{"id":1876,"date":"2023-06-08T13:19:00","date_gmt":"2023-06-08T12:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/?p=1876"},"modified":"2025-06-16T17:20:10","modified_gmt":"2025-06-16T16:20:10","slug":"arthritis-in-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/arthritis-in-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"Arthritis in Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Arthritis in dogs is a term used to describe the inflammation of the tissues in the joints. It can occur in any of the joints in your dog\u2019s body, and is fairly common especially in older dogs.  Dog hip joints take quite a pounding over the years. It\u2019s one of the body\u2019s major muscles for movement. Arthritis in dogs occurs when the smooth cartilage within a joint becomes rougher, causing the bones to rub together. This can happen for a number of reasons, and although there are no cures there are treatments to reduce the symptoms. Anti inflammatory NSAIDS are the go to pain relief for most veterinarians, but supplements containing nutraceuticals, such as glucosamine and chondroitin can also be beneficial. Canine arthritis can also be helped a lot with small adjustments in lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#causes\">Causes of canine arthritis?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#symptoms\">Arthritis symptoms in dogs.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#preventing\">Dog arthritis prevention.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#medicine\">Medication for canine arthritis.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#care\">How to care for an arthritic dog.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>*The products linked in this article were carefully selected by me to be shared on The Labrador Site. If you decide to purchase using the links provided, you&#8217;ll be supporting our site by allowing us to earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever stage of the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment pathway your dog is on, we&#8217;re ready to support you to give them them best possible care. Canine expert Pippa Mattinson explains what causes it, and how to reduce the risk of it becoming a problem for your pet. There&#8217;s also a list of symptoms to look out for, and a guide to how veterinarians diagnose and treat dogs who do become arthritic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Swimming Labrador\" width=\"720\" height=\"405\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8ZXT1wkhQbY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"symptoms\">Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As your dog ages, it pays to be aware of the possible symptoms of arthritis. By doing so, you can give him the best possible care. This means taking him to the vet during the early stages, rather than waiting for him to become more uncomfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following can be signs of canine arthritis:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Limping<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Favoring other limbs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty moving<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stiffness of movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swollen joint<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hunched back<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased sleep<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reluctance to be petted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reluctance to jump or climb stairs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty standing up or laying down<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, if you see any of the above in your dog then pay a visit to the vet. Some symptoms shown can be signs of other issues, especially is displayed in younger dogs. It is better safe than sorry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your vet will be able to let you know whether your dog is suffering from canine arthritis by examining him and taking x-rays. If you suspect your older dog is developing arthritis do have him checked over by the vet. Of course, there are other diseases and injuries that can cause lameness, stiffness and pain. It may be that your dog simply has a minor injury that needs a little rest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the veterinarian suspects there may be another cause behind the arthritis, they may also take a sample of joint fluid or carry out blood tests to rule these out as well. These blood tests are worth getting done in any case. They can provide valuable information to<br>the vet about which course of medication would best suit your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"causes\">Causes Of Arthritis In Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Arthritis in dogs is caused as joints age, because they are subject to a certain amount of wear and tear. This wear and tear in the joint is the most common cause of the pain and inflammation that we call arthritis. It can however be caused by other things in younger dogs, such as trauma from injury or problems with your dog&#8217;s immune system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whilst a certain amount of wear and tear always takes place, severe arthritis is not inevitable. The good news is there are steps you can take to