Arthritis is one of the most common and underrecognized sources of chronic pain in dogs. Early recognition and multimodal pain management significantly improve quality of life for affected dogs.
Canine arthritis represents a massive and largely underaddressed welfare burden in companion animal populations. The majority of geriatric dogs have radiographic evidence of joint disease, but most go untreated because behavioral pain signs are subtle and owners attribute reduced activity to normal aging. A dog that struggles to rise, shows reluctance to climb stairs, or has reduced playfulness may be experiencing significant daily pain without any obvious lameness. Veterinary pain assessment using validated tools like the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index or Canine Brief Pain Inventory allows systematic evaluation. Treatment is highly effective when implemented comprehensively: weight management alone provides substantial pain relief through reduced joint loading. Combined with pain medication, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and environmental adaptation, most arthritic dogs can maintain excellent quality of life. New monoclonal antibody treatments blocking nerve growth factor provide additional pain management without the gastrointestinal risks of chronic NSAID use.