Arthritis in Dogs: Symptoms, Types, Causes, Signs & Prevention
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A comprehensive guide to arthritis in dogs, including common causes, risk factors, early warning signs, diagnosis, pain management, treatment options and ways to help dogs maintain comfortable mobility and a good quality of life.
Arthritis at a Glance
Most common in
Older, overweight, large-breed or previously injured dogs.
Common signs
Stiffness, limping, slower movement and difficulty rising.
Diagnosis
History, orthopedic examination and often X-rays.
Treatment
Pain control, weight management, exercise and rehabilitation.
Prognosis
Usually manageable, but arthritis is chronic and progressive.
Common joints
Hips, knees, elbows, shoulders, wrists and ankles.
What Is Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis is a general term for inflammation and painful changes within one or more joints. The most common form in dogs is osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, a chronic condition in which cartilage and other structures within the joint gradually deteriorate. As the disease progresses, inflammation, changes in the underlying bone and reduced joint mobility can cause persistent pain, stiffness and difficulty moving. Arthritis may develop because of age-related joint changes, abnormal joint development such as hip or elbow dysplasia, previous injuries, joint instability or other orthopedic conditions. Although arthritis cannot usually be cured, early recognition and appropriate management can reduce pain, support mobility and help many dogs maintain a good quality of life.
Types
Dogs can develop different types of arthritis, and each can affect the joints in different ways. Some forms are linked to wear and tear in the joints, while others may result from injury, joint abnormalities or immune-related inflammation. Understanding the most common types of arthritis can help pet parents recognize why symptoms, treatment options and long-term management can vary from one dog to another.
Osteoarthritis
The most common form of arthritis in dogs, caused by progressive deterioration of cartilage and other structures within a joint.
Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis
An inflammatory condition in which the immune system attacks multiple joints, often causing pain, stiffness and shifting lameness.
Septic Arthritis
Joint inflammation caused by infection, usually involving bacteria that enter through a wound, surgery or spread through the bloodstream.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Arthritis that develops after joint injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, dislocations or other damage to joint structures.
Developmental Joint Disease-Associated Arthritis
Arthritis that develops secondary to conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and other abnormal joint development.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A rare immune-mediated form of erosive arthritis that can damage joint cartilage and bone and progressively impair mobility.
Erosive Polyarthritis
A group of uncommon inflammatory joint diseases that progressively damage cartilage and bone within multiple joints.
Secondary Polyarthritis
Joint inflammation that develops in association with another disease or inflammatory process elsewhere in the body.
Other Inflammatory Arthritides
Includes less common joint disorders caused by inflammatory, infectious or immune-related conditions that require veterinary diagnosis.
Predisposed Dog Breeds
While arthritis can affect any dog, certain breeds have a higher risk of developing joint problems. Factors such as body size, age, genetics, previous injuries, and inherited orthopedic conditions can make some breeds more prone to arthritis than others.
