If your dog has started limping, moving more slowly, or struggling to get up after a nap, arthritis may be to blame. Learning how to care for dog arthritis at home can help your dog stay comfortable while supporting the treatment plan your veterinarian recommends.
My rescue Cockapoo, Henry, has started stretching more and taking longer to get moving. After talking with our veterinarian, we learned arthritis was beginning to affect him. Since then, I’ve focused on simple and affordable ways to help him feel better every day.
Fortunately, caring for a dog with arthritis doesn’t always require expensive treatments. Small changes around your home, healthy habits, and a few veterinarian-approved supplements can make a noticeable difference.
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Budget tip: Some of the best ways to help an arthritic dog cost very little. A comfortable bed, daily walks, fish oil, maintaining a healthy weight, regular nail trims, and even a gentle massage can improve your dog's comfort while helping prevent more expensive problems later.
NOTE: Surprisingly, dog arthritis, while generally most prevalent in an older dog, can appear in a younger dog as well. However, this is more often breed-related and often focused on degenerative joint disease. Either way, always talk with your vet before trying alternative remedies for your dog’s care.
Key Takeaway For Dogs With Arthritis
🐾 Early home care can improve your dog's comfort and mobility.
🐾 Orothopedic beds can make a big difference
🐾 Elevated water and food bowls help
🐾 Rugs or yoga mats for traction can improve mobility
🐾 A healthy weight and regular exercise can ease pain
🐾 Keeping nails trimmed helps sore joints
🐾 Supplements, like fish oil and glucosamine, may help when recommended by your veterinarian.
🐾 Working with your veterinarian early can improve quality of life and potentially reduce future treatment costs.
Signs Your Dog May Have Arthritis
While signs of a dog with arthritis can vary, and other diseases and ailments can have similar signs, these are the ones you’ll definitely want to look for with your dog:
- Slowness in moving or a hesitancy to move
- Limping, which could be joint pain or even signs of hip dysplasia
- Licking or chewing, paws or legs, as a new behavior
- Change in behavior (not wanting to be touched or suddenly aggressive when touched)
- Muscles appear to be weak
- Overall easily tires
- Lots of extra stretching
As for Henry, he will stretch a lot when getting up and often be slow to move unless something catches his attention. I admit, sometimes I’ll tell Henry there’s a lizard just to get him in second gear. Although that trick actually moves him into full-go mode. Honestly, I wish I could gather that energy. Maybe Henry’s canine arthritis is a good type, if that’s possible.
When Should You See a Veterinarian?
Basically, if you suspect your dog has arthritis, then talk to your vet. I always like being proactive rather than reactive. Thus, getting ahead of anything is always best in my opinion. Although if your dog is a breed predisposed to arthritis symptoms, such as a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever, you’ll want to have a joint health plan with your vet.
How to Care for Dog Arthritis at Home
Interestingly, there are a few things you can do to help your dog at home with symptoms of arthritis. These include both making his/her environment most conducive and providing care that will help with the condition.
Specifically, environmental aids will consist of:
Provide a Supportive Bed
More specifically, an orthopedic dog bed is a great idea. This is a great orthopedic dog bed! Especially if your dog loves a pillow as much as Henry, and surprisingly, it’s affordable, too, for these types of beds. However, you can make a DIY one from a memory foam pillow, which can provide joint pain relief.
In short, lying on a hard surface will aggravate the pain of arthritis. I know my body would scream at me if I tried to lie or sit on a hard surface for any great amount of time. It’s the same as an arthritic dog.
Keep Jumping to a Minimum
You might ask how. When a dog is in pain, most of the time, they’ll cooperate. However, some will still have the need to be their “curious gunho self”. What do I mean?
For example, I will lift Henry up and down off the couch for snuggles. Although if you have a dog that likes to snuggle in bed or go up and down on the couch, then create sturdy stairs with crates firmly attached together. Or you can even buy stairs. But an even better idea is a ramp that will allow the joints not to be aggravated.
Do you know you can train your dog for free? In this article, I go over all the details.
An Elevated Feeding and Watering Station Can Help
Sometimes you can elevate bowls onto short tables, or you can purchase them. This is an affordable elevated bowl option that comes in different sizes.
Elevated bowls protect the joints from bending as much, especially if they hurt. Thus, your dog will want, in theory, to eat and drink normally.
Keep Your Dog Warm
A warm dog means warm joints. Usually, warm joints will be less painful for your dog. This could mean a dog sweater, blanket, or moving your pup’s dog bed to a sunny spot to be warmed naturally. Personally,
I have a dog bed for Henry by the heat register in the bedroom. He loves that spot when the temperature starts to drop. I can’t say I blame him.
Use Cold Therapy When Recommended
Joint inflammation can be controlled with a bit of ice. Apply ice to areas where your dog tends to lick, like a paw or leg should help.
For Henry, I’ll put a bag of ice in his bed so it hits his back. Admittedly, he likes it much better in the warmer months than in the colder months. Furry friends are smart!
