Dogs and humans alike suffer from arthritis. Typically, it affects older dogs, and some breeds are more susceptible than others. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage between the bones to break down quicker and the rubbing of the bones causes inflammation and pain. Any of the joints in the body can be affected by arthritis, but it is most common in the shoulders, elbows, knees or hips.
What Causes Arthritis in Dogs
In addition to old age, your dog may develop osteoarthritis due to the following factors:
- Overweight dogs have extra strain placed on their joints which increases their risk of developing osteoarthritis
- As mentioned, certain breeds are more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis. Larger breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are more prone to developing osteoarthritis
- Genetics also plays a part in whether or not a dog will develop arthritis
- If a dog sustains an injury, they can also be more prone to developing arthritis in the affected joint/s. This includes repetitive stress injuries that are common in dogs that participate in athletic activities such as flyball, dock diving or agility courses, or after injuries such as fractures or ligament tears
- Dogs that have joint deformities such as hip, knee or elbow dysplasia are also more prone to developing osteoarthritis
Symptoms and Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
The symptoms of early osteoarthritis may not be obvious until the joint becomes extremely painful. It is therefore important to keep up with regular vet visits, especially for dogs that are middle-aged to senior and for breeds that are more prone to developing arthritis. The following symptoms are common in dogs that are affected by osteoarthritis:
Difficulty getting up after laying down, seeming stiff
Slow to walk, reluctance to run, jump or play – general lethargy
Weight gain
Changes in behavior – biting or appearing to be in pain when touched
Trouble crouching to urinate or defecate – may have accidents in the house
Licking or growling at the affected joints
Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs
If your dog exhibits some of the above symptoms and you suspect arthritis, a veterinarian should be consulted who will perform a thorough examination to make a diagnosis. Your vet may order x-rays or other imaging to examine the degree of damage to the affected joints and formulate a treatment plan.
Dog Arthritis Treatment
Ensuring your furry friend is comfortable and healthy is no easy task. But luckily with a few simple tactics or treatments, you can improve your dogs arthritis and quality of life greatly.
How to Help a Dog With Arthritis at Home
Now that you have a diagnosis you may be wondering how to help a dog with arthritis at home. Well, there are a number of arthritis treatments for dogs that you can explore prior to any medication.
Weight and Diet Management
The first step you can take to relieve some of your dog's discomfort and pain if they are overweight and suffering from arthritis is to put them on a diet. This will reduce the weight and strain on their joints, improving not only their symptoms without the need for arthritis medication but also enhancing their quality of life by allowing for easier movement. If you’re looking fora guide on how to improve your dogs quality of life through health and wellness supplements then read our guide here.
Regular Exercise
You should also increase your dog's activity level to keep their joints and muscles in good shape. Keeping exercise levels moderately high is an essential step when evaluating arthritis treatment for dogs.
Changes Around the Home
Your arthritic dog can also benefit from some adjustments around the home. Providing them with a soft, yet supportive bed allows them to rest their weary joints comfortably. There are even specially designed orthopaedic dog beds made from memory foam that are extra supportive and comfortable. If your arthritic dog is a little unsteady on their feet, placing rugs or carpets on slippery floors and stairs can prevent them from sliding around. Your dog may also find a ramp or set of steps helpful when they want to climb up onto your couch or bed.
Professional Dog Arthritis Treatments
There are a number of arthritis treatments for dogs that you can explore prior to any medication.
Dog Arthritis Treatments - Prescription
An injection or medication may be prescribed by your veterinarian if your dog's arthritis is causing them considerable pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common medication prescribed to dogs with arthritis as it helps to relieve inflammation and pain.
Dog Arthritis Treatments - Non-Prescription
Green-lipped mussel, glucosamine and chondroitin are common ingredients in non-prescription medications that treat inflammation. Our most popular joint supplements are:
VetShop Max stocks an even wider range of anti arthritis and joint health supplements for your dog. You can view our entire range for delivery straight to your online here.
Curious if supplements can really help your arthritic dog? Learn how glucosamine, chondroitin, and other natural remedies may improve joint health and mobility. Explore the science behind dog arthritis supplements and whether they're an effective addition to your pet’s treatment plan. Read more about it here!