| Size / Group | Breeds | Notes on Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Large & Giant Breeds | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Mastiff | Large body size places greater mechanical stress on the joints. These breeds are also more prone to orthopedic conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to osteoarthritis. |
| Medium Breeds | Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, English Springer Spaniel, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Brittany | Active medium-sized dogs may experience joint injuries or inherited orthopedic problems that increase the likelihood of degenerative joint changes later in life. |
| Small Breeds | Dachshund, French Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Certain small breeds are predisposed to structural or developmental orthopedic problems. Abnormal joint mechanics can gradually contribute to cartilage damage and arthritis. |
| Toy Breeds | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Maltese, Toy Poodle | Toy breeds commonly develop conditions such as patellar luxation. Repeated instability of the knee joint can eventually contribute to inflammation and osteoarthritis. |
| Working & Herding Breeds | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog, Belgian Malinois, Australian Cattle Dog | High activity levels, repetitive joint loading and inherited orthopedic conditions can increase the risk of joint injury, instability and arthritis over time. |
| Sporting Breeds | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, English Springer Spaniel, German Shorthaired Pointer | Athletic activity combined with genetic susceptibility to hip, elbow or knee disorders may increase the risk of osteoarthritis, especially following joint injuries. |
| Brachycephalic Breeds | French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier | Conformational differences and inherited orthopedic disorders can alter normal joint movement and increase stress on the hips, knees and other joints. |
| Other Predisposed Breeds | Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Akita, Chow Chow, Samoyed, Old English Sheepdog | Breed-related joint abnormalities, body structure and genetic susceptibility to conditions such as hip dysplasia can increase the likelihood of developing arthritis as dogs age. |
Causes
Arthritis in dogs usually develops from a combination of age-related wear, genetics, joint abnormalities, previous injuries, excess body weight, and repeated stress on the joints rather than a single cause. While arthritis cannot always be prevented, understanding the factors that contribute to joint damage can help pet parents make informed decisions about weight management, exercise, early treatment, and long-term joint care.
Genetics
Some dogs inherit traits that make them more prone to joint abnormalities and degenerative joint disease, increasing their risk of developing arthritis over time.
Age
Arthritis becomes more common as dogs age because the cartilage, joints and supporting tissues gradually experience wear and tear over the years.
Joint Abnormalities
Conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and other structural joint problems can cause abnormal movement and lead to progressive joint damage.
Previous Injuries
Fractures, ligament tears, dislocations and other joint injuries can damage cartilage and joint stability, making arthritis more likely to develop later.
Excess Weight
Being overweight places additional stress on the joints and can worsen inflammation, accelerating the progression of arthritis and reducing mobility.
Repetitive Stress & Lifestyle
High-impact activity, repetitive strain, poor conditioning or inappropriate exercise can put extra pressure on joints and contribute to long-term wear.
Inflammation or Infection
Some dogs develop arthritis because of immune-mediated joint inflammation or joint infections, both of which can damage cartilage and surrounding tissues.
Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms in dogs can vary depending on the joints affected, severity of the condition, activity level, and overall health of the dog. Some signs may be subtle at first, while others become more noticeable as joint pain and stiffness progress. Common warning signs include limping, stiffness after rest, difficulty standing up, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, reduced activity, slower walking, changes in posture, muscle loss, and irritability when painful joints are touched. Because these symptoms can also occur with other orthopedic or neurological conditions, any persistent or worsening mobility changes should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Common Symptoms
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Limping or favoring one leg
- Difficulty standing up or lying down
- Reluctance to climb stairs
- Hesitation to jump onto furniture or into the car
- Slower walking or reduced endurance
- Decreased interest in exercise or play
- Difficulty getting comfortable when resting
- Muscle loss around affected limbs
- Irritability when painful joints are touched
Arthritis commonly affects weight-bearing joints and can gradually reduce mobility.
Stages & Progression of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis in dogs can progress at different rates depending on the joints affected, underlying cause, age, body weight, activity level, and overall health. As the condition advances, cartilage damage, inflammation, stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility may become more pronounced. Understanding the stage of arthritis can help veterinarians determine how advanced the joint disease is, which treatments may be most appropriate, and how closely the dog should be monitored. Knowing the stage can also provide useful insight into long-term mobility, expected progression, and the level of supportive care your dog may need.
Early Joint Changes
Joint damage may be beginning even when obvious symptoms are minimal. Dogs may occasionally appear stiff after rest or show subtle changes in movement.
Mild Arthritis
Stiffness and discomfort become easier to notice. Dogs may be slower to rise, hesitate before jumping or climbing stairs, or tire more quickly during activity.
Moderate Arthritis
Joint pain and stiffness become more persistent. Limping, reduced activity, difficulty standing and loss of muscle around affected limbs may become more apparent.
Advanced Arthritis
Significant joint degeneration and chronic pain can greatly restrict mobility. Dogs may struggle with stairs, standing, walking or normal daily activities without ongoing support.