help prevent arthritis in dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"preventing\">Preventing Dog Arthritis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whilst old age is inevitable, there are some ways that you can prevent or delay the onset of arthritis in dogs. One of these ways is through weight control. Simply put, the more weight on a dog\u2019s joints, the more difficult and stressful his arthritis is likely to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Body weight is a massive factor in arthritis. Slim Labradors are less likely to get arthritis than fat ones. This is something you can actively help with. Obesity in Labradors is a growing problem. And it\u2019s one that we as owners have complete control over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practicing Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It may be difficult, but ignoring those begging, puppy dog eyes from time to time might be a good idea. By not giving in to their adorable stares, you could be seriously improving your Lab\u2019s quality of life. Your dog may well be hungry, but that does not necessarily mean he needs to eat. Try and distract him with some activity. Also, try to ignore the fact that he is following you around with his dinner bowl in his mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He\u2019ll thank you for it later when he is still zipping about at fourteen years old, instead of crying in pain when he gets up in the morning. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"1260\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Arthritis-in-Labradors-LS-tall.jpg\" alt=\"arthritis in dogs\" class=\"wp-image-24525\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Arthritis-in-Labradors-LS-tall.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Arthritis-in-Labradors-LS-tall-143x300.jpg 143w, https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Arthritis-in-Labradors-LS-tall-488x1024.jpg 488w, https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/Arthritis-in-Labradors-LS-tall-200x420.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Arthritis In Dogs With Hip Dysplasia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Labradors are one of the breeds who are unfortunately quite likely to suffer from hip dysplasia. You can reduce the chances of your puppy suffering from this disease by only buying a dog from parents with low hip scores. This does not entirely remove the risk however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arthritis in dogs is much more like with conditions like hip dysplasia, where there is an existing deformity of the hip joint. It is therefore even more important that you care for him to help reduce the chance of it developing. One way to do this is by keeping his weight down and making sure your dog gets the right amount of exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your Labrador has hip dysplasia do consult your vet on the best way of caring for his hips, before your dog gets old and creaky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dog Foot Care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to help your dog\u2019s joints stay healthy is to keep his feet in a good condition. Clipping his toenails so that they don\u2019t distort his normal walking and running gait will help to maintain his joint health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"medicine\">Arthritis Medicine For Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>NSAIDS are drugs used to treat the inflammation and pain of arthritis in people and animals. But it is really important that you do not give your dog NSAIDS intended for people. Ibuprofen for example is a popular NSAID for treatment of humans and is toxic to dogs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arthritis medicine for dogs is specially formulated to relieve their pain without causing them further problems. Your vet will be able to prescribe effective painkillers to keep your old friend happy and active for as long as possible. They may also suggest nutraceuticals, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Zesty-Paws-Glucosamine-Chondroitin-dogs\/dp\/B07RM62JYB?crid=2MTXOVMATUW1G&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.A9YCMW7ik0hGsqlWXL6B4qUpUvlAXUmmOgKU6-foYKkND7t2ny6Yu22rCTuAPdFhYbsO4W9Lcut3sum7IgDO5VziIAk_xmIm3xKE3aFoWqJbfWELn9hO743aJyoIQYalPUf0VVKXDoOSDB54yCjbre-k2dvr9K1PCYN7NeDSD3WaK5Ul5NH4uT2P_8OfE-emp6IOS8xIBm_O3-uKDqTvOxIEJpMTGIIQJ0TDJbwFBIwbDDWsdSIoXzFoGAPP4y7U4ccT6cRHXlXEecDvQnQoZq_AkMvtEoiuByKJNaN5844.fBTYYjCY6pS8qn0QiZnwylX5OC9Sw986nhqB9DDdM-c&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=dog%2Barthritis%2Bsupplement%2Bfor%2Bsenior%2Bdogs&amp;qid=1720190609&amp;sprefix=dog%2Barthritis%2Bsup%2Caps%2C218&amp;sr=8-2&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=4bd3087d9416b2e8a578b90c0eabf3b2&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">such as glucosamine and chondroitin<\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>*, in the hopes that they will improve cartilage repair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Glucosamine For Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Glucosamine is an amino sugar that was thought to promote the repair of joint cartilage. Some studies in people have produced conflicting results. However, the consensus in the veterinary literature is that glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate