Osteoarthritis in dogs prevents the animal from performing certain basic daily movements, such as walking. This is a difficult time for both the animal and its owner. In some cases, the affected dog may have swollen, red, and hot joints.
Osteoarthritis is often more common in older dogs, but it can also develop in younger dogs. In the latter case, the cause may be an injury or joint malformation. Several symptoms can help identify the causes and guide appropriate treatment.
What is Dog Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis in dogs is a bone disease that occurs when the cartilage in the joints begins to deteriorate. It can cause severe pain, joint stiffness, and decreased mobility. This canine rheumatism can affect multiple bones and joints, from the hips and spine to the knees, elbows, and shoulders.
Osteoarthritis in dogs can manifest itself in various ways depending on its form and progression. There are two forms of osteoarthritis in dogs: primary osteoarthritis and secondary osteoarthritis.
Primary Osteoarthritis
Primary osteoarthritis, also known as idiopathic osteoarthritis, is a form of osteoarthritis that develops without a clear cause. In reality, the causes are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development. These include age, gender, heredity, weight, lifestyle, previous joint injuries, and more.
The joints most affected by primary osteoarthritis are generally those that experience the most pressure and stress on a daily basis. These include the knees, hips, fingers, and spine. Treatment for primary osteoarthritis aims to relieve symptoms, improve joint function, and slow disease progression.
Secondary Osteoarthritis
Secondary osteoarthritis, unlike primary osteoarthritis, develops as a result of a specific cause. The most common causes of secondary osteoarthritis include previous injuries, such as a sprain or joint fracture. Similarly, a congenital malformation, such as hip dysplasia, or chronic inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can be causes.
Symptoms of secondary osteoarthritis are the same as those seen in primary osteoarthritis. These include pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. The knee, hip, and spine joints are often affected.
Causes of osteoarthritis in dogs
The causes of osteoarthritis in dogs are multiple and can include a variety of factors.
The old age of the dog
A dog's aging is one of the leading causes of osteoarthritis. The disease is more common in older dogs because cartilage tends to deteriorate over time. As dogs age, they move very little, leading to weakened bones and cartilage degradation.
This can quickly lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Hormonal changes associated with aging can affect a dog's joints and increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
Trauma or Degradation of Dog Joints
Joint trauma or degradation are also causes of osteoarthritis in dogs . Traumatic injuries such as fractures, sprains, or dislocations can damage joints and lead to premature cartilage breakdown.
Malformations in certain dog breeds can cause premature wear of the joints and increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Dysplasia and Other Genetic Diseases
Dysplasia and various other genetic diseases in dogs are well-known risk factors for osteoarthritis. Hip and shoulder dysplasia are common in dogs and can lead to osteoarthritis. This is a condition caused by loosening of the ligaments in the joint. The result is friction between the bone and the socket that is supposed to hold it.
Dysplasia can progress to osteoarthritis if not treated promptly. Other genetic diseases, such as Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease and Cushing's disease, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis in dogs.
Obesity and Poor Diet
Obesity and poor diet increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in dogs. When dogs are obese or overweight, they put additional pressure on their joints. This can lead to premature cartilage wear, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
An unbalanced and poor-quality diet can lead to osteoarthritis in dogs. Dog foods high in saturated fats, sugars, and carbohydrates promote weight gain and therefore joint inflammation. On the other hand, a healthy, balanced diet rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent osteoarthritis in dogs.
If your dog tends to eat too quickly, which can cause him to gain weight, read our article on how to stop your dog from eating too quickly and consider investing in a slow-feeding bowl .
Dog osteoarthritis, symptoms
There are many symptoms that can help you determine whether your dog has osteoarthritis or not. For canine osteoarthritis, the symptoms are actually related to the stage of the disease's development.
Early Stage
In the early stages of osteoarthritis in dogs, it can be quite difficult to recognize the symptoms. However, with a little attention, you can easily spot the signs that indicate nascent osteoarthritis in your dog. For example, if your dog is less active or doesn't play as much as before, this could be a sign.
Also, lethargy, a general lack of enthusiasm, or a change in behavior are signs to be aware of. In the early stages of osteoarthritis in dogs, loss of appetite and difficulty getting up after prolonged rest may be observed. Teeth grinding, whining, or growling may also be heard when the dog moves or is touched.
Advanced Stage
In the advanced stages of canine osteoarthritis, symptoms become much more evident. They can have a significant impact on your pet's quality of life. At this stage, pain is more pronounced in the affected joints. You may even notice significant foot inflammation in dogs suffering from this disease.
Depending on the case, it may be constant or intermittent, leading to a significant decrease in physical activity. This stage may also be marked by a very lame gait or abnormal movement. If your dog has difficulty going up or down stairs, jumping, or running, the disease may be at an advanced stage. It can also cause behavioral changes such as increased irritability, aggression, or apathy.
