Arthritis in Dogs: Signs, Diagnosis & Treatments
- Last updated on January 17, 2023
- By: Caroline Stowe
What is Dog Arthritis?
Technically, it is also known as degenerative joint disease and is typically caused by the breakdown of cartilage in a joint, leading to inflammation and pain. This can be caused by injury, normal wear-and-tear, or certain diseases such as hip dysplasia.
Arthritis affects dogs just as it does humans, causing aches and pains in the joints that can make mobility difficult. In dogs, arthritis usually occurs most commonly in the hips, elbows, knees, spine and shoulders. It is most commonly seen in older dogs, although it can affect any age group or breed.
Signs and Symptoms to look out for Arthritis in Dogs
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis in dogs include the following:
- Reduced activity levels and reluctance to move or exercise
- Pain or stiffness when standing, walking, running, jumping, or climbing stairs
- Difficulty rising from a resting position or going downstairs
- Limping or lameness in one or more legs
- Swelling of joints that may be warm to the touch
- Some dogs may lick or chew around their joints as a way of alleviating pain or soreness in the area
How to Identify if the Dog has Arthritis?
The vet may use several methods to diagnose arthritis in dogs, including:
- X-rays or other imaging tests
- A physical examination of the affected joint(s)
- An analysis of your dog’s medical history, such as any prior injury to the joints
Treating Arthritis in Dogs
If your dog has been diagnosed with degenerative joint disease, it is important to work closely with your vet to come up with an effective treatment plan. It’s important to remember that degenerative joint diseases like arthritis can be managed with proper treatment – but they cannot be cured.
That being said, with the right combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and exercise, your furry friend can manage their arthritis and enjoy a good quality of life.
The primary goal of treatment for arthritis in dogs is to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation associated with the condition, as well as improving joint function.
To achieve this, your veterinarian may recommend a variety of treatments including medications such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, physical therapy, and possibly even surgery. Let’s dive into these treatments and explore them together.
NSAIDs medication
Arthritis NSAIDs for dogs are a common treatment option for canine arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are used to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as improve mobility in dogs with degenerative joint disease.
These drugs work by blocking the production of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain. They won’t cure the underlying condition, but they can help manage the symptoms.
Common NSAIDs for dogs include carprofen (Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam), deracoxib (Deramaxx), and firocoxib (Previcox). It is important to remember that these products should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian, as improper or excessive use could lead to serious side effects.
In addition, careful monitoring by a vet is necessary when using NSAIDs for dogs with arthritis, as they may cause stomach ulcers or kidney damage if not used properly. Your veterinarian will help you choose the safest and most effective dosage for your dog’s needs.
Overall, NSAIDs can be an important part of an arthritis treatment plan. When used properly and monitored closely, they can help your furry friend manage their symptoms and lead a more comfortable life. Speak to your veterinarian if you think your pet would benefit from one of these medications. With the right care and support, you can help ensure that your dog is as comfortable and happy as possible.
Joint supplements
Glucosamine and chondroitin are two supplements commonly used for treating arthritis in dogs.
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage, tendons, and ligaments that helps maintain joint health. Chondroitin is a sugar molecule that works by blocking enzymes that break down cartilage.
These supplements may help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, as well as slow down the progress of joint damage. They can also help improve mobility in dogs.
It is important to remember that these dietary supplements alone cannot cure the underlying condition. However, they can offer some relief from symptoms and be beneficial in managing the symptoms.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for dogs with arthritis. Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints, leading to more pain and discomfort. To help your pup manage the symptoms, it’s important to keep your pet’s weight in check so they’re not carrying extra weight.
Your veterinarian can help you determine an ideal body condition score for your pet and offer advice on how to adjust their diet and exercise routine accordingly.
By working together, you can develop a weight management plan that is tailored to your pup’s specific needs and help them achieve optimal health.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can also be beneficial for treating arthritis in dogs. This type of therapy focuses on improving mobility, reducing pain, and increasing muscle strength by performing exercises that target the affected area.
Your veterinarian may be able to recommend a physical therapist or refer you to one that specializes in treating animals with arthritis. Physical therapists can also help with pain management, providing tips on how to reduce discomfort during exercise or everyday activities.
