How arthritis affects your dog – and how you can help

Lucy Howells, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box, explains how arthritis affects dogs, how symptoms manifest in daily movement, and how owners can support joint comfort through nutrition and simple at-home care.

Arthritis changes how a dog walks, rests, and plays. Most owners notice stiffness first. Dogs rise more slowly from sleep, hesitate with stairs, or stop jumping on the sofa. These early shifts show pressure inside the joints long before the pain becomes obvious.

Dogs do not show discomfort in the same way humans do. They hide pain because they try to stay active with their families. Owners often think their dog is slowing down due to age, when the joints are under strain. The earlier we support joint health through food and routine, the easier daily movement feels.

Dogs feel arthritis through small limits that build over time. Cold floors feel sharper. Joints feel stiff after long naps. Walks start smoothly, then slow halfway through. These signals guide how we support them.

Some dogs push through discomfort because they enjoy activity. Others step back from play, avoid climbing, or stop greeting people with the same enthusiasm. These changes reflect joint stress rather than personality. When owners understand these signals, daily life becomes more comfortable for their dogs.

Signs your dog feels comfortable with their movement

• Smooth steps without hesitation. Dogs move from room to room with a steady pace and even weight distribution. Their joints handle daily activity without visible strain.
• Willingness to walk or play at a steady pace. They join you for walks without slowing early or looking for shortcuts. They show interest in toys, light play, or gentle running without signs of discomfort.
• Resting without frequent shifting. Comfortable dogs settle into one position and stay relaxed. They do not shuffle, change sides often, or rise to adjust pressure on their joints.
• Relaxed posture after activity. Their body stays loose after walks or play. They stretch without stiffness and settle down without heavy breathing or guarded movement.

Signs your dog could be in discomfort

• Stiffness after rest. When joints feel stressed, dogs rise slowly or take short, careful steps. This is one of the earliest signs of arthritis.
• Changes in gait. A dog who favours one side or shortens their stride is likely protecting a joint. This shift tells us the body is working harder than usual.
• Reduced interest in play. When a dog walks away from toys or stops initiating play, the issue often links to joint strain.
• Irritability during handling. Dogs who turn their head, move away, or tense when touched near the hips or shoulders are signalling discomfort. This behaviour often increases as inflammation builds.

The role of nutrition in joint health

The right ingredients support joints in natural ways. Nutrition affects inflammation, cartilage strength, and recovery after daily movement. When meals include targeted nutrients, dogs feel steadier, lighter, and more comfortable.

• Omega-3 and 6s (from fish like salmon or sardines)
  Omega-3s and 6s support joint comfort because they reduce inflammation inside the joint. Dogs often show smoother movement after consistent intake. It supports dogs of all ages, including seniors.
• Glucosamine
  Glucosamine supports cartilage. It gives joints a smoother surface for movement. This helps dogs who struggle with stiffness after rest or after long days.
• Chondroitin
  Chondroitin supports joint shock absorption. It helps the body maintain fluid inside the joint. Dogs show fewer signs of strain when this support is present.
• Turmeric
  Turmeric supports joint comfort through its natural anti-inflammatory properties. Even small amounts help reduce stiffness when used as part of a balanced plan.

Nutrition does not prevent arthritis, but it improves quality of life. Dogs feel lighter and more stable when their body receives support from consistent ingredients.

Practical nutrition steps for dogs with arthritis

• Choose meals with high-quality protein. Strong muscles support weak joints. Protein keeps the body stable and reduces pressure during movement.
• Keep body weight steady. A healthy weight helps the joints work without strain. Even small weight drops improve comfort.
• Add joint-supporting toppers. A spoon of mashed sardines or a sprinkle of turmeric supports daily comfort in simple ways.
• Pick low-fat treats. Soft, high-protein treats and keep calories balanced.
• Simple home habits that support joint comfort. Soft bedding protects joints during rest. Warm rooms reduce stiffness. Ramps for beds or cars help dogs avoid strain. Short, steady walks help more than long, intense ones. Controlled movement keeps the joints warm without overloading them.

What I love about caring for dogs with arthritis is seeing how small changes transform their comfort. A dog who once hesitated to stand starts greeting their family again. A dog who stopped playing begins to join in. These shifts show how much difference the right support makes.

Dogs want connection. They follow us on walks, rest beside us, and stay close during the day. When their joints feel supported, those moments stay easy and enjoyable. Owners do not need complicated routines. Consistent nutrition, gentle activity, and warm, calm spaces help dogs feel secure, steady, and included. Arthritis becomes manageable when we support dogs with structure and care designed for their daily comfort.

This is a guest post by Lucy Howells.