Canine Arthritis Treatment & Physiotherapy | Kirsten Vet Physio Canine Arthritis Treatment & Support | Kirsten Vet Physio

Understanding Canine Arthritis

Helping your dog stay comfortable, active, and happy through expert veterinary physiotherapy and supportive care.

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What Is Canine Arthritis?

Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting dogs, but it is not just an ‘old dog disease’. Arthritis can affect dogs of all ages, including young and active dogs. It causes inflammation within the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage inside a joint gradually wears down. This can happen due to ageing, injury, joint abnormalities, or repetitive strain.

Research has shown that nearly 40% of clinically healthy dogs aged between 8 months and 4 years already had signs of arthritis in at least one joint, with many owners unaware their dog was in discomfort.

Early intervention can make a significant difference in maintaining your dog’s quality of life. Veterinary physiotherapy can help reduce discomfort, improve movement, and support long-term joint health.

Common Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

Symptoms can develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal ageing.

Stiffness

Difficulty getting up after resting or stiffness after walks.

Limping

Intermittent or ongoing lameness, especially after activity.

Reduced Activity

Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go for walks.

Behaviour Changes

Irritability, sleeping more, or avoiding interaction.

Muscle loss around affected joints
Slower movement during walks
Licking or chewing painful joints
Difficulty getting comfortable

Arthritis Is Not Just About Stopping Walks

Many owners worry that exercise will make arthritis worse, but the right type of exercise is actually incredibly important.

Stiff After Walks?

If your dog appears stiff, sore, or slower after a walk, this can be a sign they are doing too much and irritating already inflamed joints.

Movement Matters

Dogs with arthritis should not stop exercising completely. Gentle movement helps maintain muscle strength, joint support, and mobility.

Targeted Exercises Help

Tailored physiotherapy exercises can strengthen weak areas, improve balance, and reduce strain on painful joints.

Exercise Is More Than Walks

Mental enrichment, controlled strengthening work, balance exercises, hydrotherapy, and mobility exercises are all important forms of activity.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Veterinary physiotherapy is tailored to your dog’s individual needs and mobility goals.

Pain Management

Gentle manual therapies and targeted exercises can help reduce discomfort and stiffness.

Improve Mobility

Strengthening exercises support weak muscles and improve joint stability.

Maintain Muscle Strength

Keeping muscles active helps reduce strain on arthritic joints.

Enhance Quality of Life

Supporting movement allows dogs to stay active and enjoy daily life for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful information for dog owners managing arthritis.

Arthritis cannot usually be cured, but it can often be managed very successfully with the right combination of physiotherapy, exercise management, weight control, and veterinary care.

Yes. Controlled, appropriate exercise is extremely important for maintaining joint movement and muscle strength. Overexertion should be avoided.

Older dogs, larger breeds, overweight dogs, and dogs with previous injuries or orthopaedic conditions are more likely to develop arthritis.

Support Your Dog’s Mobility & Comfort

If you suspect your dog may be struggling with arthritis, early support can make a real difference. Get in touch to discuss a personalised physiotherapy plan.

Contact Kirsten Vet Physio