “asking” for help)
Avoiding slick floors or moving cautiously to prevent slipping
Signs of Chronic Joint Pain
Some symptoms are subtle but meaningful:
Licking or chewing at a joint area
Difficulty getting comfortable, frequent repositioning, or restlessness
Muscle loss in a limb your dog uses less
A gradual pattern of changes that worsen over time
If you are thinking, “Wait . . . that’s my dog,” you are not alone. Arthritis is commonly underrecognized, especially in the early stages.
Why Early Detection Matters
It’s easy to chalk changes up to “normal aging,” but earlier support can make a real difference:
Comfort improves sooner. Pain affects sleep, mood, mobility, and daily enjoyment.
It can help prevent a downward cycle. When a dog hurts, they move less. Less movement can lead to muscle loss and stiffness, which can make mobility even harder.
You may have more options. Early arthritis management can include lifestyle changes, rehab, nutrition, and medications tailored to your dog’s needs.
Bottom line: Noticing arthritis earlier gives our veterinarians more room to build a plan that supports comfort and protects mobility long-term.
How Our Veterinarians Diagnose Arthritis in Dogs
A diagnosis usually starts with two things: What you are seeing at home and what our veterinarian finds at the time of the exam.
Physical Exams and Mobility Assessments
Our veterinarians may:
Check joints for discomfort, swelling, or thickening
Evaluate range of motion and your dog’s response to gentle joint movement
Look for muscle changes and do a gait assessment (how your dog walks)
Tip: A video of your dog walking, standing up, or using stairs at home can help your veterinarian see what you are seeing. This is important because symptoms often show up in everyday life.
Diagnostic Imaging and Medical History
Depending on symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend:
X-rays to look for joint changes consistent with arthritis
A review of activity changes, past injuries, and patterns of discomfort to identify the affected joint(s)
Because arthritis can affect more than one joint, our veterinarians may evaluate multiple areas, especially in large-breed and senior dogs.
Treatment for Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis care is typically multimodal, meaning the best results often come from combining approaches (medication, movement support, weight management, and more). Our veterinarians will tailor a treatment plan to your dog’s age, overall health, lifestyle, and the severity of symptoms. Important safety note: Do not give human pain medications to your dog unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to. Some over-the-counter medications that help people can be dangerous for dogs.
Pain Medications and Anti-Inflammatory Treatments
Depending on your dog’s needs, your veterinarian may discuss:
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Common examples you may hear about include carprofen (Rimadyl)** and meloxicam, but your veterinarian will decide what is appropriate and safe for your dog.
Grapiprant (Galliprant)***, another medication (EP4 inhibitor) option used for chronic osteoarthritis pain in dogs.
Gabapentin, which may be used as an add-on in some chronic pain plans, depending on your dog and the type of pain involved.
A monthly in-hospital dose option such as Librela (bedinvetmab)****, which is labeled for the control of pain associated with osteoarthritis in dogs. As with any medication, our veterinarians can help you weigh expected benefits and potential side effects for your dog’s specific situation.
Because every dog is different, and medications can have risks, interactions, or monitoring needs, this is an area where veterinarian guidance matters. If budgeting is part of the decision-making (totally understandable), ask about payment options. The CareCredit credit card helps clients pay for veterinary care over time with promotional financing options, offering no interest if paid in full within 6- or 12-month financing options.***** Plus, it’s accepted at every Thrive Pet Healthcare partner hospital!
No impact to your credit score.
Weight Management and Nutrition
If your dog is carrying extra weight, even a modest reduction can make a noticeable difference by reducing stress on affected joints. Beyond carrying extra weight, fat cells also contain Leptin, pro-inflammatory hormone, that can contribute to OA. Nutrition support may include:
A veterinarian-guided plan for weight management (calories, treats, and activity)
Omega-3 fatty acids, which may support joint health as part of a broader plan
Joint-support nutrition, including prescription diets formulated to support mobility and comfort
Joint Supplements and Supportive Therapies
Many dogs do best when home care and supportive therapies join the plan. Options that our veterinarians may discuss with you include:
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements (evidence varies by product and patient; your veterinarian can help you decide what is worth trying)
Physical rehabilitation and strengthening exercises to support mobility and joint stability
Low-level laser therapy (often searched as “laser treatment for arthritis in dogs”) or other modalities that may help some dogs as part of a multimodal approach
Home adjustments such as ramps, rugs for traction on slippery floors, and supportive bedding
A human-care comparison: If you have ever done physical therapy for knee or back pain, you know it is rarely one magic fix. It’s the right combination, repeated consistently. Arthritis management for dogs often works the same way.
Can Arthritis in Dogs Be Prevented?
You cannot always prevent arthritis, but you can often reduce risk and support long-term joint health with smart habits:
Maintain a healthy weight throughout adulthood.
Keep exercise regular and joint-friendly (steady walks and controlled play instead of “weekend warrior” bursts).
Address injuries early. Limping that lasts more than a day or two deserves a veterinary check.
Stick with routine veterinary care so subtle changes can be spotted sooner.
If your dog is a large breed or has known orthopedic risk factors, your veterinarian may recommend earlier monitoring and proactive joint support.
