Arthritis in Dogs



Are you looking for pain relief for your dogs?  Learn how to identify arthritis in dogs.  How does arthritis strike dogs?

Signs of Arthritis in dogs

Arthritis does not discriminate. It affects people of all ages and our furry friends.  As a dog owner you make sure your friend takes his heart-worm medicine, eats well, looks bright-eyed and playful and greets you when you come home.  You notice changes in mood and activity, so if your pet isn’t feeling his best you may suspect a cold or stomach virus – but it could be arthritis.  Arthritis affects one in five adult dogs in the US and is one of the most common sources of chronic pain that veterinarians treat.

Diagnosis

How do you know if your dog has joint pain and if it’s arthritis?  Your dog can’t explain what’s wrong with him, so it’s important to watch his non-verbal cues closely and take even subtle changes seriously.  Signs that your dog may have arthritis:

  • Favoring one leg
  • Trouble sitting or standing
  • Excessive sleeping
  • Seeming to have sore or stiff joints
  • Trouble when jumping, running or climbing stairs
  • Weight gain
  • Less interest in play
  • Behavior or attitude changes
  • Less alert

Background of Arthritis 

Arthritis has been determined to be one of the oldest diseases in history and has been tracked back to the dinosaurs.  There is archeological evidence that dinosaurs had arthritis along with the early humans.  So it is reasonable that it is a common ailment in our best friend.

Older dogs are more likely to develop arthritis.  Overweight and inactive dogs are the most likely to have health issues. Arthritis is much like arthritis in humans.  It is a degenerative disease that causes stiffness in the joints and muscles.  The joints in older dogs have sustained substantial wear and tear over the years, but it can also be present in younger dogs if they have sustained leg damage.  Also, certain diseases and infections may result in arthritis.  One of these conditions is canine hip dysplasia and may leave your dog crippled.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is the deterioration of cartilage because of overuse.  In their senior years most dogs will be plagued with arthritis.

Causes of arthritis in dogs and dog  joint pain

  • Age
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Improper Nutrition
  • Poor Breading Practices
  • Injuries
  • Obesity

How to Help Prevent Arthritis in Dogs

  • Keep your pet active – regular exercise helps minimize arthritis in dogs
  • Watch your dog’s weight – being overweight puts a lot of strain on the joints
  • Make sure your dog is comfortable – a nice place to sleep with a soft mattress
  • Raise you dog’s food bowl – place the bowl so it is only a few inches below the neck
  • Help you dog get around – put up ramps where possible

Prevention is always better than a cure.  Safeguarding your pet’s health is the best way to fight arthritis in dogs and other similar diseases.  Older dogs need a lot more medical attention.  Dogs have a life span of around 15 years, so if you pet is 10 or older there is a high risk of arthritis.  As the guardian of you pet you should know the things you need to do to ensure that the disease and the pain will occur as rarely as possible.

Here is what Dr. Mark A. de Wolde has to say about understanding arthritis in dogs.