This chart is a simplified visual guide to arthritis progression. Dogs do not all progress at the same rate, and there is no single universal Stage I–IV system used for every case of canine arthritis. Veterinarians assess severity using symptoms, mobility, orthopedic examination findings, imaging and the individual dog’s quality of life.
Top Ways to Prevent Arthritis in Dogs
Because arthritis is often influenced by age, genetics, body weight, joint health, and lifestyle, early prevention and long-term care are essential. By maintaining a healthy weight, providing regular low-impact exercise, supporting proper joint development, preventing injuries, and scheduling routine veterinary checkups, the risk of arthritis or its progression can often be reduced. Proactive care helps protect the joints, preserve mobility, and improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life over time.
| Prevention Strategy | Why It Helps | How to Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Maintain a Healthy Weight | Excess body weight increases pressure on weight-bearing joints and can worsen pain, inflammation, and joint degeneration. | Feed measured portions, limit high-calorie treats, monitor body condition, and adjust calorie intake with your veterinarian’s guidance. |
| Provide Regular, Low-Impact Exercise | Appropriate exercise helps maintain muscle strength, joint flexibility, circulation, and overall mobility. | Use consistent activities such as controlled walks, gentle play, swimming, or other low-impact exercise suited to your dog’s age and physical condition. |
| Prevent Joint Injuries | Ligament tears, fractures, dislocations, and other joint injuries can increase the risk of post-traumatic arthritis later in life. | Avoid excessive jumping, slippery surfaces, sudden intense exercise, and activities that place unnecessary stress on the joints. |
| Support Healthy Joint Development | Proper growth is especially important for large and giant-breed puppies that may be prone to developmental orthopedic disorders. | Feed an age- and size-appropriate diet, avoid excessive calorie intake, and follow veterinary guidance during growth. |
| Schedule Regular Veterinary Checkups | Early identification of joint pain, instability, or orthopedic abnormalities can allow treatment before significant degeneration occurs. | Schedule routine wellness exams and discuss any stiffness, limping, posture changes, or reduced activity with your veterinarian. |
| Manage Orthopedic Conditions Early | Conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and ligament injuries can lead to progressive arthritis. | Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for weight control, rehabilitation, medication, activity modification, or surgery when appropriate. |
| Create a Joint-Friendly Home | Reducing slipping, jumping, and repetitive strain can help protect vulnerable joints and make everyday movement easier. | Use non-slip rugs, ramps, supportive bedding, and easy-access food, water, and resting areas when needed. |
| Monitor for Early Mobility Changes | Recognizing subtle changes early can help prevent untreated pain and allow joint disease to be managed sooner. | Watch for stiffness after rest, limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, slower walks, or reduced play. |
Actionable Resources
If you want to help manage arthritis or reduce its progression in your dog, these Canine Bible resources may be useful alongside veterinary guidance:
How Is Arthritis in Dogs Diagnosed
Diagnosing arthritis in dogs requires a comprehensive veterinary evaluation to identify which joints are affected, how severe the changes are, and whether another orthopedic or neurological condition may be contributing to the symptoms. Key steps include:
1. History & Physical Examination
Your veterinarian reviews your dog’s medical history, age, activity level, previous injuries, and mobility changes such as stiffness, limping, difficulty rising, or reluctance to exercise.
2. Orthopedic Examination
The veterinarian gently examines and moves the joints to check for pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, instability, stiffness, or abnormal joint sounds.
3. Gait & Mobility Assessment
Your dog may be observed while walking, trotting, turning, sitting, or rising so the veterinarian can identify lameness, altered posture, uneven weight bearing, or reduced mobility.
4. X-Rays
Radiographs can reveal changes associated with arthritis, including new bone formation, joint remodeling, narrowing or irregularity of joint spaces, and underlying orthopedic problems.
