Arthritis, simply put, is the painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints—a condition that doesn’t just affect humans, but also our beloved dogs, cats, horses, and really any BODY with bones and joints. It’s a debilitating issue, and one of the top reasons pet parents rush to the vet when their dogs are in pain. Most of the time, they leave with a diagnosis of arthritis. What exactly is arthritis? And, what’s a pet parent to do next?
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Types of Arthritis
The most commonly diagnosed types of arthritis in dogs are osteoarthritis, immune-mediated arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, and arthritis caused by tick-bourne diseases and septic arthritis. Here's a brief overview of each:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
The most common form you’ll encounter is osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD). Osteoarthritis kicks in when the cartilage that cushions the bones in a joint starts to break down. Without that protective cushion, the bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain and decreased mobility. Over time, chronic cases can cause inflammation and even trigger the formation of bony spurs around the joints (this is when you are see it on xrays). Since cartilage doesn’t have a nerve supply, the damage can progress silently until the joint is severely compromised, and the lubricating fluid can no longer protect the bones. Osteoarthritis is a big deal for our furry friends, affecting about 20% of dogs over the age of one, with the risk increasing as they get older—especially in those larger breeds.[1]
Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis (IMPA)
Immune-mediated arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, occurs when your dog’s immune system mistakenly targets its own joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage. Your dog’s immune system is a complex network of white blood cells, antibodies, and other cells designed to fight off infections and foreign invaders that threaten overall health. But when this system gets confused and can’t tell the difference between harmful invaders and the body’s own healthy cells, it starts attacking the good tissues, causing inflammation and pain. This type of arthritis can either be a primary condition or develop as a secondary issue due to other systemic diseases. While it’s less common than osteoarthritis, immune-mediated arthritis is still frequently diagnosed in dogs, especially in breeds predisposed to autoimmune disorders. [2]
Tick-Borne Disease
A common form of immune-mediated polyarthritis (IMPA) in dogs can arise from systemic diseases, particularly tick-borne illnesses. Two of the most common tick-borne diseases that can lead to arthritis or arthritic symptoms are Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. These infections can trigger an immune response that mistakenly targets the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and long-term joint issues.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to dogs through the bite of an infected tick, particularly the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis). One of the hallmark symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs is shifting-leg lameness, which is due to inflammation in the joints. This inflammation can lead to acute or even chronic arthritis. [3]
Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia canis, which is transmitted by the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). One of the potential outcomes of this infection is polyarthritis, where multiple joints become inflamed. This condition can lead to lameness, swelling, and pain in the affected joints, resembling other forms of arthritis. [4]
Septic Arthritis
Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection within the joint, leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. This type of arthritis often results from a penetrating injury, surgery, or the spread of infection through the bloodstream. While it’s less common than osteoarthritis and immune-mediated arthritis, septic arthritis is a serious condition that demands prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe joint damage. [5]
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How Did My Dog Get Arthritis?
Factors contributing to a dog developing arthritis include aging, joint disorders like hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis, elbow dysplasia, previous injuries, repeated trauma to joints, activity levels in working and athletic dogs placing increased stress on joints, obesity, metabolic diseases such as diabetes and Cushing’s disease, exposure to excessive amounts of non-native EMF and blue light and feeding a low nutritive diet, such as kibble.
The food culprits in dog food are pretty much the same as in people food - carbohydrates (sugars), grains, beans, peas, and overly processed foods. It is important to read the ingredients on your pet's food just as you would your own and steer clear of those ingredients as much as possible. In truth, if you're looking to feed an optimal diet to your pets, that means not feeding kibble of any kind.
Top 10 Symptoms of Arthritis
While your dog can't tell you when they are in pain, you can get a pretty good sense that something may be out of sorts if you notice any of the following:
Limping
Strolling gradually
Lagging behind on walks or even a hesitance to go on walks
Difficulty or hesitation to go up or downstairs
Reduction in your dog's play
Refusal of any activity, especially if it is one of your pet's favorite like playing ball
Hesitancy to jump up or down from the couch or bed or car
 Yelping when touched, or opposing being touched.
 Slowness or obvious trouble when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
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These are some of the earliest signs that something might be sore or bothering your pet. Stay vigilant—if you think you notice something off, you probably do. The sooner you reach out to your pet healthcare team, the quicker and easier your pet will be on the road to healing.
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What Can I Do to Reduce the Pain and Inflammation Without Prescription Medication?
Raw Food Diet
Switching your pup to a raw food diet can be a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight and keeping those joints in tip-top shape. By focusing on whole, natural foods and cutting out carbs and processed junk, you’re not only helping your dog shed those extra pounds, but you’re also reducing inflammation that can stress their joints. A leaner, healthier pup means less strain on their joints, which is crucial for keeping them moving comfortably as they age. Plus, with all those unnecessary carbs out of the picture, you’re setting the stage for better overall health and longevity. It’s a win-win for your furry friend!Chiropractic Care
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Circadian Rhythms
Circadian rhythms are what help your pet's body know when it’s time to sleep, wake up, eat, and perform other daily activities. These rhythms influence many physiological processes, including hormone production, body temperature, and metabolism.
For both humans and animals, circadian rhythms are essential for maintaining health and well-being. Disruptions to these rhythms—such as from irregular sleep patterns, exposure to artificial light at night, or limited amounts of sunlight outside—can lead to various health issues, including sleep disorders, weakened immune function, and metabolic problems.
There’s a fascinating connection between the natural environment and your pet's health, and one of the best things you can do for your furry friend is to get them outside to witness the sunrise with you. Regular, gentle outdoor exercise not only strengthens their bond with nature but also keeps their joints healthy, helping to prevent further joint damage. If possible, aim for 4 to 6 hours of outdoor time each day—just letting them soak up that natural sunlight. Sunbathing in those healing rays is key to your dog’s overall well-being!
