Degenerative joint disease (DJD), also known as osteoarthritis, is the most common chronic pain condition in dogs, affecting an estimated 20% of adult dogs and requiring multimodal management to preserve quality of life.
DJD is chronically underdiagnosed in dogs because owners often attribute reduced activity to normal ageing. In reality, many dogs living with uncontrolled DJD pain are suffering daily. Regular veterinary assessment using validated pain scales such as the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) and the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index enables objective monitoring of treatment effectiveness. Multimodal analgesia combining NSAIDs, weight management, environmental modification, and physical therapy is superior to any single approach. Environmental adjustments — ramps, non-slip flooring, raised food bowls — can significantly reduce daily pain burden.