Dog Arthritis: How to Relieve It Naturally?

Dog arthritis is a common condition, especially as they age.
It is characterized by the degeneration of the joints, causing pain and reduced mobility.
Fortunately, there are natural solutions to improve your four-legged companion's well-being.
Discover how to recognize the symptoms and what natural methods to adopt.

What is dog arthritis?

Canine arthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the progressive destruction of cartilage.
It often affects older dogs, but it can also appear in younger dogs due to trauma, genetic predispositions, or overweight.

What are the early signs of canine arthritis?

The first symptoms of arthritis can be subtle.
Here are some common signs:

• Reluctance to play, jump, or climb stairs.
• Morning stiffness or stiffness after a period of rest.
• Lameness or limping.
• Pain when touching the joints.
• Licking or biting painful areas.

If you notice these symptoms, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.

Natural treatments for dog arthritis

Many natural treatments can help alleviate joint pain and improve mobility.
Here are some effective solutions:

• Glucosamine 

Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and natural supplement derived from shellfish.
It is found naturally in the dog's body.

It produces what are called glycosaminoglycans (GAG) used as a lubricant to repair cartilage in joints.
Glucosamine is widely used as an anti-inflammatory in dogs and is an amino acid which plays an essential role in cartilage.

Supplementation increases the body's ability to make collagen and proteoglycans to rebuild the joint and support the synovial fluid that lubricates it.

Glucosamine sulfate comes in capsules (aff).
A dose of 200mg per 5kg (10 pounds) can simply be added to his diet.

Glucosamine is a safe product and if your dog has severe osteoarthritis you can double the dose and give him for life.

• Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a natural constituent of the body.
It helps in the formation and maintenance of cartilage.

Thus, it helps relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis and would even have the ability to stop or at least slow down joint degeneration.

For the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs, a dose of 65mg of chondroitin sulfate for 5kg (10 pounds) of body weight is recommended (aff).

• MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane)

MSM is a compound naturally produced by the body with an essential anti-inflammatory role.

The advantage of MSM supplementation lies in its 34% sulfur content.
This trace element participates in many functions of the body and particularly in the regulation of the inflammatory response.
Numerous studies show that it reduces inflammatory pain as well as joint stiffness and swelling.

A 200mg dose of MSM powder for 5 kg (10 pounds) of weight is recommended for dogs (aff).

• Fish oil

Fish oil contains Omega 3 needed to strengthen joints and reduce inflammation.
These essential fatty acids are well documented and show their potent anti-inflammatory action.

Thus, supplementing your dog with fish oil will help him better manage his pain, but it is also proven that the essential fatty acids Omega 3 EPA DHA slow the progression of osteoarthritis and restore joint flexibility.

Feel free to give it 1 fish oil capsule several times a week (aff).

• Turmeric 

Turmeric is a well-known anti-inflammatory.
Its interest lies in curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer and antifungal properties.

Supplementing your dog with turmeric will help him manage his pain better while reducing the stiffness of his joints.

The dosage for dogs is 50mg of turmeric powder for 5kg (10 pounds) of body weight (aff).

• Boswellia

Boswellia or frankincense tree has many benefits including being an excellent anti-inflammatory.
Often used as a basic treatment for osteoarthritis, it is also effective at the time of seizures.

The recommended dosage of boswellia serrata is 25mg per 5kg (10 pounds) of weight each day (aff).

• Ginger

Ginger is a very interesting natural anti-inflammatory.
Naturally rich in fiber, trace elements (zinc, magnesium, iodine, phosphorus, potassium) and vitamins C, B and E, the root of ginger soothes the pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Use a ginger powder at the rate of a pinch per day sprinkled in the diet for a dog weighing 10kg, half a teaspoon for a dog weighing 10 to 25kg, 1 teaspoon for a dog over 30kg (aff).

Hydrotherapy for dog osteoarthritis

If your dog suffers from severe osteoarthritis which greatly limits his mobility, it may be a good idea to consider hydrotherapy to bring him back to a decent quality of life.
It is a rehabilitation technique that uses water for therapeutic purposes.

He will be able to enjoy sessions in a heated swimming pool from 26 to 28°C and swim in such a way as to make his four limbs work for a capital muscle building for joint support.

These sessions will significantly reduce his pain and allow him to regain some mobility fairly quickly.

