How to Recognize Osteoarthritis in Dogs

Have you noticed your dog slowing down, limping after long naps, or avoiding stairs lately? These aren’t always just signs of getting older. They can be symptoms of osteoarthritis, a progressive joint condition that causes real pain and limits mobility. It’s common, but it’s also very manageable, and the earlier you catch it, the more you can do to keep your dog comfortable and active.

What is osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is a condition where the cartilage inside a joint, the cushioning tissue that allows bones to move smoothly against each other, gradually breaks down. As that cushioning wears away, bones begin to rub together, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It affects around 20% of dogs overall, with the risk increasing significantly as dogs get older. While there’s no cure, managing the condition well can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s day-to-day life.

Signs and symptoms of arthritis in dogs

Recognizing arthritis symptoms early makes a real difference in how well it can be managed. Key signs to watch for include:

• Stiffness after rest or long naps
• Limping, especially after walks or playtime
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or go on walks
• Behavioral changes like irritability or withdrawal
• Licking or chewing at painful joints
• Muscle loss around affected limbs

If you’re noticing these signs, especially in a senior or large-breed dog, it’s worth reaching out to your vet for a checkup.

Causes of canine osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis often develops from wear and tear on a dog’s joints, but it’s not just an “old age” condition. Here’s what can contribute:

• Aging: With time, joint cartilage wears down naturally
• Injuries: Past trauma to joints can speed up cartilage degeneration
• Obesity: Extra weight adds strain on joints
• Orthopedic conditions: Issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or luxating patella
• Genetics: Certain breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are more prone

Diagnosing dog arthritis

Vets use a combination of your dog’s symptoms and medical history to diagnose osteoarthritis. Here’s what the process looks like:

Physical exam

The vet will check your dog’s joints for swelling, stiffness, or pain during movement.

X-rays

X-rays provide a clear view of the joint and can reveal changes like bone spurs (extra bone growth that develops around damaged joints), narrowing of the joint space, or other signs of deterioration that confirm arthritis.

Treatment options for dog arthritis

A combination of treatments often provides the best results for dogs with arthritis. Your vet may recommend:

• NSAIDs: These vet-prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs provide pain relief. Examples include carprofen and newer options like Librela (a monthly injection targeting pain-causing nerve growth)
• Joint supplements: Products containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s can support joint health
• Weight management: Losing even a small amount of weight can greatly reduce joint strain
• Physical therapy: Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy improve muscle strength and maintain mobility
• Home adjustments: Orthopedic dog beds, ramps, and non-slip flooring can help your dog stay comfortable

For more severe cases, specialist surgery such as joint replacement may be an option. This is typically reserved for specific situations and performed by a veterinary specialist, so your vet will advise whether a referral makes sense for your dog.

Does pet insurance cover arthritis?

Yes, arthritis is covered under Lemonade Pet’s base accident and illness policy, as long as it isn’t pre-existing. That includes eligible costs like diagnostic imaging, medications, and vet consultations that are typically part of managing the condition.

Arthritis management often includes physical therapy, things like hydrotherapy or assisted exercises that help keep your dog mobile and comfortable over time. Lemonade’s Physical Therapy add-on can help cover the cost of those sessions, making it easier to stay consistent with the rehabilitation your dog needs.

Getting a policy in place before signs of arthritis appear is the smartest move. Once symptoms show up, the condition is typically considered pre-existing and won’t be eligible for coverage.

Before we go

Osteoarthritis in dogs may not be curable, but it doesn’t have to define your dog’s life. Catching it early, working closely with your vet, and staying consistent with treatment can keep your dog comfortable and active for years to come. If you haven’t looked into pet insurance yet, now is a good time, before joint issues have a chance to develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC.  The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.