5. Additional Testing
Bloodwork, joint-fluid analysis, or other laboratory tests may be recommended when infection, immune-mediated arthritis, or another disease is suspected as the cause of joint pain.
6. Severity & Treatment Assessment
The veterinarian combines examination findings, mobility changes, imaging results, and your dog’s comfort level to assess disease severity and develop an individualized arthritis management plan.
Early recognition is important because arthritis is easier to manage before pain, stiffness, and mobility loss become severe—allowing for earlier treatment, better joint support, and improved quality of life.
Nutritional Support & Supplements
Proper nutrition can play an important supportive role for dogs with arthritis by helping maintain a healthy body weight, muscle mass, joint function, and overall mobility. Depending on your dog’s needs, veterinarians may recommend strategies such as calorie-controlled diets and joint-support supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, or other veterinary-recommended nutrients. Supplements should be used as part of a broader arthritis management plan rather than as a replacement for veterinary treatment.
Important: Supplements can interact with medications
and may not be appropriate for every dog.
Always discuss supplements with your veterinarian, especially if your dog
is taking NSAIDs, pain medications, or other treatments for arthritis.
Supportive care—such as pain management, weight control, nutritional support, regular low-impact exercise, and home modifications—plays a crucial role in maintaining comfort, mobility, and quality of life in dogs with arthritis. These measures do not cure arthritis but can help slow functional decline and reduce discomfort. Any diet, supplement, exercise, or pain-management plan should be reviewed with your veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for your dog and compatible with any medications being used.
Over-the-Counter Products
Over-the-counter treatments and supplements mentioned in this article for arthritis in dogs can be found on Amazon and Chewy.
Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatment, medication, or home-care regimen for canine arthritis. Puppies and dogs with persistent vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or dehydration may require prompt veterinary care. If you can’t reach your vet, you can chat live with a registered online veterinary professional via our online vet chat or video chat support (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). Or use Chewy’s online vet services (6 a.m. – midnight ET).
Treatment & Care
According to current veterinary guidance, the most effective treatment for arthritis in dogs is often multimodal, combining several approaches to improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. These may include weight management, low-impact exercise, physical rehabilitation, pain-relief medications such as NSAIDs, joint-supportive nutrition or supplements, and environmental modifications such as ramps or non-slip flooring. In more severe cases, veterinarians may also consider injectable therapies, advanced pain-management options, or surgery depending on the underlying joint problem.
Medications
Common medications used to treat arthritis in dogs include:
| Medication / Class | Examples | How It Is Used | Important Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) | Carprofen, meloxicam, firocoxib, deracoxib | Commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation, joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis. | Can affect the stomach, intestines, kidneys, or liver. Veterinary monitoring and periodic bloodwork may be recommended, especially during long-term treatment. |
| EP4 Receptor Antagonist | Grapiprant | Targets a prostaglandin receptor involved in osteoarthritis pain and inflammation and may be prescribed for dogs with chronic joint discomfort. | Possible side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or lethargy. It should be used only under veterinary supervision. |
| Monoclonal Antibody Therapy | Bedinvetmab | An injectable therapy that targets nerve growth factor (NGF), a substance involved in transmitting osteoarthritis pain. | Given by a veterinarian, typically at scheduled intervals. Dogs should be monitored for new or worsening symptoms and treatment response. |
| Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycans | Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan injections | Used in some dogs with degenerative joint disease to support cartilage and joint health as part of a broader treatment plan. | Usually administered as a series of injections. Dosing and suitability depend on the individual dog and should be determined by a veterinarian. |