together will help reduce pain and swelling. They may also help repair damaged cartilage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Zesty-Paws-Glucosamine-Chondroitin-dogs\/dp\/B07RM62JYB?crid=2MTXOVMATUW1G&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.A9YCMW7ik0hGsqlWXL6B4qUpUvlAXUmmOgKU6-foYKkND7t2ny6Yu22rCTuAPdFhYbsO4W9Lcut3sum7IgDO5VziIAk_xmIm3xKE3aFoWqJbfWELn9hO743aJyoIQYalPUf0VVKXDoOSDB54yCjbre-k2dvr9K1PCYN7NeDSD3WaK5Ul5NH4uT2P_8OfE-emp6IOS8xIBm_O3-uKDqTvOxIEJpMTGIIQJ0TDJbwFBIwbDDWsdSIoXzFoGAPP4y7U4ccT6cRHXlXEecDvQnQoZq_AkMvtEoiuByKJNaN5844.fBTYYjCY6pS8qn0QiZnwylX5OC9Sw986nhqB9DDdM-c&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=dog%2Barthritis%2Bsupplement%2Bfor%2Bsenior%2Bdogs&amp;qid=1720190609&amp;sprefix=dog%2Barthritis%2Bsup%2Caps%2C218&amp;sr=8-2&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=4bd3087d9416b2e8a578b90c0eabf3b2&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">order dog glucosamine online<\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>* and buy it in pet shops. (But make sure that you don\u2019t use the human variety). Before you do, it\u2019s important to ask vet whether this would be suitable for your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Can I Give My Dog For Pain?<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"470\" height=\"376\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/train-down.jpg\" alt=\"arthritis in dogs\" class=\"wp-image-2002\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/train-down.jpg 470w, https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/07\/train-down-300x240.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>When your dog is in pain or discomfort, it is perfectly natural to want to do everything in your power to help them. The best arthritis medicine for dogs is that which is prescribed by their own veterinarian. They will know what to give them to best reduce their pain and discomfort. Similarly, after some time you may feel as though your dog needs more medicine than what he\u2019s been prescribed. Do not change the dose without consulting your vet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try to avoid untested remedies found online. These might cause your dog more problems than they will solve. It\u2019s frustrating to see your dog suffering, not least when you can\u2019t further medicate him. <a name=\"care\"><\/a>Fortunately, there are some things you can do at home to help him get more comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dog Arthritis Treatment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, then your veterinarian will prescribe you appropriate medication to help them manage the pain. It might be worth consulting with your vet about canine physiotherapy. Doggie physio can be a great way to relieve some of the pain from aching joints and muscles. As well as that, you can do plenty of things to help them live a more comfortable life with you at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"care\">Orthopedic Dog Bed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are some really great <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/EHEYCIGA-Waterproof-Orthopedic-Egg-Crate-Removable\/dp\/B0BDLGZCTY?crid=30W0R1LBTVDCD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0V4VN9vJDq0vandJtDL95cV4ZFit_fZvO99rlLCetkMn2cPNEayAwRSU27AKtCj7dQg6VfJ6g3Sv3QwBGGgfFWehvGylybuyrTHmoIqd_p_UKJHc5UoTlFdQZa1S4UEaJKvR2S9BqDW6KPJ_HnXxNmeqBqkb-z-O7qssCO71ElRSU1jGKMK-H8bF6K2qAbHPv_kv01AM3oS8AJ4n3LZYZjWFO2_LWfIlxTI3sxuqRctIDHndz9P55z3kw0aDRDezixxtZpAjwp8Jkvdtl2NShq-vFEeA4BDLj9w6IbQR4yc.lS4Kk5LGRCdN94UdhBkW3jYQGqxt9ZvNgDnl9SXB02c&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=orthopedic%2Bdog%2Bbed&amp;qid=1720190677&amp;sprefix=orthopedic%2Bdog%2Bbe%2Caps%2C172&amp;sr=8-5&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=7d4c7d9c70962f4f3155517cef825d6d&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">orthopedic dog beds for sale<\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>*. Designed just for larger, older dogs who have joint problems. They usually have memory foam mattresses, and thick bases. To give your dog support and comfort whilst he rests. This <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/EHEYCIGA-Waterproof-Orthopedic-Egg-Crate-Removable\/dp\/B0BDLGZCTY?crid=30W0R1LBTVDCD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0V4VN9vJDq0vandJtDL95cV4ZFit_fZvO99rlLCetkMn2cPNEayAwRSU27AKtCj7dQg6VfJ6g3Sv3QwBGGgfFWehvGylybuyrTHmoIqd_p_UKJHc5UoTlFdQZa1S4UEaJKvR2S9BqDW6KPJ_HnXxNmeqBqkb-z-O7qssCO71ElRSU1jGKMK-H8bF6K2qAbHPv_kv01AM3oS8AJ4n3LZYZjWFO2_LWfIlxTI3sxuqRctIDHndz9P55z3kw0aDRDezixxtZpAjwp8Jkvdtl2NShq-vFEeA4BDLj9w6IbQR4yc.lS4Kk5LGRCdN94UdhBkW3jYQGqxt9ZvNgDnl9SXB02c&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=orthopedic%2Bdog%2Bbed&amp;qid=1720190677&amp;sprefix=orthopedic%2Bdog%2Bbe%2Caps%2C172&amp;sr=8-5&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=7d4c7d9c70962f4f3155517cef825d6d&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">therapeutic, deluxe dog bed is a great size<\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>* for even the biggest Labrador to stretch out and get comfortable on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Raised Dog