Companion Animals

Dog Arthritis Early Detection and Treatment

Arthritis affects the majority of older dogs but is frequently missed until advanced, causing unnecessary chronic pain that early detection and treatment could prevent.

Key Facts

Osteoarthritis affects over 80% of dogs over 8 years according to some studies
Dogs rarely show obvious pain from arthritis, adapting their gait and activities instead
Veterinary pain scales including the CBPI and Liverpool OA Scale aid diagnosis
NSAIDs, Solensia (frunevetmab), and physiotherapy form the multi-modal treatment approach
Lifestyle modification including weight management dramatically reduces progression

Welfare Considerations

Arthritis is one of the most common and welfare-significant conditions in older dogs, yet it is chronically under-diagnosed and under-treated. Dogs adapt to pain without complaint, normalising the behaviour changes that signal suffering. Early detection and treatment can provide pain-free additional years of quality life.

What You Can Do

Watch for subtle behaviour changes in older dogs - reduced activity, stiffness, reluctance to stairs
Discuss arthritis screening at every annual check for dogs over 7 years
Ask your vet about Solensia (frunevetmab) as a newer targeted treatment option