Final Stage
The final stage is usually characterized by a significant deterioration in your pet's health. Symptoms here begin with constant and severe pain, sometimes difficult to control even with medication. The animal's limbs gradually begin to lock up.
The dog is then completely unable to move or even stand. The pain in the final stage is truly excruciating, and a gentle animal that used to play a lot may become aggressive.
How can I prevent and relieve my dog's osteoarthritis naturally?
Osteoarthritis is very painful and can disrupt your dog's daily life. Therefore, it's important to know how to prevent and relieve dog osteoarthritis naturally.
Regular physical activity and exercise
Regular exercise can help strengthen your dog's muscles and joints. This can help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and prevent its progression. However, it's important to choose activities and exercises that are appropriate for your dog's health.
To this end, it's important to monitor your dog's osteoarthritis and take walks to exercise your dog and prevent the disease. Swimming is also a good option for dogs with osteoarthritis because it's low-impact and helps strengthen muscles. You can also help your dog with gentle stretching exercises. These can help improve joint flexibility and reduce pain.
At Mikizi, you will find many toys suitable for your pet, such as ball launchers or even dog pools and water games .
Chew toys and dog treats can also help strengthen your dog's jaw muscles and joints.
Suitable food for dogs
The right diet can help naturally relieve your dog's osteoarthritis symptoms. Your dog needs specific foods to get the essential proteins and nutrients to support joint health. Likewise, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the joints.
Sources of omega-3s include fatty fish like salmon, fish oils, and fish oil supplements. A good dog arthritis diet and regular walking are essential to keep the condition under control.
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can also help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation in your dog's joints. Nuts, seeds, green vegetables, and vegetable oils contain sufficient amounts of vitamin E and are good for dogs.
General comfort of life
By improving your dog's overall comfort, it is possible to naturally relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
To begin, make sure your dog has a comfortable and supportive bed. An orthopedic bed or a memory foam mattress are recommended. Avoid beds that are too hard or too soft, as these can put pressure on your dog's joints. You may even be able to find a dog mattress for osteoarthritis .
Occasionally, try gently massaging the areas affected by your dog's arthritis using circular motions or gentle tapping. It's always important to consult a veterinarian for the best advice on how to truly help your dog.
Avoid activities that can aggravate your dog's joint pain, such as running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
Treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs
Are you looking for a treatment for osteoarthritis in dogs? There are several available, and their use depends on several factors.
Anti-inflammatory treatment
Anti-inflammatory medications help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the disease. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly prescribed medications for dogs with osteoarthritis. These medications must be prescribed by a veterinarian and should be used with great caution. They can cause side effects, and you should follow the instructions of your veterinarian or veterinary assistant .
In some cases, corticosteroids can be used to relieve dog joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. However, they are generally reserved for the most severe cases of osteoarthritis.
Pain relief treatment
Pain relievers can be used in combination with anti-inflammatory medications to improve your dog's quality of life. To use them, follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
Medical Intervention
If the disease is severely affecting your dog's health, surgery may be considered. This includes removing bone fragments or inserting an artificial joint. In cases of advanced osteoarthritis, surgery may be recommended. Common surgical procedures for osteoarthritis in dogs may include femoral head resection, arthrodesis (joint fusion), or joint replacement.
FAQ: Everything you need to know about cleaning your dog
How do I know if my dog has osteoarthritis?
If your dog begins to limp or has difficulty moving, this could be a sign of osteoarthritis. Similarly, decreased activity could indicate pain or discomfort related to osteoarthritis. Changes in sleeping habits and sensitivity to touch should be considered.
My dog has trouble walking, what should I do?
If your dog is having trouble walking, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian immediately. This could indicate a health problem such as osteoarthritis, an injury, a neurological disease, or an infection. A professional will be able to determine the exact cause of the problem and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.
My dog has an osteoarthritis attack, what should I do?
If your dog is experiencing an osteoarthritis attack, try a slow massage on the affected area. If the animal allows you to be touched, massage the area using circular motions. You can even use a healing balm to amplify the massage action. You can then use nutritional supplements that can help reduce inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. It is also possible to apply heat to the painful areas. Consult your veterinarian for treatment for osteoarthritis in dogs .
How to relieve osteoarthritis in dogs?
Engage your dog in regular, light exercise, such as moderate walking, to help. Eat a balanced diet rich in essential joint nutrients to support your dog's health.
Supplements can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to relieve your dog's pain and inflammation. You must follow the dosage and the number of doses to provide relief for your pet.
What are some home remedies for dog osteoarthritis?
There are several home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs. However, these are not medical treatments and should not be used over professional veterinary care. For example, you can apply a warm compress to your dog's sore joint to reduce pain and inflammation.
Some essential oils have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve osteoarthritis in dogs. However, avoid essential oils that can be toxic to dogs.
