How to Ease Dog Arthritis Pain: Tips and Remedies

Understanding Arthritis Pain in Dogs

Arthritis is a degenerative joint condition that develops over time. The pain can make it difficult for dogs to move, play, or even stand up comfortably. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints wears down due to age, injury, or underlying conditions. This results in painful friction between bones and triggers inflammation.

How Arthritis Causes Pain

Arthritis pain stems from the combined effects of cartilage deterioration, inflammation, and structural changes in the joints. When the cartilage wears away, the bones within the joint start rubbing against each other, causing irritation and swelling.

The body’s natural inflammatory response worsens the situation by releasing chemicals that make the joint sensitive and stiff.

As arthritis gets worse, the joints produce less lubricating fluid, and extra bone (bone spurs, known as osteophytes) can form. These make it harder for the joints to move appropriately and increase pain.

Sometimes, the swollen joints can press on nearby nerves, causing constant discomfort. This creates a cycle of pain and difficulty moving, which is why it’s important to recognize and manage arthritis early to help your dog feel better. Early management is also essential because arthritic change is irreversible, so slowing the progression once noted is key to longevity of your dog’s joints.

How Pain Differs Based on Severity and Individual Dogs

No two dogs experience arthritis in the same way. In mild cases, dogs may show slight stiffness or discomfort after rest, but they can still enjoy regular activity.

As arthritis progresses to moderate or severe stages, symptoms like limping, difficulty moving, and constant pain become more noticeable, significantly affecting their quality of life.

Larger breeds, older dogs, and those who are overweight often experience more severe symptoms, while smaller or younger dogs tend to cope better initially.

Each dog’s experience with arthritis is unique. Factors like breed, weight, age, and pain tolerance influence how they show discomfort.

Active dogs may push through pain early on, while less active dogs might display symptoms sooner.

Tips to Ease Dog Arthritis Pain

Helping a dog with arthritis isn’t just about administering medications or treatments; it’s about making their daily life more comfortable and manageable. Small changes in their environment and routine can make a big difference in reducing pain and improving mobility.

Here are some practical ways to start.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

When your pup is dealing with arthritis, their environment should support their needs and reduce unnecessary strain on their joints.

Provide Orthopedic Dog Beds

Arthritis pain often flares up after rest because stiff joints take time to loosen up. Orthopedic dog beds are designed to cushion pressure points and evenly distribute your dog's weight. Look for a bed with memory foam or gel padding for optimal support.

Use Ramps or Steps to Reduce Strain

Does your dog love the couch or bed? Instead of letting them jump up and down, which can be hard on their joints, provide ramps or pet stairs. These are especially helpful for dogs with arthritis in their hips, knees or back. Place ramps near cars, furniture, or anywhere they’d usually need to jump. Small dogs can also be lifted up and down.

Keep Their Space Warm During Colder Months

Cold weather can stiffen joints and make arthritis pain worse, just like it does for humans. Keep their favorite resting spot warm with a blanket or pad designed for pets. If used inappropriately, heating pads can cause thermal burns, so they must be used with caution and under supervision. Make sure drafts are blocked, and consider adding a sweater for your pup if they’re comfortable wearing one.

Nutrition and Weight Management

Good nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight are very important for dogs with arthritis. Extra weight puts more pressure and strain on their joints, making the pain and stiffness worse.

To help your dog, feed them a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs without adding unnecessary calories. Your vet can recommend a special diet or food designed for dogs with joint problems.

Adding supplements like NN COXAN Dog that contain omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine can help reduce inflammation and improve joint health. These are often found in high-quality dog foods, but they can also be given as treats or capsules if your vet approves.

Always avoid overfeeding, no matter how tempting those puppy eyes look, because even a small amount of extra weight can worsen arthritis symptoms.

Regular weight checks and portion control are key to keeping your dog comfortable and healthy.

Gentle Exercise Routines

Exercise is important for keeping your dog’s muscles strong and their joints flexible, but it needs to be done carefully.

Gentle, low-impact activities like short walks or swimming are excellent for dogs with arthritis. These exercises improve circulation and reduce stiffness without putting too much strain on their joints.

Avoid exercises that involve jumping or running, as they can worsen joint pain. Instead, focus on consistent but more manageable activities to keep them active without overexerting them.

Always let your dog set the pace, and watch for signs of discomfort, like limping or refusing to move. If they seem tired or in pain, give them a break and try again later.

Regular but gentle movement helps prevent their joints from becoming too stiff while supporting overall mobility.

Massage and Physical Therapy

Massage and physical therapy can greatly benefit dogs with arthritis by reducing pain and improving flexibility.

