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Arthritis pain is very treatable in dogs, and modern medications have made a big difference to many older dogs’ quality of life. This overview explains the main options your vet may discuss. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice: every medication below must be prescribed and monitored by your vet, and doses are never one-size-fits-all.
Never give human pain relievers
Ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin and acetaminophen (paracetamol) can cause serious stomach ulcers, kidney or liver damage in dogs, and some can be fatal. Only give medications your vet has prescribed for your dog.
Main types of arthritis medication
| Type | Examples | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Dog-specific NSAIDs | Carprofen, meloxicam, deracoxib, firocoxib, grapiprant | Reduce pain and inflammation; the most common first-line treatment |
| Monthly anti-NGF injection | Bedinvetmab (Librela) | A monthly injection given at the vet that targets a key pain signal in osteoarthritis |
| Add-on pain medications | Gabapentin, amantadine | Often added when NSAIDs alone are not enough, or for dogs that cannot take NSAIDs |
| Joint injections | Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (Adequan), joint-directed treatments | Aim to support the joint and reduce inflammation |
Availability and approval of specific products vary by country. Your vet will choose based on your dog’s health, other medications and test results.
Monitoring and side effects
Before and during long-term treatment, vets often recommend blood tests to check kidney and liver function. Call your vet if you notice:
- Vomiting, diarrhea or black, tarry stools
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst or urination
- Lethargy or behavior changes
- Yellowing of the gums or eyes
Medication works best with a full plan
- Weight management
- Regular, gentle exercise and physical therapy
- Omega-3 fatty acids (see supplements)
- Home changes: ramps, rugs and a supportive bed
Questions to ask your vet
- Which medication do you recommend for my dog, and why?
- What side effects should I watch for?
- How often should we do blood tests?
- Can we combine medication with supplements or physical therapy?
- What should we try if this does not work well enough?
Related: dog arthritis and natural pain relief.
Last reviewed: November 2026. Prices and specifications change; check the retailer before you buy.