You can also support their well-being with red light therapy which help to mimic the beneficial wavelengths of the sun. And don’t forget to reduce their exposure to artificial blue light and non-native electromagnetic fields (nnEMF), especially after the sun goes down. A simple way to do this is by turning off the Wi-Fi overnight. These small changes can make a big difference in keeping your pet’s health in harmony with nature.
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Chiropractic Care
I often get asked, "Can chiropractic adjustments help my dog who’s been diagnosed with arthritis?" The answer is a resounding yes! Arthritis is a frequent topic in my conversations with chiropractic clients, and for good reason. Chiropractic adjustments can make a big difference by reducing inflammation in the joints, improving joint mobility, boosting nervous system function, and promoting overall musculoskeletal health. It's all about helping your pup move more comfortably and feel their best!
This is where chiropractic care shines, as adjustments help maintain a normal range of motion in joints, thus maintaining lubrication and joint health. Chiropractic adjustments restore normal joint motion by correcting misalignments (subluxations) in the spine and other joints. When a joint is misaligned or not moving correctly, it can cause abnormal stress on the surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation. By restoring proper alignment and motion, adjustments reduce the abnormal mechanical stress on the joints, which can decrease the production of inflammatory cytokines and reduce inflammation. [6]
The nervous system controls and coordinates all bodily functions, including the immune response. Misalignments in the spine can interfere with nerve communication, leading to dysfunction in the body's ability to regulate inflammation. Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper nerve function, which can enhance the body’s natural ability to regulate inflammation and promote healing. [7]
Regular chiropractic care can improve overall musculoskeletal function, reduce muscle tension, and enhance circulation. This overall improvement in body mechanics can lead to a reduction in chronic inflammation associated with joint stress and injury. By addressing the root cause of joint dysfunction, chiropractic care can help reduce chronic inflammation, improve joint health, and reduce pain. [8] Â This holistic approach can be particularly beneficial for managing conditions like arthritis, where inflammation plays a significant role in pain and joint degradation.
Red Light Therapy, PEMF and Laser Therapy
When it comes to easing arthritis pain in your pet, cutting-edge therapies like red light therapy, Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy, and laser treatments can offer significant relief. Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair, which can be particularly beneficial for pets suffering from arthritis. PEMF therapy works by generating electromagnetic fields that stimulate cellular regeneration and improve blood circulation, further alleviating pain and enhancing joint function.
Meanwhile, laser therapy applies focused light to targeted areas, helping to reduce pain and inflammation while accelerating the healing process. These therapies, often used in combination, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing arthritis, improving your pet's comfort and mobility. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.[10][11][12]
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Joint Protective Supplements
Joint protective products for dogs are specially formulated supplements and treatments designed to support and maintain healthy joints, especially as they age or if they’re dealing with conditions like arthritis. These products typically include ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help to cushion the joints, reduce inflammation, and promote overall mobility. Whether it’s in the form of chews, powders, or oils, these joint protectors are all about keeping your dog’s joints in top shape, so they can stay active, comfortable, and happy!
In Summary
Arthritis is a painful condition that affects your dog’s joints, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and reduced mobility. But the good news is there are plenty of natural ways to help your furry friend feel better, such as feeding a raw diet to maintaining a healthy weight, adding joint-supporting supplements,  regular gentle exercise, plenty of outdoor time, and treatments like chiropractic care or red light therapy can make a world of difference. By taking a holistic approach, you can help manage your dog’s arthritis and keep them feeling their best.
Sharing is caring! If you know a pup struggling with arthritis, please share this information and help them find relief.
Book a virtual pet wellness consult with Dr. Andi today! Whether you're navigating the ins and outs of feeding schedules, tackling health concerns, or just looking for personalized advice to keep your pet happy and healthy, Dr. Andi is here to guide you every step of the way.
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Citations
Johnston, S. A. (1997). Osteoarthritis: Joint anatomy, physiology, and pathobiology. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice*, 27(4), 699-723.
 Clements, D. N., Carter, S. D., Innes, J. F., Ollier, W. E. R. (2010). Genetic basis of primary immune-mediated polyarthritis in the dog. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine*, 24(3), 530-536.
Littman, M. P., Goldstein, R. E., Labato, M. A., Lappin, M. R., & Moore, G. E. (2006). ACVIM small animal consensus statement on Lyme disease in dogs: Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine*, 20(2), 422-434.
Harrus, S., & Waner, T. (2011). Diagnosis of canine monocytotropic ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia canis): An overview. Veterinary Journal, 187(3), 292-296.
Lappin, M. R., Griffin, B., Brannan, A. K., et al. (2006). Septic arthritis in dogs: Clinical and microbiological findings. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 42(4), 237-243.
McMorland, G., Suter, E., Casha, S., du Plessis, S. J., & Hurlbert, R. J. (2010). Manipulation or microdiskectomy for sciatica? A prospective randomized clinical study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(8), 576-584.
Budgell, B. (2000). Central neural mechanisms of autonomic control of the immune system and the effect of spinal manipulation. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 23(8), 546-550.
Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., Injeyan, H. S., & Ruegg, R. (2006). Spinal manipulative therapy reduces inflammatory cytokines but not substance P production in normal subjects. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(1), 14-21.
Low-Level Laser Therapy: A Practical Guide, by David W. H. A. K.
PEMF Therapy: The 21st Century Healing Technology, by Dr. Bob Martin
Laser Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: A Practical Guide, by Dr. Daniel M. Stashak
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