Gentle massages help increase blood flow to stiff joints, easing discomfort and promoting relaxation. You can use slow, circular motions around the affected joints, but avoid pressing too hard. Always watch for your dog’s reaction; if they seem uncomfortable, stop immediately.

Physical therapy, such as underwater treadmill exercises or stretching routines guided by a professional, can strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility.

Some dogs may benefit from acupuncture or laser therapy, which are offered by many veterinary clinics. These treatments not only reduce inflammation but also enhance your dog’s overall comfort and quality of life.

Adjusting Daily Activities

Managing your dog’s arthritis involves tweaking their daily routine to match their needs. Shorten walks to prevent overexertion, but keep them regular to maintain joint mobility. Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on their neck during walks.

Make daily tasks easier for them by placing food and water bowls at a comfortable height, so they don’t have to bend down too much. Avoid slippery floors, as they can make movement harder; add rugs or mats for better traction.

Lastly, schedule rest periods throughout the day, ensuring your dog gets enough downtime to recover after the activity. Small adjustments like these can make life much easier for a dog with arthritis.

Remedies to Relieve Arthritis Pain

Easing arthritis pain in dogs often requires a combination of approaches tailored to your furry friend’s needs.

Let’s break it down.

Medications

Medications are a key part of managing arthritis pain in dogs. The most common medications used are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

These drugs, such as Carprofen and Meloxicam, are prescribed by veterinarians. It’s important to give these medications exactly as prescribed, as misuse can lead to side effects like stomach ulcers or kidney problems. It is also important not to use human NSAIDs on dogs as they can be toxic.

If these aren’t enough, additional pain relievers like Gabapentin and Tramadol may be prescribed.

In some cases, corticosteroids may be used for severe pain, though they are typically prescribed for short-term use due to their potential side effects.

For more advanced arthritis,injectable medications like Adequan (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) can help rebuild cartilage and reduce inflammation, providing long-term benefits.

Advanced treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies approved by the FDA (e.g., Librela) and regenerative therapies like PRP or stem cell therapy, offer cutting-edge options for more severe cases, helping to slow joint damage and reduce pain.

Alternative Therapies

In addition to traditional medications, alternative therapies can offer significant relief for dogs with arthritis.

One such therapy is acupuncture, which involves inserting small needles at specific points on the body to stimulate blood flow and relieve pain. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility with minimal side effects.

Laser therapy is another option that uses low-level lasers to stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain. It works by promoting cellular repair and improving circulation to the affected joints. Many veterinarians offer these therapies, and they can be particularly effective in combination with other treatments.

Additionally, chiropractic care may be beneficial for some dogs by helping realign their spine and joints, which can improve overall movement and reduce pain.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Temperature therapy is a simple yet effective way to soothe arthritis pain at home.

• Heat Therapy:

  Applying a warm compress to stiff joints can help relax muscles and improve blood flow. Use a pet-safe heating pad or a warm towel (not too hot!) for 10-15 minutes, especially after rest periods.

• Cold Therapy:

  If your dog’s joints are swollen or inflamed, cold therapy can provide quick relief. Wrap a cold pack in a cloth and apply it to the affected area for 10 minutes. This is particularly helpful after exercise or a flare-up.

Make sure your dog is comfortable during these treatments, and never leave them unattended with a heating pad or ice pack.

Natural Remedies & Supplements

If you’re looking for a more holistic approach, natural remedies and supplements can be excellent options to support joint health and manage pain.

• Glucosamine and Chondroitin:

  These supplements are the building blocks of healthy cartilage. Many joint supplements like NN COXAN Dog, combine them to help repair damaged tissue and improve mobility over time.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

  Found in fish oil, omega-3s are natural anti-inflammatories that can help reduce joint swelling. They’re often included in therapeutic diets or available as standalone supplements.

• Turmeric:

  Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. You can find it in dog-safe supplements designed for joint support.

• CBD Oil:

  Cannabidiol (CBD) is increasingly used for managing chronic pain in dogs. Look for a high-quality, pet-specific product and start with a low dose to see how your dog responds. Consider consulting your vet first.

• Herbal Remedies:

  Herbs like Boswellia are known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Always check with your vet before introducing any new herbal treatments.

About Amanda Chambers - Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Amanda Chambers is a full-time small animal general practitioner based in Kansas City, MO. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from Northwest Missouri State University and a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Missouri. While Amanda treats a variety of conditions in dogs and cats, her primary interests lie in dermatology and ophthalmology. She shares her home with her husband, Jake, their two cats, Lilly and Creed, and a Golden Retriever named Malcolm. Outside of her profession as a veterinarian, Amanda is passionate about writing, editing and reading.