Chronic Inflammation and How to Reverse It in Aging Dogs

Chronic inflammation in older dogs is not just about stiff joints. It is a whole-body shift in how the immune system behaves, often called “inflammaging” in veterinary research. This low grade, long term inflammation is linked with many age related diseases, from arthritis and kidney problems to cognitive decline.

Before we dive in, one key reminder: any change to your dog’s diet, supplements, or medications should be discussed with your dog’s veterinarian first. This article can guide your questions, but it is not a substitute for personalized veterinary care.

What is chronic inflammation in aging dogs?

Inflammation itself is not bad. It is the body’s emergency response to infection or injury.

• Acute inflammation is short lived. Think of a swollen paw that improves after a few days.
• Chronic inflammation is different. The inflammatory response stays “turned on” at a low level for weeks, months, or years, even when there is no obvious injury.

In older dogs, veterinarians and researchers describe a pattern of chronic, low grade inflammation associated with aging. This is often called inflammaging. It involves increased levels of inflammatory signaling molecules (cytokines and chemokines) circulating in the blood, which can influence organs like the kidneys, joints, and brain.

Early studies suggest that this chronic inflammatory state may:

• Worsen osteoarthritis and joint pain
• Contribute to chronic kidney disease
• Play a role in cognitive decline and behavior changes in senior dogs

However, research in dogs is still limited, and much of what we believe about inflammaging comes from human studies and small canine trials. Researchers are actively trying to identify reliable biomarkers of inflammation in dogs of different ages, and not all studies agree on how these markers change with age.

Why older dogs are more vulnerable

Several changes happen in the aging canine immune system:

• The adaptive immune system (T and B cells) becomes less efficient.
• Parts of the innate immune system stay very active, or even become overactive.
• Cells that should quietly retire can instead develop a “senescence associated secretory phenotype”, releasing inflammatory molecules over time.

Lifestyle and health factors can amplify this low grade inflammation in senior dogs:

• Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen
• Longstanding dental disease
• Chronic joint disease
• Poor quality diet or unbalanced home cooked diets
• Low activity levels and stress

Important nuance: while scientists agree that chronic inflammation is common in older dogs, the exact cause and effect relationships are still being clarified. Some dogs with high inflammatory markers remain relatively healthy, and others develop disease with only mild measurable changes.

Conditions commonly linked with chronic inflammation

Chronic inflammation is not a diagnosis on its own. It usually shows up as part of other conditions, especially in senior dogs. Some of the most important ones are:

Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)

• One of the most common chronic inflammatory conditions in older dogs
• Involves ongoing inflammation inside the joint, cartilage breakdown, and pain
• Extra body weight and previous injuries increase the risk

Periodontal (dental) disease

Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place. It is extremely common in adult dogs and becomes more severe with age. Estimates suggest 80 to 90 percent of dogs over 3 years old have some degree of periodontal disease, which often worsens in senior years.

This ongoing oral inflammation is now recognized as a potential driver of systemic inflammation, with links to heart, kidney, and liver disease in dogs.

Chronic kidney disease

Inflammation is both a cause and a consequence of kidney damage. Chronic kidney disease is common in older dogs, and inflammatory cytokines appear to be involved in the progression of kidney injury in aging animals.

Skin disease and allergies

Chronic dermatitis, environmental allergies, and food responsive disease keep the immune system activated for long periods. This can add to the background inflammatory burden.

Cognitive decline and behavior changes

Inflammation that affects the brain can contribute to “sickness behavior” (sleep changes, decreased appetite, low mood) and is suspected to play a role in canine cognitive dysfunction.

Subtle signs that might suggest chronic inflammation

Chronic inflammation often creeps in gradually. Dogs rarely show one clear sign. Instead, you may see a cluster of subtle changes over time, such as:

• Stiffness or limping, especially when getting up or after resting
• Slower walks, reluctance to jump, or hesitation on stairs
• Behavior shifts, like irritability, restlessness, or decreased interest in play
• Changes in sleep pattern, pacing at night, or appearing confused in familiar places
• Recurrent digestive upsets, soft stools, or vomiting
• Persistent skin issues or recurrent ear infections
• Bad breath, red gums, or difficulty chewing

None of these signs prove that chronic inflammation is present, and they can also indicate other diseases. Any ongoing change in your dog’s comfort, behavior, or mobility deserves a visit with your veterinarian.

How veterinarians investigate chronic inflammation

There is currently no single, universal blood test that says “this dog has inflammaging”. Instead, veterinarians combine history, examination, and targeted tests.

A typical work up may include:

1. Detailed history and physical exam
   • Weight trends over the years
   • Activity level, mobility, appetite, thirst, urination, behavior
   • Full body and joint exam, dental exam, skin and ear check
2. Laboratory testing
   • Complete blood count and chemistry profile
   • Urinalysis
   • In some cases, markers of inflammation such as C reactive protein (CRP) or serum amyloid A, although their use in routine practice is still evolving.
3. Imaging and targeted tests
   • X rays for osteoarthritis or suspected organ disease
   • Dental radiographs under anesthesia to evaluate periodontal disease
   • Abdominal ultrasound or further specialty testing if organ damage is suspected

Researchers are working to identify reliable biomarkers of inflammaging in dogs, but so far, results have been mixed and based on relatively small groups of animals.

