How Do I Know If My Dog Has Arthritis?
Many signs may indicate your dog is suffering from arthritis, even though most dogs are very stoic creatures and tend to mask signs of pain. Signs may include one or more of the following:
- Stiff when trying to move or walk around
- Difficulty when trying to get up from a sitting or lying down position
- Apparent pain when touched
- Not as energetic as usual
- Irritable and mood changes
- Lameness in one or more legs
- Stiff, sore, or swollen joints
- Reluctance to jump, get onto furniture, use the steps
- Weight gain (from inactivity)
Although these are common signs of arthritis in pet dogs, they are also very similar to canine hip dysplasia. So, If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, it is worth booking an appointment to see your veterinarian as soon as you can. Only with a physical examination and x-ray will you be able to figure out what has got your pup down in the dumps lately.

What causes arthritis in dogs?
Arthritis can occur in dogs for idiopathic reasons, that is, the cartilage in the joint degenerates for unknown reasons. Genetic predisposition may be a factor in some dogs. More often, arthritis is secondary in nature, or caused by an orthopedic condition such as cranial cruciate ligament disease or hip dysplasia. An injury or strain to a joint can also result in damage to cartilage in the joint and result in decreased function of the cartilage in cushioning the joint.
How can arthritis be treated?
There is no cure for arthritis, but the pain can often be managed with anti-inflammatories and/or painkillers. Relieving pain improves mobility which helps to maintain supporting muscle mass. Weight control is vital in managing symptoms and supplements can also reduce stiffness, promote better joint health and increase mobility. But dogs with arthritis are likely to need medication; your vet will be able to advise on this. Massage, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy may also help. In some cases, surgery may be advised but it’s unlikely that surgery will restore perfect joint function for life.
Laser Therapy Treatments for Arthritic Dogs
Cold laser therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses light to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood circulation. It is a non-invasive photobiomodulation therapy which employs deep-penetrating light to promote a chain of chemical reactions known as photobiostimulation. This process helps relieve pain through the release of endorphins, and it stimulates injured cells to heal at an accelerated pace.
Cold laser therapy is an alternative treatment of arthritic inflammation and chronic pain in dogs. It’s not a panacea, but combined with other treatment, it can alleviate your dog’s arthritis pain.
What are the benefits of laser therapy for arthritis?
Cold laser therapy can be used to treat a vast majority of musculoskeletal injuries as well as inflammation of joints. Considering arthritis is a condition that causes painful inflammation and stiffness of joints, the cold laser therapy is a perfect alternative treatment for dogs suffering with arthritis. The non-invasive therapy is used to reduce inflammation and swelling of joints and reduce stiffness by increasing the joins range of motion. According to studies, approximately 70% of arthritic dogs experience noticeable improvements in quality of life following cold laser treatment.
What are the side effects of laser therapy?
There are no known side effects of cold laser therapy when used correctly. It’s a non-invasive physiotherapy, safe and effective for pain management. All our laser therapy devices are confirmed to be safe for use at home.
Laser Therapy Devices to Help Dogs With Arthritis At Home
You can do many things to add comfort to your arthritic dog’s life in the home. Here are a few of our superb products with overwhelmingly positive feedback I would like to recommend to all of you.