Daily Habits That Help Dogs With Arthritis
There are a few additional actions you can take at home to help your dog with arthritis and chronic pain. They include:
1. Massage
A great option for dogs and animals generally suffering from arthritis is massage. Personally, I give Henry a basic massage almost every day. Interestingly, I had a horse, Macho, who had arthritis in his legs and back.
Every day, I massaged his legs and back with a tennis ball. It felt so good to him and helped him so much that he looked forward to it. On those days that I was unable to massage him for one reason or another, he had a very noticeable limp. Thus, massage can relieve more arthritis pain than you may think.
Moreover, when Henry’s massage is done, he always jumps up and bounces around. Well, that is after he wakes up.
Curious about how to massage your dog? In this article, I reveal how to do it.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Admittedly, overweight dogs have more issues with canine arthritis. The joints are more strained with extra weight. Thus, a healthy weight is important for any dog or animal when arthritis enters the picture. In other words, an overweight dog will most likely experience more issues with arthritis pain.
3. Keep Your Dog Moving
Of course, a dog with arthritis may not be able to go for a 10-mile hike, but keeping him/her active will keep the joints and muscles as healthy as possible. Never push your dog beyond their abilities. That can cause more issues. For example, Henry can easily do a few miles.
However, I wouldn’t push him to an extreme 10-mile up-and-down mountain hike. That would be a lot on his joints. Heck, it would be for me as well. But even with an easy 3-mile walk or hike, we may still take breaks and look at the scenery. That’s just fine with me. It’s all about the journey.
4. Keep Nails Trimmed
Dogs with long nails will have a tendency to have increased arthritic conditions. Thus, trimming your dog’s nails regularly will prevent any undue pain from overgrown nails and an unnatural gait. This is similar to the nail grinder I use. It has been a real game-changer for me in caring for Henry’s nails.
Update: Additonally items that can help with sore joints are yoga mats and traction socks or toe grips. Thank you to our friends at Minnesota Sheltie Rescue for these tips!
Natural Supplements That May Help Dogs With Arthritis
Again, always talk with your dog’s vet before giving your pup any joint supplements or other anti-inflammatory drugs, even if they’re natural. With that said, you can take different ideas to your vet and discuss them.
That’s generally what I will do with Henry’s vet. However, if I need to give Henry a prescription medication at the direction of his vet, I do it.
You will want to discuss home remedies with your vet.
Also keep in mind that many supplements have been researched while others have positive anecdotal evidence.
Fish Oil
My vet recommended fish oil for Henry. It has multiple benefits. One of them is joint health.
Want to learn more about how fish oil can help your dog? In this article, I go into lots of details.
Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM
Generally, these types of products can be very beneficial for dogs with arthritis. However, they can also come with some side effects, which may need to be balanced. For instance, they tend to make Henry more constipated. Thus, his vet has recommended staying with fish oil for now.
Green-Lipped Mussels (GLM)
This particular type of mussels has been shown to be safe while decreasing arthritic pain and increasing mobility. There is some anecdotal evidence that seems promising.
Hyaluronic acid (HA)
It’s thought that HA can increase joint lubrication, thus decreasing arthritic pain. That certainly sounds great! The problem again is that the research is lacking on it.
Turmeric
There has been some research that turmeric can help dogs with arthritis. Generally, it’s recommended to give a dog 1/8-1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds. However, your vet can determine the proper dosage if this is something that might be helpful for your dog.
In this article, I go into more detail about how turmeric can help dogs.
Boswellia Serrata
This is an Ayurvedic supplement from India and Africa. People have taken it and claimed it helps with osteoarthritis. Additionally, some holistic vets will recommend it for dog arthritis. However, currently, there’s only anecdotal evidence to support the benefits.
CBD supplements
When I see Henry in more pain, I’ll give him a CBD treat, and that does seem to help him. At least I notice him moving more easily. However, the scientific evidence on this is lacking.
Some dog parents will give CBD supplements as a calming aid. Although it can have the opposite effect. This was something I learned from Henry’s vet as we discussed alternative calming and pain supplements.
Vitamin C
Good old vitamin C is considered an antioxidant that helps with collagen and inflammation. Thus, it can aid with arthritis pain. But overdoing it can cause GI issues. Again, the evidence isn’t really strong for vitamin C.
Bromelain
This is an enzyme derived from pineapples. Bromelain has been shown to provide anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s best to give it 1-2 hours before meals. Also, it’s supposed to be more effective if given with Quercetin, which is a flavonoid. Yet, once again, the research evidence isn’t really strong for this enzyme as a dog arthritic remedy.
Cinnamon
Interestingly, cinnamon seems to provide some anti-inflammatory properties as well as protect joints. But again, there’s just not a lot of research to support it at this time.
Hawthorne
This is an herb that can help with inflammation caused by arthritis in dogs. Again, it doesn’t have much evidence to support it at this point.