Can chronic inflammation be reversed in older dogs?

“Reversed” can be a bit misleading. In most senior dogs, the goal is to reduce the inflammatory burden and slow or partially reverse its effects, rather than restore the body to a “never aged” state.

Recent veterinary reviews emphasize that aging itself is modifiable, and that many age related conditions in dogs involve chronic inflammation that can be improved with targeted management.

In practice, that means:

• Treating or removing sources of chronic inflammation
• Supporting joints, organs, and brain health
• Adjusting lifestyle factors like diet, weight, and activity

Results vary from dog to dog, and solid, long term clinical trials in senior dogs are still limited. But there is enough evidence to say that many dogs feel better and stay functional longer when inflammation is thoughtfully managed.

Strategy 1: Get to a healthy body weight

Excess body fat is not just “extra padding”. Fat tissue actively releases inflammatory molecules that worsen conditions like osteoarthritis and can contribute to metabolic and hormonal issues.

Several studies have shown that weight loss in obese dogs with osteoarthritis improves lameness and mobility and can reduce markers of systemic stress.

Practical steps to discuss with your veterinarian:

• Calculating your dog’s ideal body weight and body condition score
• Moving to a calorie controlled, complete diet rather than simply “cutting food in half”
• Choosing a therapeutic weight loss diet that supports joints with added omega 3s and controlled calories
• Scheduling regular weight checks every 2 to 4 weeks

Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce strain on joints and may lower overall inflammation.

Strategy 2: Feed for joint and anti inflammatory support

Diet is one of the most powerful tools you and your veterinarian control together. While no single diet has been proven to “cure” inflammaging, certain patterns are supported by research.

Omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)

Multiple randomized, controlled trials have shown that diets enriched with omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil can improve clinical signs of osteoarthritis in dogs, including lameness scores and owner assessed mobility.

These fatty acids help by:

• Competing with omega 6 fatty acids and shifting the balance toward less inflammatory eicosanoids
• Potentially lowering inflammatory cytokine activity within joints

However:

• Not all products are equal in quality or dose.
• High doses can have side effects in some dogs.
• Most trials are relatively short term, so long term effects in very old dogs are still being studied.

Always ask your veterinarian before starting omega 3 supplements, especially if your dog has pancreatitis, bleeding disorders, or is on multiple medications.

Therapeutic and senior diets

Prescription and specialized senior diets may include:

• Controlled calories and higher protein to preserve muscle
• Omega 3 enrichment
• Antioxidants such as vitamin E and certain plant compounds
• Joint support ingredients in some formulas

Evidence varies between products, and not every senior dog needs a prescription diet. Nonetheless, vet guided diet choice is one of the most practical ways to support lower inflammation over time.

Strategy 3: Gentle, regular movement and physical therapy

Movement is one of the most reliable ways to reduce joint stiffness and maintain muscle in older dogs. In osteoarthritis, controlled exercise and physical rehabilitation can:

• Improve range of motion and strength
• Help with weight management
• Support circulation and mental health

Study designs differ, but low impact exercise combined with weight loss and medical management repeatedly shows better outcomes than medication alone in osteoarthritic dogs.

Examples of vet approved activity for many senior dogs:

• Short, frequent walks on soft surfaces
• Underwater treadmill or swimming in a controlled rehab setting
• Simple home exercises prescribed by a rehab trained veterinarian

Avoid suddenly increasing exercise or high impact activities without veterinary guidance, especially if your dog already has joint disease or heart problems.

Strategy 4: Thoughtful pain and inflammation control (medications)

For many senior dogs, especially those with arthritis, medication is essential for quality of life. The most commonly used class is veterinary nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Veterinary approved NSAIDs can:

• Reduce joint pain and inflammation
• Improve mobility and general comfort
• Help dogs maintain an active lifestyle

However, they are not risk free. Possible side effects include:

• Vomiting, diarrhea, black or bloody stool
• Loss of appetite or lethargy
• Kidney or liver damage in some dogs, especially with improper dosing or in dogs with pre existing disease

Key safety points:

• Only use veterinary prescribed NSAIDs and follow dosing directions exactly.
• Human pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, and many over the counter “arthritis” tablets can be very dangerous for dogs.
• Your veterinarian should run bloodwork before and during long term NSAID use.
• Report behavior changes, reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased drinking and urination immediately.

Other medications and therapies, such as gabapentin, amantadine, injectable joint therapies, or monoclonal antibodies for pain, may be added when appropriate. Evidence is growing, but for many of these tools long term data in very old dogs is still relatively limited.

Strategy 5: Tackle dental disease as a chronic inflammatory source

Because periodontal disease is both extremely common and chronically inflammatory, treating dental disease is one of the most impactful ways to lower whole body inflammation in many older dogs.

Studies show:

• 80 to 90 percent of dogs over 3 years have some degree of periodontal disease, and prevalence rises with age.
• Periodontal disease is associated with increased markers of systemic inflammation, and has documented links to heart, kidney, and liver disease.

