How to Manage Arthritis in Older Dogs

As your loyal companion enters their golden years, they may begin to show signs of ageing, one of which is arthritis. Arthritis can greatly affect your dog's quality of life, but with proper management, you can help them stay as comfortable as possible. This guide aims to shed light on managing arthritis in older dogs.

Arthritis is one part of ageing, not a complete feeding plan. For the wider questions about calories, protein, muscle and diagnosed disease, use our senior dog food and feeding guide.

What is Canine Arthritis?

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects one or multiple joints in dogs. While it is commonly associated with ageing, it can also be a result of injuries, genetics, or wear and tear on the joints.

Types of Canine Arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common form, often due to ageing or previous injuries.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that can affect dogs, although it is less common.
• Septic Arthritis: Caused by a bacterial or fungal infection in the joint.

Table: Types of Canine Arthritis and Causes

Type of Arthritis	Common Causes
Osteoarthritis	Ageing, injuries
Rheumatoid Arthritis	Autoimmune disorder
Septic Arthritis	Bacterial or fungal infection

 

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognising the symptoms of arthritis is the first step in managing the condition.

Common Symptoms:

• Limping or favouring one leg
• Difficulty in getting up from a sitting or lying position
• Obvious pain or discomfort while moving
• Swelling around the joints
• Excessive panting or signs of pain

Diagnostic Methods:

• Physical Examination: Your vet will perform a thorough physical examination.
• X-rays: To get a visual of the affected joints.
• Blood Tests: To rule out other conditions that might be causing the symptoms.

Treatment Options

Once arthritis is diagnosed, various treatment options can be considered.

Medication:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): For pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: For severe inflammation, usually short-term due to side effects.
• Joint Supplements: glucosamine and chondroitin. There is real trial evidence here, and real limits to it, set out below.

On joint supplements specifically, the evidence is better than the category's reputation and narrower than its marketing. A randomised, double-blind trial in 35 dogs with diagnosed osteoarthritis of the hips or elbows found that glucosamine hydrochloride with chondroitin sulfate produced significant improvements in pain, weight-bearing and severity scores by day 70 (P < 0.001). Two caveats matter. The comparator was carprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug, rather than a placebo, and onset was slower than carprofen's. Read the glucosamine and chondroitin trial.

What that trial does not show is that a treat containing glucosamine does the same thing. It used a therapeutic oral dose in dogs with a diagnosis, over about ten weeks. We sell a Joint Care treat, so we will be plain about it: a treat is not a therapeutic dose and should not be bought as one. If your dog has diagnosed arthritis, the dose and the product are a conversation with your vet.

Surgical Options:

• Joint Replacement: In extreme cases, replacing the joint can provide relief.
• Arthroscopy: A less invasive procedure to remove damaged tissue from the joint.

Alternative Therapies:

• Acupuncture: Some dogs find relief through acupuncture.
• Hydrotherapy: Allows for movement with less stress on the joints.

Pain Management

Managing your dog's pain is a critical aspect of dealing with arthritis.

Pain Management Strategies:

• Weight Management: Excess weight can exacerbate arthritis symptoms.
• Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises can keep joints flexible.
• Orthopaedic Beds: Provide extra support for sore joints.

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in your dog's comfort levels.

Recommendations:

• Regular, Gentle Exercise: Helps to maintain joint flexibility.
• Nutritional Adjustments: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation.
• Environmental Changes: Ramps to replace stairs, non-slip mats, and other modifications can make movement easier.

FAQs

Q: Can a younger dog get arthritis?
A: Yes, while it's more common in older dogs, younger dogs can also develop arthritis due to injuries or genetic predispositions.

Q: How can I tell if my dog's arthritis medication is working?
A: You should notice increased mobility and reduced signs of pain. If not, consult your vet for alternative treatments.

Q: Can arthritis be cured in dogs?
A: Unfortunately, arthritis is generally a lifelong condition but can be managed effectively with the right treatments and lifestyle changes.

Conclusion

Managing arthritis in older dogs involves a multi-faceted approach that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes even surgical interventions. With the right strategies, you can help your aging companion live a more comfortable and joyful life. Always consult your vet for a tailored treatment plan that best suits your dog's needs.