One in five adult dogs has arthritis. By age eight, that number jumps to 80%. But arthritis isn’t a life sentence of pain — it’s a manageable condition.
Recognizing It Early
Dogs don’t limp until arthritis is advanced. Earlier signs include reluctance to jump on furniture, stiffness after resting, irritability when touched in certain areas, and reduced interest in walks. The earlier you intervene, the better the outcome.
Treatment Options
Weight management is the most effective intervention — every pound lost reduces joint stress significantly. Joint supplements (glucosamine and chondroitin), prescription anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, and in severe cases, Adequan injections. Most dogs respond well to a multi-modal approach combining several treatments.