Does your dog have arthritis, or do you suspect that they might? Do you know what to expect in terms of treatment for arthritis in dogs? You may wonder if there's anything you can do to help your dog deal with this chronic condition.

Arthritis is very common in dogs, especially as they get older. If your dog is older and is having some mobility issues, chances are good they're dealing with arthritis as well. Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many treatment options you can try with the help of your vet to ease your dog’s joint pain.

Pain and stiffness are just two signs of arthritis in dogs. Read on to learn the symptoms of canine arthritis. VEG is open 24/7 for your dog's emergency symptoms.

Symptoms of arthritis in dogs

Listed below are the main signs and symptoms of dog arthritis:

Arthritic dogs can experience stiffness

Stiffness is one of the earliest and most common signs of arthritis in dogs. Many pet owners believe their dogs are just slowing down due to advanced age; however, much of the time, the real problem is arthritis.

If your dog seems to be stiff when they move, especially after a long nap or waking. up in the morning, they may be dealing with the early stages of canine arthritis.

Pain can accompany arthritis in dogs

Pain is another common and early sign of arthritis in dogs. Dogs may show pain differently and may sometimes try to hide their pain entirely, so it may take a while for you to notice this problem. However, if you try to pet your dog and they become defensive of their legs or joints, this is a sign of arthritis. Pay extra attention to signs of pain during the winter months, as cold temperatures can worsen arthritis.

Arthritis can lead to hiding or aggression

In response to pain, some dogs may hide often so their human family members do not see their pain symptoms. On the other hand, dogs may sometimes become more aggressive than usual due to their pain. Either of these sudden changes in your pet should warrant a trip to the vet.

If your dog is hiding or showing signs of lethargy, it could be arthritis. Read on to learn more about canine arthritis and learn when to see the vet.

Dogs with arthritis may be unable to climb stairs

Many dogs with mild arthritis retain much of their mobility, but are unable to climb stairs successfully. If you notice your dog is specifically struggling to get up and down stairs like they used to, then there is a good chance arthritis is the issue.

An arthritic dog may be unwilling to play

An unwillingness to play or stay active typically means your dog is not feeling well when they try to do so. Lethargy, as a symptom on its own, may indicate a variety of health problems. So you should take your pet to the vet if you notice this issue lasting for more than a couple of days.

Loss of appetite is a symptom of arthritis in dogs

Like an unwillingness to play, a loss of appetite may signify many health issues in dogs. There are a few actions you can take if your pet is refusing meals, but be sure to get to the emergency vet if she experiences a loss of appetite that lasts longer than a day or two. Combined with other items on this list, a loss of appetite may signify arthritis pain.

Treatment for dogs with arthritis

If your dog has arthritis, the main treatment methods are listed below:

Supportive bedding can help dogs with arthritis

You can try providing your dog with supportive, orthopedic bedding designed specifically for dogs with arthritis. Consider also choosing a passive heating mat for your dog, which can recirculate their body heat to keep their joints warm and comfortable.

Providing a supportive dog bed can help your dog's arthritis pain. Contact VEG ER for Pets if you have questions about how to manage your dog's arthritis symptoms.

Physical therapy can benefit a dog with arthritis

Physical therapy may be a good solution for your dog, depending on your primary care vet’s recommendations. Physical therapy and medical massages are both available at many vet offices and vet specialty clinics.

Gentle exercise may help a dog with arthritis

Although your dog may have trouble moving around like they used to, and it may not be wise to encourage them to be as active as they were in the past, gentle exercise may help. Take your dog on short or leisurely walks on mostly flat surfaces, and toss a ball gently around for her to chase in the backyard or dog park.

Medication for arthritic dogs

Your vet may recommend pain management medication for your dog. Some dogs respond well to pain medication for their arthritis, while others do not. It is up to you and your vet to determine whether or not pain medication is a good solution for your dog.

Acupuncture may help ease arthritis symptoms in dogs

Acupuncture is not for everyone, nor is it for every dog. However, this alternative medicine solution has been known to help relieve some of the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis in dogs. If your vet offers acupuncture or can recommend a good location for this type of treatment, it may be worth a try for your dog.

Contact VEG pet hospital for emergency vet care for your dog

Now that you understand the symptoms of arthritis in dogs better, you can also recognize the different types of treatment available for your pet. Always discuss potential arthritis treatment options with your primary care vet before making any major changes to your pet’s health or wellness routine.

Contact VEG ER for Pets if you have questions about managing your dog's arthritis symptoms. VEG is open 24/7 for all pet urgent care and emergency needs.