Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
Most large dogs develop arthritis as they age. Although there are no miracle cures, much can be done to make pets with arthritis more comfortable and improve their lives.
Soft comfortable place to sleep
Your dog's bed should be as comfortable as your own. An old mattress or soft couch is excellent. Soft foam rubber at least four inches thick is good. Scout around for an old baby mattress.
Gentle, regular exercise
Provide limited, gentle exercise. Once around the block two or three times a day is about right. Avoid strenuous activity on the weekends alternating with little or none during the week.
Weight control
Older large-breed dogs often tend to be overweight. This discourages them from getting the exercise they need and aggravates their arthritis. The more weight on those poor old joints, the harder it is to move around. Any "light" diet is helpful.
Promote joint health
There are dozens of products for animals intended to relieve arthritis by promoting joint and cartilage health. Their active ingredients usually include glucosamine, chondroitin or perna caniculus, sometimes creatine, and often an assortment of miscellaneous vitamins and minerals. Their use has become nearly universal among veterinarians, no safety problems have arisen, and they are generally quite effective. In our opinion, every dog showing even the earliest signs of arthritis should be receiving one of these products. They work best in the early stages of arthritis, while there is still reasonable joint function left to preserve. For more information about these nutraceuticals, see "Glucosamine and Other Nutraceuticals for Arthritis in Dogs".
Relieve pain and inflammation
Although dogs are often more prone to side effects, some of the same drugs used for pain control in people can be helpful:
Aspirin
Buffered aspirin is a safe and useful drug, although prolonged use can cause problems. For occasional use, aspirin is perfectly ok. A large (60 to 70 lb.) dog would get ½ of 5 grain (325 mgm) tablet three times a day, or 1 tablet morning and night.
