Arthritis in Giant Breeds: What Owners Need to Know

One of the hardest parts of loving a giant breed is watching them slow down. Maybe they hesitate before standing, take the stairs more carefully, or aren't as eager for the long walks they used to love.

Sometimes that's normal aging. Often, arthritis is playing a role. For the bigger picture on protecting movement, see our giant breed joint health guide.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation and degeneration within a joint. The most common form in dogs is osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease. Healthy joints have smooth cartilage that lets bones glide comfortably; over time that cartilage wears down, which can affect movement, comfort, and function. It's generally progressive, meaning changes tend to accumulate.

Why Giant Breeds Are at Higher Risk

Big dogs aren't born with arthritis, but they're at elevated risk over their lifetimes. Their size and weight place significant force on joints with every step, and conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, previous injuries, and simple aging all raise the odds. Arthritis is one of the most frequently diagnosed chronic conditions in dogs overall — the American College of Veterinary Surgeons estimates osteoarthritis affects roughly 20% of dogs over a year of age, with prevalence climbing in older and larger dogs. Other statistics indicate that 80% of dogs over the age of 8 will face arthritis.

Signs of Arthritis in Giant Breeds

Arthritis develops gradually, so changes are easy to miss. Watch for:

• Difficulty standing up, especially after rest
• Slower movement and taking longer to get going
• Hesitation on stairs
• Reluctance to jump onto vehicles or furniture
• Sleeping more and moving less
• Stiffness or a shortened, uneven gait
• Becoming more withdrawn or less interested in play

How It's Diagnosed

Veterinarians diagnose arthritis through a physical exam, medical history, X-rays, and mobility assessment. Early evaluation matters, because many dogs show subtle signs long before owners realize mobility is changing.

Managing Arthritis

Arthritis can't be reversed, but there's a lot you can do to support comfort and quality of life:

• Maintain a healthy weight — often the most impactful factor; every extra pound adds stress to already hard-working joints
• Preserve muscle — strong muscles stabilize joints; here's why muscle matters more than most owners realize
• Encourage appropriate exercise — consistent, low-impact movement over intense bursts
• Improve traction at home — rugs and runners help on slippery floors
• Work with your veterinarian — on the right management plan for your dog

What About Joint Supplements?

Many owners include joint supplements as part of a comprehensive mobility plan. Joint supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, including arthritis — they're intended to support normal joint function and overall wellness. To understand the ingredients, see our guide on what to look for in a giant breed supplement. Always discuss any supplement with your veterinarian.

The Bottom Line

Arthritis is one of the most common mobility challenges giant breeds face as they age. Understanding the early signs and taking a proactive approach can help support quality of life throughout the aging process — because every comfortable walk and easy stand-up matters.

References

American College of Veterinary Surgeons — Osteoarthritis
https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/osteoarthritis/

American Animal Hospital Association — Pain Management Guidelines
https://www.aaha.org/resources/2022-aaha-pain-management-guidelines-for-dogs-and-cats/