Managing Osteoarthritis in Dogs
Osteoarthritis in dogs is a common cause of chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is a progressive, degenerative joint condition that affects cartilage, joint fluid, surrounding soft tissues, and bone.
While osteoarthritis cannot be cured, effective long-term management can significantly improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Most dogs benefit from a multimodal approach combining prescription pain relief, supportive joint supplements, and lifestyle adjustments.
What Is Osteoarthritis in Dogs?
Canine osteoarthritis develops when the smooth cartilage lining a joint gradually breaks down. As cartilage wears away, joints become inflamed and painful, leading to stiffness, lameness, and reduced range of motion.
Osteoarthritis may be associated with ageing, hip or elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament disease, previous orthopaedic surgery, or long-term excess body weight.
Daily NSAIDs for Osteoarthritis in Dogs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for canine osteoarthritis. They reduce inflammation within the joint and provide effective pain relief.
Veterinary NSAIDs are available as once-daily tablets or liquids and are specifically formulated for dogs. Long-term use should always be monitored by a vet.
View NSAID Pain Relief for DogsOnce-Weekly NSAIDs (Daxocox)
Some dogs find daily medication difficult. In these cases, a long-acting once-weekly NSAID such as Daxocox may be appropriate. It provides consistent pain control with reduced dosing frequency.
Once-weekly NSAIDs are particularly useful for dogs that resist daily tablets or for owners who struggle with daily administration.
Daxocox Once-Weekly NSAID
Monthly Injectable Osteoarthritis Treatment (Librela)
Librela is a monthly injectable treatment for canine osteoarthritis that works by targeting nerve growth factor (NGF), a key driver of chronic pain.
Librela does not rely on traditional anti-inflammatory pathways and may be suitable for dogs that cannot tolerate NSAIDs, or as part of a combined treatment approach.
Joint Supplements for Dogs with Osteoarthritis
Joint supplements are commonly used alongside prescription medication to support long-term joint health. They’re not fast-acting pain relief, but when used consistently over weeks they may help support joint comfort, lubrication, and mobility.
Commonly Used Joint Supplements
YuMOVE Advance 360 Max Strength is a comprehensive support formula combining glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, and antioxidants to help maintain normal joint function in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Other supplements support arthritic joints in different ways. Products containing oral hyaluronic acid are designed to support synovial fluid function and lubrication, while those containing undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) aim to support immune-mediated joint tolerance and comfort.
Weight Management and Exercise
Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most effective ways to slow osteoarthritis progression. Excess weight places additional stress on already painful joints.
Exercise should be regular, controlled, and low impact. Lead walks, swimming, and physiotherapy exercises are often beneficial, while high-impact activity should be avoided.
Environmental Support for Arthritic Dogs
Simple environmental changes can significantly improve comfort. Orthopaedic bedding, non-slip flooring, ramps instead of stairs, and easy access to food and water all help reduce strain on painful joints.
Long-Term Management and Monitoring
Osteoarthritis is a lifelong condition that typically progresses over time. Regular veterinary reviews allow treatment plans to be adjusted to maintain comfort and quality of life.
The most successful outcomes are achieved using a multimodal approach combining medication, joint support, weight management, and lifestyle adaptation.