Arthritis can be devastating for people. But numerous dogs also suffer from this debilitating condition as well. They may feel pain or soreness in their joints, and they might not move around as ably as they did when they were younger. Here's the good news: there are some medications on the market which can treat canine arthritis and improve your pup's quality of life.

Some pet owners might be hesitant to give drugs to their furry friends. If your pup's arthritic symptoms are minor, then forgoing medication might be an option. But your dog might need arthritis medicine if you notice any of these signs:

Limping or lameness
Stiffness
Decreased joint movement
Decreased exercise or activity levels
Reluctance to run, jump, climb stairs or stand
Difficulty running, jumping, climbing stairs or standing
Here is a list of medicines which can help arthritic dogs.
Adequan Canine
Unlike many arthritis medications, this is an injectable medicine which is designed to be directly administered in the muscles where your dog is experiencing discomfort. Generally, a dose is given every three to five days to help control the pain and discomfort associated with non-infectious degenerative arthritis or traumatic arthritis that is present in your dog's synovial joints. The generic name for this drug is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan.

Adequan canine is classified as a Disease-Modifying Osteoarthritis Drug (DMOAD). It works by inhibiting cartilage destruction and diminishing any inflammation that is affecting your dog's joints. The medicine is packaged in multiple dose vials, which are usually sold in pairs.
Deramaxx
This drug, also known as deracoxib, is an easy-to-administer chewable tablet which can be given to your pup one or more times per day, depending on your veterinarian's instructions. Unlike Adequan Canine, Deramaxx is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which is designed to reduce inflammation and pain in dogs who suffer from osteoarthritis.

Many dogs respond dramatically to this treatment. Also, the Deramaxx tablets are flavored, so your pup is more likely to gobble it out of your hand or from its bowl. The medicine is available in strengths of 25mg, 75mg and 100mg in 7, 30 or 90-count bottles.
Novox and Rimadyl
These medicines are packaged either in a chewable tablet form or a caplet for easier swallowing. Either one can be given to your dog once per day or more frequently if necessary.