Which dog food is best for arthritis?

Written by Indy | July 28, 2025

Many dogs develop arthritis during their lifetime. And it's not just older dogs – young dogs can be affected too. Can you support a dog with arthritis through special dog food? We'll explain!

Two dogs are happily running side by side

To explain whether special dog food can support your dog with osteoarthritis, you first need to understand what osteoarthritis is.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is inflammation caused by joint wear and tear. A joint consists of two bones that move against each other. The ends of these bones are covered with a smooth layer of cartilage, allowing for easy movement. The bones are enclosed in a joint capsule, and between them lies the synovial fluid. This fluid nourishes the cartilage, as cartilage has no blood supply. In addition, synovial fluid provides lubrication.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the joint becomes damaged. This triggers an inflammatory response in the joint, altering the composition of the synovial fluid. As a result, the cartilage receives less nourishment and lubrication decreases, leading to further cartilage wear. This creates a vicious cycle.

If the inflammation in the joint persists, the joint capsule will eventually thicken, and bony growths will form at the edges of the joint. This process cannot be stopped—only slowed down.

How does arthritis develop?

Arthritis is caused by overloading the joints. That’s why we often see it in older dogs and dogs that are overweight. But young dogs can also develop arthritis. Think of breeds that are prone to developmental disorders, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and osteochondrosis. Dogs that are physically challenged through work or sport are also more likely to develop arthritis.

Where does arthritis occur in dogs?

Arthritis can occur in all joints. In dogs, it is commonly seen in the hips, knees and elbows — but also in the spine and toes. With arthritis, the joints become swollen and warm due to inflammation and increased joint fluid. How can you recognise arthritis in your dog?

A dog with arthritis is in pain. You’ll notice it in the way they move and behave. These are some of the signs you might observe:

Your dog is less eager to go for walks
Your dog walks more slowly and lies down or sits more quickly
Your dog struggles to get up or lie down — some dogs drop themselves to the ground
Your dog seems stiff, but improves after walking for a bit
Your dog is limping
Your dog may react to being touched

Do you suspect your dog has arthritis? Then have them examined by your vet.

How can you help your dog with arthritis?

Arthritis is very painful for your dog. And we know it can’t be cured. What you can do is slow the progression and try to reduce the inflammation.
This often involves pain relief prescribed by the vet — possibly combined with supplements and supportive food. An orthopaedic dog bed can also be very helpful for dogs with painful joints.

In the early stages of arthritis — before your dog shows clear symptoms — supplements and special food can already make a difference. Below, we explain how a veterinary diet can help support your dog with arthritis.

Which dog food is best for arthritis?

For dogs with arthritis or those prone to it, special diets have been developed to offer maximum support. There are many brands offering joint-supporting food, and they often share the following key features:

High levels of omega-3 fatty acids to ease pain and inflammation
High levels of vitamin E to support the fatty acid content
Added glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate as essential building blocks for joint cartilage, collagen and joint fluid

Many diets also include additional ingredients and herbs for extra support — such as green-lipped mussel, hyaluronic acid, MSM, vitamin C, devil’s claw, blackcurrant, turmeric and boswellia serrata. These substances can have a positive effect on inflammation and pain. Since arthritis is often caused or worsened by being overweight, many of these diets also consider weight management. They typically contain fewer calories and include L-carnitine to support fat metabolism.

Examples of veterinary diets for arthritis include:

Combination diets for arthritis and weight management include:

Talk to your vet to find out whether a veterinary diet for arthritis is the best choice for your dog. This type of food typically takes several weeks to reach full effect. If it works well, it can be fed long-term.

Still have questions about food to support arthritis? Feel free to contact veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.