What to give a senior dog with arthritis?
Felipe Hoeger
2025-07-05 16:53:38
Count answers
: 10
Exercise can reduce pain and stiffness, moving the joints actually produces synovial fluid which lubricates your pet’s joints. The ASPCA recommends daily walks for arthritic dogs. Two to three 15-20 minute walks a day will be beneficial. You don’t want to overdo it. Another low-impact activity is swimming. If your dog likes to swim and you have a place for him to do so, swimming will help increase mobility too.
You may be able to ease your dog’s pain and slow down the progression of arthritis with supplements and medications. If your pet is in a lot of pain, your veterinarian may prescribe an anti-inflammatory for your dog. There are many prescription-strength NSAIDs that may be suitable or you may find a combination of Omega 3 fish oil and glucosamine works well for your dog.
Supports can also help, dog ramps/steps will help your dog get to where he wants to go without risking injury. Orthopedic beds offer extra cushioning and some of them have gel inserts for cooling inflamed joints. Raised dog bowls can also help, as some dogs have arthritis in the neck or shoulder joints and it’s hard to raise and lower their heads to reach the dishes.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, even a little extra weight can make a big difference when it comes to pressure on the joints. Every extra pound on your dog is equal to 20 extra pounds on you.
Grace Rutherford
2025-06-23 18:45:08
Count answers
: 15
Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatories and/or painkillers to relieve some of your dog's pain and improve mobility. These medications can come in the form of daily tablets or liquids that are given with food, or an injection which is given monthly by your vet. Some vets may also discuss joint supplements or special diets that may be beneficial for your dog. Weight control is also helpful, keeping your dog at a healthy body weight is the most important thing you can do to help with their arthritis. Not only is fat more weight to carry around on sore joints, but it also makes inflammation worse. Providing a soft, comfortable bed will help to take pressure off your dog’s joints when they are resting. Massages, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy may also help. Swimming can also be a great low-impact exercise if your dog enjoys it.
Read also
- What is the best flooring for dogs with arthritis?
- What is the best natural thing for dogs joints?
- Is carpet better for dog joints?
- Is a raised bed better for dogs with arthritis?
- Should dogs with arthritis sleep on the floor?
- What kind of flooring is good for joint pain?
- What is a natural anti-inflammatory for dogs?
- What carpet to avoid with dogs?
- What is bad for dog joints?