If your dog’s arthritis continues to worsen despite home care, your veterinarian may recommend working with specialists who can improve mobility, reduce pain, and help your dog stay active longer.
Veterinary Therapies That May Help
Generally, you’ll want to see your main vet. Although you may get a referral for physical therapy or other speciality vet. But it’s best to start with your regular vet.
Additionally, there are holistic vets who will use alternative methods for treating and healing the body, mind, and spirit. A few of these types of holistic vet practitioners include:
Animal acupuncturist
While I’ve never used an acupuncturist for Henry, I did for my horse, Macho. He had a much more severe form of arthritis. Consequently, the session seemed to help him with pain and mobility.
Pet chiropractor
Again, I haven’t used a dog chiropractor for Henry. However, I did for Macho, and it was very successful. He moved a lot more easily without pain.
Animal massage therapist
While I’ve learned how to massage Henry myself, I learned it from Macho’s massage therapist. Honestly, Macho only had one professional massage therapy session. This was simply because she was so wonderful and taught me how to massage him daily. I’ve since translated much of that to Henry.
Curious about how to massage your dog? In this article, I share how to do it.
Dog hydrotherapy
If your dog loves the water, then this may be a great option. Hydrotherapy allows your dog to exercise gently on a treadmill underwater. Thus, the joints are protected, and your dog gets good exercise. It’s truly a wonderful option if your dog is up to it.
Laser therapy
This is a newer form of therapy for treating dog arthritis, but it does seem to help a lot of dogs. Although this can be a bit pricey.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Arthritis Treatment?
Generally, yes. Even alternative holistic vet care is generally covered by your dog’s pet insurance. However, always check your dog’s policy. Either way, don’t skimp if your dog is in pain. In other words, if your vet thinks hydrotherapy would help, then take your dog, since it should be covered by insurance. If it’s not completely covered, then use part of your emergency fund or pet savings account.
Additionally, you may even be able to use CareCredit for alternative pet care.
How Early Arthritis Care Can Save Money
The goal is to always keep your dog pain-free as much as possible and to avoid surgery. Thus, if you can do that with a home remedy plan you create with your vet, then that’s a great savings! However, if you ignore the early signs and let your dog progress into the disease without aiding him/her, your expenses may be more than you expect. Consider the following for a moment:
| Issue | Estimated Cost |
| Surgery | $3000-6000 |
| Prescriptions medications | $30-400 |
| Maintaining mobility | $0 |
| Preventing obesity | $0 |
| Preventing muscle loss | $0 |
| Avoiding emergency injuries | $300 + |
| Possibly delaying expensive treatments | $400+ |
| A healthy and comfortable pup | PRICELESS!!! |
There are even hidden costs you can avoid easily with any dog. No matter your dog’s health, creating an emergency fund is always a good idea. If your dog needs prescription medication, there are ways to find vet-approved drugs for less.
Related articles:
- Quick Simple Dog Massage Therapy at Home
- How Can Fish Oil Cut Dog Costs?
- Is Turmeric For Dogs A Waste Of Money?
- Dog Chiropractors – Pros and Cons
- Is Overfeeding A Dog Harmful?
- Can Healthy Dog Paws Improve Your Bottomline?
- Are There Really Safe Cheap Dog Meds?
- Hidden Dog Expenses: Why Good Dog Parents Spend More Than They Expect
FAQs About Care For Dog Arthritis
Can dog arthritis be treated naturally?
Yes. Simple things like an orthopedic bed, ramp, and elevated bowls can help. Also, fish oil or CBD supplements can reduce pain. But always check with your vet before adding anything to your dog’s diet.
Can walking make arthritis worse?
Most of the time, walking is viewed as a healthy activity for dogs with arthritis. But if your dog is getting worse with a short walk, talk with your vet about other care options.
Is arthritis painful for dogs?
Yes. It’s basically the same kind of pain that humans feel with arthritis. It can stop you or make you move a bit differently to help reduce the pain.
Can younger dogs develop arthritis?
Yes. When arthritis appears in younger dogs, it’s generally due to breed or degenerative joint disease.
What is the best home remedy for dog arthritis?
It kind of depends on your dog and your home. A comfy bed helps, as does elevating bowls, and avoiding jumping onto beds or couches.
Pups wiggle for easy home care for dog arthritis
While it can be a bit heartbreaking to see your dog limping, there are ways to alleviate the pain for your pup. When you consult your vet, you’ll learn that many measures don’t cost a penny. Such as a daily walk, a softer place to rest, cared-for nails, and even a massage. Shockingly, the cost of a pet massage therapist was very cost-effective. I got to learn how to do the basics and then carried on from that point. It was worth it! I would do it again.
Arthritis doesn’t have to stop your dog from enjoying life. By working with your veterinarian and making a few simple changes at home, you can help reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and keep your best friend happy for years to come. Starting early often leads to better long-term results and may even help you avoid larger veterinary expenses down the road.
