Arthritis and osteoarthritis in dogs – with special attention for the older dog

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are among the most common musculoskeletal disorders in dogs, especially in aging dogs. However, the signs are often recognized late because symptoms develop gradually and dogs are masters of adapting to pain. Fortunately, there are many ways to help dogs with these conditions move comfortably, vitally, and with pleasure – especially when regular care is supplemented with a naturopathic approach.

What are arthritis and osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage gradually deteriorates. This reduces its shock-absorbing function, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Arthritis is an inflammatory reaction in or around the joint. It can occur simultaneously with osteoarthritis, but also independently, for example, due to overuse, trauma, or a dysregulated immune system.

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are very common in older dogs. Wear and tear, reduced muscle mass, hormonal changes, and a slower metabolism make joints more vulnerable as a dog ages.

Complaints and signals – how do you recognize them?

Symptoms vary from dog to dog, but common signs include:

• Limping, especially after rest or exertion

• Difficulty getting up or lying down

• Stiffness, especially in the morning or in cold/damp weather

• Less enthusiasm for walking or playing

• Slower pace during the walk

• Changes in behavior, such as irritability or withdrawal

• Less muscle mass (muscle atrophy)

Owners often see their dog "getting older" and accept the changes as inevitable. Yet, pain is never normal, even in senior dogs.

Regular treatment and the downside

In conventional veterinary medicine, treatment for arthritis and arthrosis usually consists of pain relief, often in the form of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as:

• Carprofen

• Meloxicam

• Firocoxib

• Librela

• Gabapentin

These agents can be effective in suppressing pain and inflammation, but they also have clear disadvantages, especially with long-term use:

• Taxing for the liver and kidneys

• Decreased appetite, nausea or diarrhea

• Possible damage to the gastrointestinal tract

• Masking complaints without supporting recovery

Long-term pain relief can be problematic, especially in older dogs, where organs have less reserve.

Don't worry: arthritis and arthrosis can often be managed well

While arthritis and osteoarthritis cannot be cured, there are often significant gains to be made. With the right support, pain, stiffness, and disability can be significantly reduced. The goal is not just to treat symptoms, but to optimize the body's overall functioning.

The power of naturopathy

The naturopathic approach looks not only at the joint, but at the dog as a whole . It is based on:

• Supporting the self-healing capacity

• Reducing Inflammation Without Suppression

• Improving blood circulation and energy flows

• Strengthening muscles, tendons and connective tissue

This is done with natural remedies that are generally without side effects and can be used for long periods of time.

Nutrition as the foundation for a smooth musculoskeletal system

Nutrition is an essential foundation in supporting dogs with joint problems, especially in older dogs.

A diet based on fresh meat and cooked vegetables offers important benefits:

• High-quality proteins for maintaining and building muscle mass

• Natural building blocks for connective tissue and joints

• Fewer pro-inflammatory ingredients (such as grains and sugars)

• Improved digestibility and absorption of nutrients

A well-functioning musculoskeletal system starts with a well-nourished body.

Practical experience – NENA, Greek rescue dog

Naturopathic practice – Annette de Vogel

NENA is a Greek rescue dog, a large female weighing 40 kg and 9 years old. She came to the naturopathic practice complaining of a noticeable limp after every walk.

Observation and diagnosis

Upon observation, it was immediately noticeable that NENA had significant muscle loss , particularly around her hindquarters. She was also hypermobile .

Hypermobility in dogs means that joints have more freedom of movement than normal because the ligaments and capsules are too weak. This leads to instability, extra stress on the joint, and increased wear and tear. Combined with muscle loss, this almost always causes pain and the development or worsening of arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The naturopathic approach

A multidisciplinary, supportive approach was chosen:

• Acupuncture – very effective for pain, muscle tension and blood circulation

• Easing Balance – a herbal tincture that works as a natural pain reliever and improves circulation

• CBDa oil Carlotta 10% – 3 drops 2 to 3 times a day, to support anti-inflammatory, pain regulation and relaxation of the nervous system

• Supplements aimed at:

  • Muscle building

  • Support of ligaments, tendons and joints

• Dietary advice : fresh meat combined with cooked vegetables, to reduce inflammation and ensure optimal supply of building materials.

Result

After six weeks, we received feedback that the limping after the walk had completely disappeared. NENA felt visibly better, moved more smoothly, and looked vital and comfortable in her body again.

Lifelong support for the older dog

For older dogs with musculoskeletal complaints, it is strongly recommended to continue with supportive measures and optimal nutrition on a structural basis .

Why?

• The body loses muscle mass and recovery capacity over the years

• Joints remain vulnerable to inflammation and overload

• Preventive support prevents relapse

• It contributes to comfort, mobility and quality of life

By continuously supporting the body, the dog can continue to move freely and with pleasure for as long as possible.

Finally

Arthritis and osteoarthritis don't have to be synonymous with decline. With an integrated approach—combining nutrition, supplements, natural pain relief, and treatments like acupuncture—it's often possible to offer an aging dog a comfortable and vital life.

Experiences from the naturopathic practice of Annette de Vogel show that support from the totality can make all the difference.