Arthritis in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Cost

By the Pawlee Team

Diagnosis cost

£150–£400

Treatment cost

£200–£800

Ongoing cost

£50–£150 per month

Severity

Moderate

Treatable

Manageable

Species

Dogs

What is arthritis?

Arthritis (osteoarthritis) is a degenerative joint condition that causes chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It affects up to 80% of dogs over eight years old and is one of the most common reasons for veterinary visits in the UK. The cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time, leading to inflammation, bone-on-bone contact, and progressive discomfort. While it cannot be cured, arthritis can usually be well managed with a combination of medication, weight control, and lifestyle changes.

Symptoms to watch for

See a vet soon

Stiffness when getting up, especially after rest
Reluctance to walk, climb stairs, or jump into the car
Lagging behind on walks or tiring more quickly
Licking or chewing at joints
Visible swelling around affected joints
Changes in temperament, such as irritability when touched
Difficulty getting into a comfortable sleeping position
Muscle wasting around affected limbs

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Test	Typical cost
Consultation and physical examination	£35–£65
X-rays of affected joints	£150–£300
Blood tests (to check suitability for long-term medication)	£80–£150

Treatment options and costs

Anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief

£30–£80 per month ongoing

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as meloxicam or carprofen form the cornerstone of arthritis management. Often combined with paracetamol or gabapentin for additional pain control. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor liver and kidney function.

Joint supplements and supportive therapies

£20–£60 per month ongoing

Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements can help support joint health. Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy are increasingly popular and can improve mobility and muscle strength without stressing the joints.

Monoclonal antibody therapy (Librela)

£60–£100 per monthly injection

Bedinvetmab (Librela) is a monthly injection that targets nerve growth factor to reduce pain. It has become a popular alternative for dogs that cannot tolerate NSAIDs or need additional pain relief. Administered at the veterinary practice as a monthly injection.

Ongoing costs

Estimated ongoing management cost

£50–£150 per month

monthly

Breeds most at risk

Breed	Risk level
Labrador Retriever	High
Golden Retriever	High
German Shepherd	High
Rottweiler	High
Springer Spaniel	Moderate
Cocker Spaniel	Moderate
Border Collie	Moderate

Does pet insurance cover arthritis?

Arthritis is covered by most lifetime pet insurance policies as long as it is not a pre-existing condition at the time of policy inception. Because arthritis requires ongoing treatment, lifetime policies are strongly recommended over time-limited or maximum-benefit policies, which cap coverage after 12 months or a fixed amount. Insurers will usually cover the cost of medication, diagnostic imaging, and sometimes hydrotherapy or physiotherapy. Joint supplements may or may not be covered depending on the policy. Dogs with a history of joint problems such as hip dysplasia may find related arthritis claims excluded.

Related conditions

Hip Dysplasia Dogs Cruciate Ligament Disease Dogs

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to manage arthritis in dogs long-term?

Ongoing management typically costs £50–£150 per month, depending on the size of the dog and the combination of treatments used. This includes anti-inflammatory medication (£30–£80/month), joint supplements (£15–£40/month), and potentially monthly Librela injections (£60–£100). Over a dog's lifetime, total arthritis costs can easily reach £5,000–£15,000.

At what age do dogs typically develop arthritis?

Most dogs show signs from around 7–8 years of age, but dogs with pre-existing joint problems such as hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament disease, or joint injuries can develop arthritis much earlier. Large and giant breeds are often affected younger than small breeds.

Can exercise help a dog with arthritis?

Yes, but it needs to be the right type of exercise. Regular, gentle, low-impact exercise such as short lead walks and swimming helps maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility. Avoid sudden bursts of activity, ball-chasing, or long hikes. Consistency is key — little and often is better than occasional long walks.

Is Librela safe for dogs?

Librela (bedinvetmab) has been widely used in the UK since 2021 and is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and include injection-site reactions and occasional urinary tract infections. It offers a good alternative for dogs that cannot take traditional anti-inflammatory medication. Your vet can advise whether it is appropriate for your dog.