When to Schedule an Appointment for Your Dog
Persistent limping, stiffness, or “warming up” after rest
Difficulty with stairs, jumping, standing, or getting comfortable
Behavior changes (irritability, withdrawal, less interest in play)
Any pattern that suggests pain is limiting mobility or quality of life
If you’re looking for a way to make recommended care easier to fit into your routine and budget, Thrive Plus membership may help at select primary care hospitals. Benefits include Unlimited Free Exams, 10% Off Services (like Librela), $5 Basic Nail Trims, free 24/7 pet advice powered by whiskerDocs, and Exclusive Offers Year-Round.******
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early signs of arthritis in dogs?
Early signs often look like small mobility changes: stiffness after rest, slower movement, hesitating before stairs or jumping, and occasional limping. Some dogs also show subtle behavior shifts, like sleeping more or seeming cranky when handled.
How do you treat arthritis in dogs?
Treatment is typically multimodal: Medications for pain and inflammation, weight management, joint-support nutrition, rehabilitation, and supportive therapies. Our veterinarians will tailor the plan based on your dog’s symptoms and overall health.
What helps arthritis in dogs at home?
Home support can include keeping your dog at a healthy weight, using rugs for traction, adding ramps or steps, choosing low-impact exercise, and providing supportive bedding. Our veterinarians may also recommend specific supplements or therapies that fit your dog’s plan.
Can arthritis in dogs be prevented?
You cannot always prevent it, but healthy weight, steady low-impact activity, early attention to injuries, and routine veterinary evaluations can reduce risk and help catch changes sooner.
What is the best treatment for arthritis in dogs?
There is not one “best” treatment for every dog. The best plan is individualized and combines medication, weight/mobility support, and ongoing check-ins so our veterinarians can adjust care as your dog’s needs change.
When should I take my dog to the vet for arthritis symptoms?
If limping, stiffness, difficulty with stairs, or behavior changes last more than a day or two (or if symptoms keep recurring) schedule an exam. Earlier support can improve comfort and help protect mobility over time.
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*Wright A, Amodie DM, Cernicchiaro N, et al. Identification of canine osteoarthritis using an owner-reported questionnaire and treatment monitoring using functional mobility tests. J Small Anim Pract. 2022;63(8):609-618. doi:10.1111/jsap.13500. ZMR: 2023 OA Landscape Wave 6 Analysis: Quantitative Results. Zoetis Inc; June 2023.
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RIMDAYL IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: See full Prescribing Information. As a class, NSAIDS may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney and liver side effects. These are usually mild, but may be serious. Pet parents should discontinue therapy and contact their vet immediately if side effects occur. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended for pets on any medication, including Rimadyl. Use with other NSAIDS or corticosteroids should be avoided.
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GALLIPRANT IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: See full Prescribing Information. For use in dogs only. Keep this and all medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose. Galliprant is a non-COX inhibiting NSAID. As a class, NSAIDs may be associated with gastrointestinal, kidney and liver side effects. Evaluation for pre-existing conditions and regular monitoring are recommended. Do not use in dogs that have a hypersensitivity to grapiprant. Concomitant use of Galliprant with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids should be avoided. Concurrent use with other anti-inflammatory drugs or protein-bound drugs has not been studied. The safe use of Galliprant has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 9 months of age and less than 8 lbs (3.6 kg), dogs used for breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, or dogs with cardiac disease. Owners should be advised to observe for signs of potential drug toxicity. Adverse reactions may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, watery or bloody stools, and decreases in serum albumin and total protein.
GALLIPRANT INDICATION: Galliprant controls pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in dogs.
****LIBRELA IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: See full Prescribing Information. Librela is for use in dogs only. Women who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding should take extreme care to avoid self-injection. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, could potentially occur with self-injection. Librela should not be used in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Librela should not be administered to dogs with known hypersensitivity to bedinvetmab. Adverse events reported post-approval include ataxia (lack of balance/coordination), anorexia (loss of appetite), lethargy (tiredness), emesis (vomiting), and polydipsia (increased drinking). The most common adverse events reported in a clinical study were urinary tract infections, bacterial skin infections and dermatitis (skin irritation/inflammation).
*****Subject to credit approval. No interest will be charged on the promo purchase if you pay it off, in full, within the promo period. If you do not, interest will be charged on the promo purchase from the purchase date. The required minimum monthly payments may or may not pay off the promo purchase before the end of the promo period, depending on purchase amount, promo length and payment allocation. Regular account terms apply to non-promo purchases and, after promo period ends, to the promo balance. For New Accounts as of 5/30/24: Purchase APR 32.99%. Penalty APR 39.99%. Minimum Interest Charge $2. Existing cardholders: See your credit card agreement terms. The information herein is for promotional purposes only and Thrive Pet Healthcare and its subsidiaries/partners/facilities are not responsible for credit decisions made by CareCredit. See the CareCredit website linked above for more information on how to get the care you want or need and pay over time.
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See full terms for excluded services. whiskerDocs service does not diagnose or prescribe and is not a substitute for a visit to our hospitals. Although whiskerDocs team members are credentialed veterinary technicians, they do not operate as such in this context. Rather, they will provide you with information so that you can make the best decision on behalf of your pet. In many cases, they will recommend you see a licensed veterinarian in your state for treatment. If it is an emergency, take your pet now to the nearest veterinary emergency hospital.