Orthotics and joint supports for dogs

Orthotics for dogs are an interesting alternative to medication.
They help relieve pain without side effects, while also improving mobility.
Whether for daily use or specific activities, these accessories are valuable tools for enhancing your dog's quality of life.

Knee braces for dogs

If your dog suffers from knee pain or instability, a knee brace can be an excellent option (aff).
It provides gentle compression while delivering soothing warmth, improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing comfort during movement.
It is especially useful for dogs that have experienced ligament injuries or suffer from patellar luxation.

Elbow braces for front legs

For arthritic dogs or those suffering from elbow dysplasia, an elbow brace can make a significant difference (aff).
It relieves pressure on the joints and provides optimal support, allowing your dog to walk more easily.
This type of brace is also recommended after surgery to aid recovery.

Hip support orthotics

Dogs with hip dysplasia or advanced arthritis in this area can benefit from hip support orthotics (aff).
These devices stabilize movement, reduce friction in the joint, and alleviate pain through diffused heat.
Adjustable models ensure a perfect fit for your dog's anatomy, offering maximum comfort.

Exercises for dogs with arthritis

Moderate exercise is essential to maintain your dog’s mobility while avoiding stiffness.
Here are some suitable examples:

• Regular walks: Opt for walks on flat, soft ground, around 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a day.
• Gentle swimming: The buoyancy reduces pressure on the joints while strengthening muscles. A pool or shallow lake is ideal.
• Light play: Use a ball or rope for gentle play, avoiding abrupt movements and long sprints.
• Guided stretching: Help your dog gently stretch to improve joint flexibility.

Avoid jumps, hard surfaces, and overly intense exercises that could worsen pain.

Diet for dogs with arthritis

A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet helps support joint health in your dog:

• Lean proteins: Choose sources like chicken, turkey, or fish to maintain muscle mass and reduce joint strain.
• Fruits and vegetables: Include antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, spinach, and sweet potatoes to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
• Essential fatty acids: Include foods with Omega-3s, such as fish oil or flax seeds, to soothe joints.
• Avoid processed carbohydrates: Limit low-quality kibble or sugary treats, as they promote inflammation.

Improving comfort at home

Simple adjustments at home can greatly alleviate your dog's discomfort:

• Orthopedic bed: Provide a thick, soft mattress to reduce pressure on sensitive joints.
• Access ramps: Install ramps to help your dog get in and out of the car or avoid difficult stairs.
• Healthy weight: Monitor your dog’s diet to prevent overweight, which could worsen joint pain.

Related: 7 Best Dog Beds for Canines with Joint and Heart Conditions

When to consult a veterinarian

While these natural solutions are effective, some situations may require veterinary intervention, particularly if:

• Pain persists despite natural treatments.
• Your dog shows signs of depression or loss of appetite.
• Severe lameness or inability to move develops.

Gentle solutions for a happy companion

Arthritis in dogs can cause significant suffering, but with proper management, you can greatly improve their comfort.
By combining natural treatments, moderate exercises, a tailored diet, and a comfortable environment, you can provide your four-legged companion with a better quality of life.
Remember that every dog is unique, so don't hesitate to consult a veterinarian for personalized follow-up.
With your care and attention, your dog can enjoy its time with you without excessive pain.

Related: How to Relieve Your Dog's Pain Naturally

FAQ - Dog arthritis: Natural solutions

Is arthritis in dogs reversible?

No, arthritis is a degenerative condition that cannot be fully cured. However, it can be managed effectively with appropriate treatments to alleviate pain and slow disease progression.

At what age can a dog suffer from arthritis?

Although arthritis is more common in older dogs, it can develop at any age, especially in large dogs or those who have experienced joint injuries.

When should I start a preventative treatment for arthritis?

It is best to begin as soon as you notice signs of stiffness or pain in your dog, even if these signs are subtle. Preventative treatment can help slow down the onset of arthritis and maintain joint health longer.

Does climate play a role in my dog’s arthritis?

Yes, cold temperatures and humidity can exacerbate arthritis symptoms in some dogs. It is important to protect your dog from the cold and moisture to minimize joint pain.

Are natural treatments enough to manage arthritis in dogs?

Natural treatments, such as supplements and hydrotherapy, are effective for relieving pain and improving mobility, but in severe cases, a combined approach with veterinary treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, etc.) may be necessary for optimal relief.

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