My Dog Was Diagnosed with Arthritis at Just Four Years Old – What I Learned as a Canine Rehab Professional (and How You Can Help Your Dog Too)

When you picture arthritis in dogs, you probably imagine a slow-moving, grey-muzzled senior who’s enjoyed a long life chasing balls and lounging in the sun. That’s exactly what I thought too… until my own dog, Rio, was diagnosed with arthritis in her knee at just four years old.

I still remember the moment she changed. She didn't want to jump up on the couch anymore, and leaping into the car seemed tougher. Then one night mid-winter, she couldn't get up off her bed. As a canine massage therapist and rehab professional, my gut told me this was more than a minor tweak.

After vet visits, X-rays, and honest conversations, the diagnosis came: canine osteoarthritis in her stifle (knee joint). She was so young. I felt helpless, guilty, and determined all at once.

Rio was diagnosed with arthritis at age 4

What Is Canine Arthritis?

Arthritis in dogs is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It can happen to any dog, young or old, and in any joint. Common causes include genetics, injuries (like ligament tears), joint dysplasia, or simply wear and tear.

As both a dog mum and a qualified canine health professional, I’ve seen how arthritis often creeps in quietly:

• Stiffness after resting

• Slowing down on walks

• Limping or favouring a leg

• Struggling with stairs, cars, or the couch

• Changes in mood or reluctance to play

The key is: arthritis doesn’t only affect older dogs. The earlier we start managing it, the more comfort and mobility our dogs can keep for years to come.

My Turning Point – From Panic to a Plan

I’ll be honest — even with my professional training, my first reaction was sadness. I wanted a quick fix. But the truth is, arthritis isn’t something we “cure.” It’s something we actively manage with consistent, targeted care.

That’s where my rehab background came in. I had the knowledge, tools, and hands-on skills to build my dog a tailored plan, to build strength, support the joints, and slow down the progression. I saw her regain confidence in her movement, reduce stiffness, and still enjoy her favourite adventures.

Now, I use that same approach with my clients to help their dogs stay strong, mobile, and happy despite arthritis.

5 Things I Recommend for Managing Arthritis in Dogs

Here’s what has made the biggest difference in my dog’s life and for the many arthritic dogs I’ve worked with:

1. Gentle, Consistent Movement - Muscles are your dog’s best natural joint support. Controlled walks, balance work, and gentle strength exercises help keep joints stable.(In my 6-Week Mobility Masterplan, I teach the exact low-impact exercises I use with my clients.)

   
   

2. Weight Management - Every extra kilo adds pressure to sore joints. Keeping your dog at a lean, healthy weight is one of the most powerful things you can do.

   
   

3. Supportive Home Environment

   • Non-slip mats

   • Ramps instead of stairs

   • Orthopaedic beds for joint support

     
     

4. Pain Relief & Therapies - Don’t wait until your dog is limping badly to seek help. Pain management, canine massage, laser therapy, and other modalities can dramatically improve comfort.

   
   

5. Ongoing Monitoring - Track mobility changes so you can adapt your dog’s care as needed. This is exactly why I created my free checklist - so owners can spot small changes before they become big setbacks.

   
   

Your Free 2 Minute Comfort Checklist for Arthritic Dogs

When my dog was first diagnosed, even as a professional, I wanted something simple to keep me on track. That’s why I created the Free 2 Minute Comfort Checklist for Arthritic Dogs - a quick, clear tool to help you:

✅ Spot early warning signs

✅ Track mobility week by week

✅ Make easy at-home adjustments

✅ Know when to involve your vet or rehab professional

Download the Free Checklist Here

And don’t forget – we also have a completely free Facebook community with over 16,000 dog lovers, all dedicated to caring for senior dogs and those with arthritis. It’s a safe, supportive space to share tips, celebrate wins, and get advice from people who truly understand.

👉 Join the free Senior Dog Community here.

Join the Free Community Here

If your dog has been diagnosed with arthritis, please know you can make a difference and you do have support 💛

With the right knowledge, a consistent plan, and a little creativity, arthritis doesn’t have to mean a slow decline, it can be the start of a new, more mindful chapter with your dog.

Start today: Download the free checklist, take one small action, and watch your dog’s mobility and happiness grow.

Got questions? We love to talk about dogs - send us a message here