| Adjunct Pain Medication | Gabapentin | May be added to a multimodal pain-management plan when arthritis pain is not adequately controlled with a single treatment. | Drowsiness, weakness, or poor coordination may occur. Dosing must be individualized by a veterinarian. |
| NMDA Receptor Antagonist | Amantadine | Sometimes used as an additional medication for chronic pain, particularly when long-standing arthritis causes persistent discomfort despite other therapies. | Usually used alongside other pain-control medications rather than as the sole treatment. Gastrointestinal upset or agitation can occasionally occur. |
| Additional Analgesics | Veterinarian-selected pain medications | Additional analgesics may be incorporated when a dog has moderate to severe pain or needs extra support during an arthritis flare. | Pain-control plans should be individualized. Drug combinations can have important interactions, so medications should never be added without veterinary guidance. |
| Corticosteroids | Prednisone, prednisolone | Not routinely used for typical osteoarthritis, but may be prescribed for certain immune-mediated inflammatory joint diseases. | Long-term use can cause increased thirst, urination, appetite, muscle loss, and immune suppression. Corticosteroids should generally not be combined with NSAIDs because of the increased risk of gastrointestinal injury. |
| Joint-Directed Therapies | Veterinarian-selected injectable or intra-articular treatments | In selected cases, therapies may be administered around or within affected joints to help manage pain, inflammation, or joint dysfunction. | These treatments are not appropriate for every dog and usually require evaluation by a veterinarian experienced in orthopedic or rehabilitation medicine. |
| Joint-Support Supplements | Omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, UC-II | May be incorporated into a multimodal arthritis plan to support joint health, mobility, and comfort. | Supplements are not substitutes for pain medication when a dog is uncomfortable. Product quality and effective doses can vary, so veterinary guidance is recommended. |
The best way to get these medications is at Chewy Pet Pharmacy:
Alternative & Integrative Therapies
Integrative and supportive therapies can help manage pain, reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and support quality of life for dogs with arthritis. Options such as acupuncture, massage, physical rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, laser therapy, and other comfort-focused approaches may be used alongside conventional treatment, but should always be discussed with your veterinarian to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dog.
Surgical Options
Surgery may be considered for some dogs with arthritis, particularly when joint pain is caused or worsened by an underlying orthopedic problem that can be corrected. Depending on the joint involved and the severity of disease, surgery may be used to stabilize an unstable joint, repair ligament or bone injuries, correct developmental abnormalities, remove damaged tissue, replace a severely affected joint, or reduce chronic pain and improve mobility. Procedures may include cruciate ligament repair, corrective bone surgery, arthroscopy, femoral head and neck excision, or total joint replacement in selected cases. Your veterinarian or veterinary orthopedic surgeon will determine whether surgery is appropriate based on your dog’s age, overall health, affected joint, severity of arthritis, and response to non-surgical treatment.
Emotional & Lifestyle Impact
Arthritis can affect both a dog’s physical comfort and daily quality of life. Dogs may experience changes in mobility, energy, sleep, activity level, and behavior as joint pain and stiffness make normal movements more difficult. Some dogs may become less playful, avoid stairs or jumping, or seem irritable when sore areas are touched. With appropriate pain management, exercise adjustments, weight control, and supportive home care, many dogs can continue to enjoy comfortable, active lives despite arthritis.
For Dogs
- May become less active because of joint pain or stiffness
- May hesitate to climb stairs, jump, run, or play
- Can have difficulty standing up or getting comfortable
- May become irritable or withdrawn when experiencing pain
- Can still enjoy walks, affection, enrichment, and family time with proper support
For Pet Parents
- Watching mobility decline can be emotionally difficult
- Daily routines may need to be adjusted around your dog’s comfort
- Home modifications may be needed to make movement safer
- Regularly monitor pain, mobility, appetite, sleep, and behavior
- Work with your veterinary team to preserve comfort and quality of life
“Arthritis may change how your dog moves, but with thoughtful care, pain management, and daily support, they can still enjoy the activities and companionship that make life meaningful.”
Better mobility.
