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2nd October, 2026
As dogs get older, it's natural to notice small changes in how they move. They might take longer to get up, hesitate before jumping onto the sofa, or seem less enthusiastic on walks.
These changes are sometimes linked to arthritis, a common condition that affects joints and can gradually impact mobility and comfort.
While arthritis cannot be cured, it can often be managed with the right support. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options and costs can help you feel more prepared if your dog develops joint problems.
Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a condition that affects the joints.
In healthy joints, cartilage allows bones to move smoothly. With arthritis, this cartilage becomes worn over time, leading to stiffness, swelling and discomfort.
This can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs or getting up from rest more difficult.
Arthritis is a progressive condition, meaning it tends to develop gradually and may worsen over time.
Arthritis can develop for several reasons, and sometimes there isn’t a single clear cause.
Common factors include:
Age-related wear and tear on joints
Previous injuries, such as ligament damage
Joint conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia
Carrying excess weight
Certain breeds being more prone to joint problems
Although arthritis is more common in older dogs, it can also affect younger dogs, particularly if they have underlying joint issues.
Arthritis symptoms often develop slowly, which means they can be easy to miss at first.
Stiffness, especially after resting
Limping or favouring one leg
Slowing down on walks
Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
Swollen or uncomfortable joints
Changes in behaviour, such as being quieter or more irritable
In the early stages, you might notice smaller changes in your dog’s routine, such as:
Taking longer to stand up
Pausing before jumping into the car
Lagging slightly behind on walks
Licking or chewing at joints
If you’re unsure whether these changes might be linked to arthritis, this guide on how to tell if your dog has arthritis can help you recognise the signs.
You can also learn more about mobility problems in dogs and what to look out for.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s movement or behaviour, it’s always worth speaking to your vet.
Early diagnosis can help:
Reduce discomfort earlier
Slow the progression of arthritis
Maintain your dog’s mobility for longer
A vet will usually carry out a physical examination and may recommend further tests, such as X-rays, to confirm the diagnosis.
Although arthritis cannot be cured, there are several ways to manage the condition and support your dog’s comfort.
Treatment is usually tailored to your dog and may include a combination of approaches.
Vets often prescribe medication to help reduce inflammation and discomfort, including anti-inflammatory drugs.
These treatments aim to keep your dog comfortable and improve mobility.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can reduce pressure on joints and help manage symptoms.
Even small changes in weight can make a difference to joint strain.
Regular, gentle exercise can help maintain joint flexibility.
This might include:
Short, steady walks
Avoiding high-impact activities
Allowing time for rest
Some dogs may benefit from additional support, such as:
Physiotherapy
Hydrotherapy
Joint supplements
These therapies are often used alongside medication as part of a broader care plan.
Simple adjustments at home can help your dog feel more comfortable.
For example:
Providing soft bedding
Using ramps instead of jumps
Keeping floors non-slip
The cost of managing arthritis can vary depending on your dog’s needs and the type of treatment required.
Diagnosis: £100 to £450
Monthly treatment: £40 to £200
Annual costs: £600 to £3,000
Lifetime costs: £2,000 to £12,000
Some dogs may only need ongoing medication and lifestyle adjustments, while others may require more regular treatment or specialist therapies.
These costs can vary depending on the level of care required.
If you’re looking at how ongoing care may be supported, it can help to understand what dog insurance covers. If arthritis has already developed then it is very unlikely any new insurance would cover treatment, so consider insurance when your dog is young to protect them through their life.
Arthritis is a long-term condition that often requires ongoing care. If arthritis has already developed then a new policy from Purely Pets would not cover the cost of care as we do not offer cover for pre-existing conditions.
If you pet has not developed symptoms dog insurance policies from Purely Pets can help with:
Vet consultations
Diagnostic tests
Medication
Ongoing treatment
However, it’s helpful to understand that:
Arthritis is usually only covered if it develops after the policy starts
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded
Cover is subject to policy limits and excesses
For long-term conditions, lifetime insurance policies can provide cover that continues each year, as long as the policy is renewed.
If your dog is older, you may also want to explore insurance for older and senior dogs.
Arthritis can affect how your dog moves and behaves, but with the right care, many dogs continue to enjoy their daily routines.
You may find it helpful to adapt their routine over time, for example by:
Adjusting exercise
Making small changes at home
Attending regular vet check-ups
Arthritis is also one of several conditions that can affect older pets. Ongoing lifetime support can help your dog stay comfortable as their needs change.
Arthritis in dogs is a common condition, particularly as they age. While it can affect mobility and comfort, there are many ways to manage it.
Recognising the early signs, understanding treatment options and being aware of the potential costs that come with your dog having a pre-existing condition, can help you support your dog throughout their life.
To get a dog insurance quote for your beloved pet you can get a quote through our website. If you would like to talk to one of our dog insurance team, you can get in touch with us on 0330 102 5748.
No, arthritis cannot be cured, but it can often be managed to improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.
Arthritis is more common in older dogs but can affect dogs at any age depending on factors such as injury or joint conditions.
Signs can include stiffness, limping, reduced activity and behavioural changes such as irritability.
Monthly costs typically range from £40 to £200, depending on treatment and severity.
Depending on the policy and when the condition develops, dog insurance may help with eligible costs associated with diagnosing and treating arthritis.
Cover is subject to policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions. However, if it is a pre-existing condition it will not be covered by our insurance policies.
