I'm not a vet, but my Merck Veterinary Manual does list ibuprofen as an analgesic for dogs. Dosage 5 to 10 mg/kg, once or twice per day as needed.

Note that the section that lists "common medications" does not go into detail about possible side effects or effectiveness for a particular problem. It merely lists the drug with a "common dose." It also lists aspirin, which most veterinarians rather strongly discourage using as a home medication in dogs.

A significant question is whether it's appropriate for long term use, or is included only for short term or occasional treatment.

Metacam isn't listed in any of my refs, so I can't look at whether it's a "same class of" or something else.

John