Dog Arthritis Prognosis
A dog’s arthritis prognosis depends on several factors, including the joints affected, severity of joint damage, underlying cause, response to treatment, body weight, age, and overall health. Arthritis is usually a chronic, progressive condition, but many dogs can remain comfortable and active for years with appropriate management. Working closely with your veterinarian can help control pain, preserve mobility, slow functional decline, and maintain the best possible quality of life for your dog.
Key Factors That Influence Prognosis
Typical Annual Cost of Treating Canine Arthritis
| Category | Estimated Annual Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Diagnosis & Imaging | $250 – $1,000+ | May include veterinary examination, orthopedic assessment, bloodwork, and X-rays to identify affected joints and rule out other causes of pain or lameness. |
| Prescription Pain & Anti-Inflammatory Medications | $300 – $1,500+ | May include NSAIDs, grapiprant, gabapentin, amantadine, or other veterinarian-prescribed medications depending on the dog’s pain level and health. |
| Injectable Arthritis Therapies | $600 – $1,800+ | May include therapies such as monoclonal antibody injections or other veterinarian-administered treatments for chronic osteoarthritis pain. |
| Joint-Directed Treatments | $500 – $2,000+ | Selected dogs may receive injectable or intra-articular therapies designed to support joint function or reduce pain. |
| Physical Rehabilitation & Hydrotherapy | $600 – $2,500+ | May include therapeutic exercise, underwater treadmill sessions, strength training, stretching, and mobility rehabilitation. |
| Follow-Up Exams & Monitoring | $200 – $800+ | Routine veterinary visits and periodic bloodwork may be needed to monitor mobility, treatment response, and medication safety. |
| Nutritional Support & Supplements | $300 – $1,200+ | May include therapeutic diets, omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, UC-II, or other joint-support products. |
| Alternative / Integrative Therapies | $500 – $2,500+ | May include acupuncture, therapeutic laser, massage, or other veterinary rehabilitation and integrative treatments. |
| Home & Mobility Modifications | $100 – $1,000+ | Ramps, non-slip rugs, orthopedic bedding, mobility harnesses, raised bowls, or other aids may help dogs move more comfortably. |
| Orthopedic Surgery | $2,500 – $8,000+ | Procedures such as cruciate ligament repair, corrective surgery, femoral head and neck ostectomy, arthroscopy, or joint replacement may be considered in selected cases. |
| Pet Insurance Coverage | Varies | Coverage depends on the policy, deductible, reimbursement rate, and whether arthritis or the underlying orthopedic condition is considered pre-existing. |
| Typical Annual Range | Mild / Routine Management: $1,000 – $3,000 | Moderate to Advanced Management: $3,000 – $8,000+ | Surgical Treatment Year: $5,000 – $12,000+ | |
Arthritis care can add up quickly — from daily medications to possible surgeries. Pet insurance can ease the financial burden and ensure your dog gets the best treatment without compromise. If you want to compare plans and find out which providers offer the best coverage for arthritis and chronic conditions, check out our full guides to the Best Pet Insurance for Dogs and Best Pet Wellness Plans.
Related Health Conditions
Several orthopedic and neurologic conditions are closely linked to arthritis because they can damage joints, alter normal movement, increase joint instability, or cause similar signs such as stiffness, limping, pain, and difficulty walking. Understanding these related conditions can help dog owners recognize potential causes of mobility problems and better understand the diagnosis and treatment options their veterinarian may recommend.
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Luxating Patella
- Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
- Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis
- Septic Arthritis
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Joint Injuries & Fractures
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bottom Line
Arthritis in dogs is a common, chronic condition, but with proper management many dogs can continue to enjoy comfortable, active lives for years. Early recognition, healthy weight management, regular low-impact exercise, appropriate pain control, joint-supportive nutrition, and routine veterinary care can make a major difference in mobility and quality of life. By watching for changes such as stiffness, limping, difficulty rising, or reluctance to jump and addressing them early, you can help slow functional decline and keep your dog as comfortable and independent as possible throughout every stage of arthritis.
