Can arthritis in dogs be cured or just managed?

Arthritis in dogs is a chronic condition that affects millions of pets around the world, especially as they age.

Characterized by inflammation in the joints, it can lead to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and a significant decline in quality of life. Many pet owners, upon receiving this diagnosis, wonder if arthritis in dogs can be cured or if it is something that must be managed for the rest of the pet’s life.

The short answer is that, unfortunately, arthritis in dogs cannot be cured in the traditional sense. Once the cartilage in the joints has been damaged or worn away, it does not regenerate. However, the condition can be effectively managed through a combination of medical, physical, and sometimes surgical interventions that aim to slow the progression of the disease and relieve discomfort.

The first step in managing canine arthritis is recognizing the signs early. Dogs may show subtle symptoms at first—such as reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go on long walks—but as the disease progresses, limping, stiffness, or even behavioral changes like irritability and decreased interest in play can appear. Veterinarians typically diagnose arthritis through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests like X-rays. Once diagnosed, the goal shifts to managing the inflammation and preserving joint function.

Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs, which reduce pain and swelling. These are sometimes supplemented with joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which may help support cartilage health and delay further deterioration.

In more severe cases, intra-articular injections—such as hyaluronic acid, corticosteroids, or newer biological therapies like platelet-rich plasma—may be considered to alleviate symptoms. Weight management also plays a crucial role, as excess weight puts additional stress on joints and accelerates the degeneration process.

Physical therapy and low-impact exercise are essential components of a good arthritis management plan.

Activities such as controlled walks and swimming can help maintain muscle mass and improve joint stability without placing too much strain on the joints. Some veterinarians also recommend acupuncture, laser therapy, or even stem cell therapy in selected cases, depending on the pet’s overall health and response to conventional treatments. Orthopedic beds and non-slip flooring can also provide comfort and improve safety for arthritic dogs at home.

Surgery may be indicated when medical management fails to provide relief, or when the joint damage is so severe that movement becomes extremely painful. Procedures like femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement are options in certain cases, and they can dramatically improve a dog’s mobility and comfort when appropriately selected.

Although arthritis cannot be reversed, many dogs live happy and active lives with proper care and adjustments.

Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual dog can make a significant difference. The most important thing a pet owner can do is work closely with their veterinarian to monitor the condition and make timely adjustments in the treatment strategy as the dog ages or if symptoms change.

References:

Johnston, S. A., & Budsberg, S. C. (1997). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and osteoarthritis in dogs: efficacy and safety. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 27(4), 841–862.Innes, J. F., et al. (2010). Joint disease in the dog: from pathophysiology to treatment. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 51(7), 361–369.

About the autor

Felipe Garofallo is a veterinarian in Brazil, specialized in orthopedic and neurosurgical care for dogs and cats.

He is also the founder of Ortho for Pets – Veterinary Orthopedics and Specialties.