Arthritis & Joint Disease
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common — and most under-treated — conditions in older dogs.
What is Arthritis & Joint Disease?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive, irreversible degeneration of joint cartilage that affects an estimated 20% of adult dogs and the majority of dogs over 8. Dogs are experts at hiding pain, so many owners underestimate how much OA affects their pet. The good news: multimodal management can dramatically improve comfort and mobility.
Common signs and symptoms
Signs vary between dogs and can be subtle at first. Watch for the following, especially if several appear together or persist for more than a few days:
- Slower to rise, especially after rest
- Reluctance to jump, use stairs, or get in the car
- Stiffness that improves with gentle warm-up
- Bunny-hopping or shortened stride
- Muscle wasting over the affected limb
- Changes in behaviour: irritability, less play, quieter mood
Risk factors
Certain dogs are more predisposed. Understanding risk helps you screen earlier and act sooner.
- Age 7+
- Large and giant breeds
- Overweight body condition (single biggest modifiable factor)
- Prior joint injury or dysplasia
- Repetitive high-impact activity without conditioning
When to see a vet
Use this as general triage guidance, not a substitute for veterinary advice.
- Book a routine appointment if: your dog seems 'just older' — reduced play, slower on walks, or stiff after resting. Arthritis is very treatable when addressed early.
- Seek urgent care if: sudden non-weight-bearing lameness, obvious severe pain, or joint swelling with heat.
Diagnosis and management
The most effective plan combines: (1) weight optimisation — often the single biggest win, (2) controlled, consistent low-impact exercise (leash walks, swimming), (3) NSAIDs or newer anti-NGF therapy (Librela) when indicated, (4) joint diets and omega-3 supplementation, (5) physical rehabilitation, and (6) home modifications like ramps and rugs. Multi-modal beats any single therapy.