Key Takeaways

• Arthritis affects ~20% of dogs over one year old and up to 80% of senior dogs. It is a progressive but manageable condition.
• Early recognition of subtle signs such as stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, or changes in behavior leads to better outcomes.
• A multi-modal treatment approach — combining medication, weight management, controlled exercise, supplements, and rehabilitation — provides optimal pain relief.
• Prevention strategies such as maintaining lean body weight, ensuring appropriate exercise, and feeding joint-supportive nutrition significantly reduce risk.

Understanding Canine Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive joint disease characterized by:

• Cartilage degeneration
• Thickening of subchondral bone
• Osteophyte (bone spur) formation
• Synovial inflammation

These changes disrupt smooth, pain-free motion. Importantly, OA is not just “wear and tear” but an active disease process driven by inflammation and metabolic changes in the joint.

In Hong Kong, lifestyle factors such as apartment living, frequent stair climbing, and walking primarily on hard concrete surfaces may increase stress on joints and contribute to arthritis development.

Recognizing the Subtle Early Signs

Physical Indicators

• Morning stiffness that improves with movement
• Hesitation before jumping onto furniture or into vehicles
• Shortened stride length or altered gait
• Reluctance to climb stairs or walk on inclines
• Swollen or warm joints upon gentle palpation

Behavioural Changes

• Decreased enthusiasm for walks or play
• Seeking softer resting surfaces
• Sleeping more or withdrawing from family activities
• Irritability when touched in sore areas
• Changes in grooming or posture

❗ Many owners assume these are “normal aging” changes, but early intervention significantly improves long-term comfort and mobility. Tools like the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) questionnaire can help track subtle early signs.

Causes and Risk Factors

Genetic Predisposition

Certain breeds carry higher arthritis risk due to their skeletal structure:

• Large breeds: German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers
• Giant breeds: Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs
• Specific conditions: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, luxating patella

Rapid growth during puppyhood and early neutering in large breeds may further increase susceptibility.

Environmental Factors

• Obesity: Even 10% excess body weight markedly increases joint stress.
• Previous injuries: Fractures, ligament tears, or surgery can predispose to OA.
• Exercise patterns: Both excessive high-impact activity and complete inactivity pose risks.
• Nutritional imbalance in growth phase: Overfeeding or imbalanced diets accelerate abnormal skeletal development.
• Urban environment: Repetitive stair climbing, slippery tile floors, and hot, humid weather in Hong Kong can worsen symptoms.

Nutrition: Nourishing the Joints

A complete and balanced diet supports healthy weight and joint metabolism. Evidence-based joint-supportive nutrients include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) – strong anti-inflammatory effect
• Glucosamine and chondroitin – support cartilage repair
• Green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) – natural glycosaminoglycan source
• Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) – may modulate immune response
• Avocado soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) – synergistic with glucosamine/chondroitin

A balanced, fresh diet is fundamental to managing arthritis. Our nutritionist-crafted recipes help maintain a healthy weight and are packed with natural, anti-inflammatory ingredients to support your dog's mobility and comfort.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach

Veterinarians use a structured process to diagnose OA:

• History: Review of activity changes, stiffness, or pain. Home videos of movement can be very helpful.
• Physical exam: Gait analysis, joint range of motion, pain assessment, muscle mass evaluation.
• Imaging:
  • Radiographs (X-rays) show bone remodeling and osteophytes, but changes may not always match pain severity.
  • Advanced imaging (CT, MRI) may be used in referral centers for complex cases.
• Other diagnostics: Joint fluid analysis to rule out infection or immune-mediated arthritis. Arthroscopy is the gold standard but less commonly used in general practice.

Multi-Modal Treatment Strategies

Medications:

• First-line: NSAIDs (carprofen, meloxicam, grapiprant) — cornerstone of therapy.
• Disease-modifying: Polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (Adequan®).
• Monoclonal antibodies: Librela™ (anti-nerve growth factor) — monthly injection for sustained relief.
• Adjuncts: Gabapentin or tramadol may help in select cases, though evidence is mixed.

Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine

• Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill, swimming) — maintains muscle without joint stress.
• Therapeutic exercises — improve strength and range of motion.
• Massage and manual therapy — reduce compensatory tension.
• Acupuncture and laser therapy — promising adjuncts; evidence still variable.

Regenerative Medicine

• Stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are emerging options, though availability and cost may limit use.

Creating an Arthritis-Friendly Environment

Practical modifications make a big difference:

• Orthopedic bedding (memory foam)
• Non-slip rugs or paw grips on slippery tile floors
• Ramps or steps to reduce jumping
• Elevated feeding bowls to ease neck/back strain
• Temperature control: Hong Kong’s humid summers may worsen inflammation; air-conditioning or dehumidifiers can help

Exercise Tips

• Replace one long walk with several shorter outings
• Encourage swimming when safe and available
• Keep leash walks controlled and avoid sudden movements
• Provide mental stimulation (puzzle feeders, sniffing games) to reduce frustration

Prevention: Building Joint Health Early

• Maintain lean body weight from puppyhood onwards
• Provide balanced nutrition during growth — avoid overfeeding large-breed puppies
• Ensure regular, low-impact exercise
• Screen breeding dogs for hip and elbow dysplasia to reduce inherited risk
• Schedule regular wellness checks to identify OA early in middle-aged dogs

Monitoring and Long-term Management

OA management is lifelong. Owners should:

• Track quality of life with tools such as the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) or LOAD
• Watch for warning signs: reduced mobility, appetite changes, increased irritability
• Schedule veterinary rechecks every 3–6 months (especially for dogs on long-term NSAIDs, as bloodwork monitoring is essential)
• Adjust treatment plans as the disease progresses

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

An arthritis diagnosis can feel daunting, but with modern treatments and lifestyle adjustments, countless dogs live happy, active lives. The key is early recognition, consistent management, and adapting care over time.

Every small step you take — from providing better flooring to offering a supplement — helps strengthen the bond with your dog and ensures more quality time together.

Summary Table: Key Points on Canine Arthritis

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Johnston SA. Osteoarthritis: Joint anatomy, physiology, and pathobiology. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 1997;27(4):699-723.
2. Innes JF, et al. Clinical trial evidence for nutraceuticals in canine osteoarthritis. Vet Rec. 2010;166(14):407-411.
3. Rialland P, et al. Validation of the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) questionnaire. Vet J. 2012;193(1):171-177.
4. Benito J, et al. Reliability and discriminatory testing of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory. Vet Anaesth Analg. 2008;35(5): 433-443.
5. eClinPath: Canine Osteoarthritis -- Accessed September 2025.