What that means clinically:

• Professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, with radiographs, is usually needed to fully assess and treat disease.
• Advanced cases may require extractions and long term home care to prevent recurrence.
• Daily or near daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for prevention once your vet has your dog’s mouth healthy.

Many owners worry about anesthesia in older dogs. This is a valid concern, and your veterinarian will weigh the risks and benefits based on current health and lab work. For many seniors, treating painful, infected teeth actually improves overall comfort and can reduce a significant source of chronic inflammation.

Strategy 6: Environment, stress, and brain health

Inflammation is not only about joints, teeth, and kidneys. Stress and poor mental stimulation have also been linked with increased inflammatory markers and cognitive decline in aging dogs.

Helpful, vet friendly approaches:

• Predictable daily routine with gentle transitions
• Environmental enrichment: food puzzles, scent games, appropriate social interaction
• Comfortable sleeping areas and flooring that provides traction
• Addressing anxiety or noise phobias, which can increase stress hormones and indirectly promote inflammation

If you notice signs of cognitive decline (getting stuck in corners, waking at night, staring at walls, changes in interaction), speak to your veterinarian. There are diets, supplements, and medications aimed at brain health, although long term evidence is still developing.

Strategy 7: Supplements and nutraceuticals

The supplement market for senior dogs is huge, but not all products have strong evidence behind them. Some that currently have at least modest research support include:

• Omega 3 fatty acids, discussed earlier, for joint health
• Certain joint supplements that combine ingredients like eggshell membrane, krill derived omega 3s, hyaluronic acid, Boswellia, and antioxidants have shown improvement in pain scores and mobility in some controlled trials of osteoarthritic dogs.

Important caveats:

• Many studies are short term (usually 1 to 3 months) and involve relatively small numbers of dogs.
• Products used in studies may not match commercial formulas sold under similar names.
• Supplements can interact with medications or cause side effects in dogs with liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal disease.

Because of this, supplements should always be chosen and dosed in consultation with your dog’s veterinarian, especially for senior dogs with multiple health issues.

What we still do not know

Even though research has expanded rapidly in the last few years, there are still important gaps:

• We do not have a single, standardized lab test to diagnose inflammaging in dogs.
• It is still unclear which inflammatory markers best predict future disease or survival in individual dogs.
• Some studies find clear age related increases in inflammatory markers, while others find more complex patterns or no significant trend.
• Large, long term interventional trials that focus specifically on reducing inflammation in senior dogs and then tracking lifespan and quality of life are still relatively rare.

Because of these limitations, most current recommendations focus on controlling known sources of inflammation and supporting overall health, rather than chasing a perfect numerical “inflammation score.”

Bringing it together: a practical plan to discuss with your veterinarian

If you are worried about chronic inflammation in your aging dog, here is a simple, vet friendly way to start:

1. Schedule a senior checkup
   • Ask for a focused discussion on weight, mobility, dental health, and behavior.
2. Request baseline labs (if not already done recently)
   • Bloodwork and urinalysis, with additional tests based on your dog’s history.
3. Prioritize weight and diet
   • Work with your veterinarian to set a realistic weight goal and choose a diet that supports joints and body condition.
4. Address obvious inflammatory sources
   • Osteoarthritis, dental disease, chronic skin or ear problems, poorly controlled allergies.
5. Build a safe movement plan
   • Gentle daily exercise, rehabilitation if needed, and home modifications for comfort.
6. Review medications and supplements together
   • Go through every product your dog receives and confirm that it is needed, appropriate, and dosed correctly.
7. Monitor and adjust
   • Rechecks every few months allow you and your veterinarian to tweak the plan based on how your dog is actually feeling and functioning.

Throughout this process, remember that quality of life matters most. In many cases, thoughtfully managing chronic inflammation lets older dogs stay active, comfortable, and engaged with their families for longer.

And one final time, because it is that important: always discuss changes with your dog’s veterinarian, who knows your dog’s full medical history and can tailor these ideas to your individual pet.

Sources and further reading

• McCleary-Wheeler AL et al. Immunosenescence and Inflammaging in Dogs and Cats: A Narrative Review. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2024.(Wiley Online Library)
• Creevy KE et al. Aging is modifiable: current perspectives on healthy aging in companion animals. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2025.(AVMA Journals)
• Piotti P et al. Inflammation and behavior changes in dogs and cats: a review. 2023 preprint.(vetsmall.theclinics.com)
• Kearsley-Fleet L et al. The companion dog as a model for inflammaging: a cross sectional pilot study. GeroScience, 2024.(SpringerLink)
• Various authors. Studies on weight loss and osteoarthritis in obese dogs.(SpringerLink)
• Hahn KA et al. and others. Trials of omega 3 enriched diets for canine osteoarthritis.(AVMA Journals)
• FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine. Controlling Pain and Inflammation in Your Dog with NSAIDs.(U.S. Food and Drug Administration)
• PetMD. NSAIDs for Dogs: Everything You Need to Know.(PetMD)
• MSD Veterinary Manual and AVMA sources on periodontal disease and systemic impacts.(MSD Veterinary Manual)
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Periodontal disease overview.(Cornell Vet College)