Bowls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Gorilla-Grip-Adjustable-Stainless-Resistant\/dp\/B0C28VTHFJ?crid=13LKX3YPTEH7&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.y6H3ki51-qXxzJVPqW8DLhHaGLKX0hQ_43998cQuTWMkmxgEpoN_FlANHs1cN9LXHkBH9mtKF85M6-w8CIdtEjIZ8oxrpVET80DMUtZPbsxfRI0ncNQtDzENCc2MrwhjSrKn6iOhfShP6Nr_yLiH96EDxjqXzPSTtdiv4jhieUxSWYVxya4R4wGL2f8zHI1wHZDOAWMHWF5tJrDUdEV7Q8TwMC-Unu4R3OFGmGxGkT_XK2-umnnl7E9zzoe_a96gH3Q7nKurmBTR-POQAEAZvOzyj7JuRmmM_SA7N_3ecIE.0aATbxiU2sn9ZyJiaPOx1RZFQHTOzMwGiJhSDEz8Ydk&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=raised%2Bdog%2Bbowl&amp;qid=1720190731&amp;sprefix=raised%2Bdog%2Bbowl%2Caps%2C194&amp;sr=8-3&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=6aca945c872875fea697dd759af52b8a&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">Raised dog bowls* <\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>can make it easier for a Labrador with joint pain to enjoy his meal or drinks in comfort. They maintain the bowls at a height that can be reached without bending or stretching downwards, which puts pressure on their sore joints. Please remember that raised <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/dog-bowls\/\">dog bowls<\/a> are not however recommended for younger dogs or those who eat their meals very quickly, as they have been <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thelabradorsite.com\/bloat-in-dogs\/\">linked to cases of Bloat in dogs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may be unsure whether an elevated dog bowl would be an appropriate choice for your Labrador. If that is the case, then be sure to chat with your vet before you shop for one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dog Ramps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, if you live up a flight of steps or have a high vehicle you need your Labrador to get in and out of, then you might like to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Folding-Portable-Non-Slip-Surface-Medium\/dp\/B0CG2VNXWG?crid=MKQRK1LFC1XW&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AQDaDcfNVftoOoMvgsqyplpzG-yH33J7hXKVWlRFhGtQ1ow81n7VN663NgpcCHQtL8783KwwLDnwgA0pFbwOrMeeQDa2auo9IMazD2peCif1DoxlBlXaE37AQ1ou4TA8EfJul1WlPguwyJPH16l_4tKqRpdPMDhwMOvng1K7lOA7aM3mH8_woaar1hlP7m3hhFU62VPUUPwyBO8juVVbkOh5jFGEdfEgQoQj6SijZdux89t5II26TnmrHOwm7-UoiCjSTsj_mF4S_pXIsv326il7cUXqHCK5Nl_9ammw1MI.c0lTOq4jm0HEtAg8D2EoasBZCVmitJYhr00tmSbifHI&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=portable%2Bdog%2Bramp&amp;qid=1720190774&amp;sprefix=portable%2Bdog%2Bramp%2Caps%2C172&amp;sr=8-1&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=thelabsit-20&amp;linkId=f23fc0e6c14af784517b341ca6a9e88b&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\">consider a dog ramp<\/a><span class=\"affiliate-link-text\" style=\"color:#757575;\">(paid link)<\/span>*. Most Labs are not of a size or weight that can be easily hefted around by a human. So, when they are in discomfort using a ramp can be a very effective solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to worry about putting permanent structures around your home, or attaching unsightly features to your car. You can buy some great, convenient fold out ramps , which can be discreetly stored when not in use. Ideal for the Labrador who is having a tough time moving up and down, and could do with a helping hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exercising A Dog With Arthritis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your dog has arthritis they will find exercise harder work, but it is important that they stay active. Take shorter walks, with less uphill climbs, and give special attention to how your dog is acting. If he starts to limp more or slows down, then accommodate his pace. There\u2019s no need to put any extra pressure on an already stiff dog, just do as much as he\u2019s comfortable with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Swimming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best ways for an arthritic dog to exercise is by swimming. This study found that <a href=\"http:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.1155\/2014\/459809\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">swimming can improve the function of a dog\u2019s arthritic joint<\/a>. You might even find a local canine hydrotherapy pool that you can take him too for regular dips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Important to note, the same study made it clear that the best way to treat arthritis in dogs is with medicine prescribed by a vet. The swimming pool can come later. Similarly, if you\u2019re unsure about the amount of exercise you should do with your arthritic dog, make sure you consult with your vet or canine physiotherapist.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Arthritis in dogs is a term used to describe the inflammation of the tissues in the joints. It can occur in any of the joints in your dog\u2019s body, and is fairly common especially in older dogs. Dog hip joints take quite a pounding over the years. It\u2019s one of the body\u2019s major muscles for&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":24524,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[221],"class_list":["post-1876","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-labrador-health","tag-fetch"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Arthritis in Dogs: A Guide to Labrador Arthritis and Arthritis in Other Breeds<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Dog arthritis is both common and painful. 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