Make sure to work closely with the physical therapist to develop an individualized plan for your pet. Overall, physical therapy can help improve your pup’s quality of life and help them maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to remember that physical therapy should always be done under the supervision of a professional who has experience with canine rehabilitation.
Low-impact exercise
Exercise plays an important role in managing arthritis in dogs. Regular exercises can help reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and keep your dog’s joints and muscles flexible. They can also help reduce inflammation, strengthen the muscles surrounding affected joints, and improve your pet’s overall mobility.
Your veterinarian can advise on appropriate exercises for your pet, depending on their individual needs and the severity of symptoms. Low-impact activities like swimming and walking are typically recommended for pets with arthritis. When possible, consider using a supportive device such as an underwater treadmill or a joint support system to help reduce the strain on your dog’s joints.
Exercise should always be done at a slow pace and not exceed what your dog is capable of doing safely. Always remember to introduce exercise gradually and moderately. Too much physical activity could actually worsen symptoms, so it is best to start slowly and increase the intensity of your pet’s exercise routine gradually over time.
Lastly, make sure to monitor your pet closely for signs of fatigue or discomfort. If your dog is showing any signs of pain or distress, stop the activity and consult your veterinarian about a different exercise plan for your pet.
Overall, low-impact exercises can be beneficial in managing arthritis in dogs when done properly. Talk to your vet about what activities are best suited for your dog’s condition and how to safely increase the intensity of their exercise routine over time. With the right care, your dog can stay as active and healthy as possible.
Stem Cell Therapies
Stem cell therapies are becoming increasingly popular for treating arthritis in Dogs. Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can develop into specialized tissues, like cartilage or muscle. When injected into an arthritic joint, stem cells may help reduce inflammation and pain while promoting the regeneration of healthy tissue.
Stem cell therapies may be an effective treatment for dogs with arthritis, as they can help improve mobility and reduce pain. Research is still ongoing about the potential benefits of stem cell therapies for treating degenerative joint disease in dogs, so talk to your vet if you think this might be an option for your pet.
Surgery
In certain cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to effectively treat canine arthritis. This type of surgery aims to reduce pain and improve mobility by repairing damaged cartilage or realigning joints that have been affected by the condition.
There are several different types of surgeries available for treating arthritis, including joint replacement and fusion procedures. Your veterinarian will be able to advise whether surgery is a suitable option for your pet. They will go over all of the risks and advantages of each procedure so that you can make a well-informed decision.
Helpful Tips for Supporting Your Furry Friend with Arthritis
- Provide comfortable bedding: Arthritic dogs may benefit from an orthopedic foam bed to help cushion their joints and reduce pain while sleeping.
- Protect your pet from the cold: Cold weather can worsen arthritis pain and inflammation, so make sure to provide extra warmth for your dog during colder months.
- Make stairs easier to climb: Place carpet runners or use a dog ramp for car or a bed ramp to help make it easier for your pet to walk up and down steps.
- Massage sore joints: Regular massage therapy may help reduce swelling and stiffness from arthritis.
- Utilize supportive products: Consider using devices such as a support harness, cart, or dog wheelchair to help your dog move more comfortably.
- Special diet: Consider switching them to specially-formulated dog food for arthritis with ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine as key ingredients in promoting improved mobility, overall well-being, and reduced inflammation over time.
By following these tips and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help keep your arthritic dog as comfortable and active as possible.
Conclusion
No matter how mild or severe the arthritis is, it is important to take action to ensure your dog stays healthy. If you think that your pet may be suffering from joint pain, it is best to consult a vet as soon as possible in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment.
With the right management plan tailored to your pup’s specific needs, you can help them achieve optimal health despite their arthritis. Remember, even though arthritis can be a very painful condition for dogs, it is important to remain positive and focus on maintaining their quality of life.
Dietary supplements, low-impact exercises, stem cell therapies, physical therapy, and surgery are all viable options for treating arthritis in dogs. Talk to your vet about which approach is right for your pet. With their help and with the right management plan, your dog can still go on to live a happy and healthy life.
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Author:
Caroline Stowe
- Updated on January 17, 2023
Disclaimer: This article doesn’t intend to replace professional veterinary advice, nor should it be used as a substitute for veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this website, including information and opinions expressed herein, are intended for general informational purposes only. In case you have concerns or questions regarding your dog’s health and diet requirements, please consult your veterinarian before doing anything that might affect it.
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