What is Arthritis in Dog?
Also known as degenerative joint disease, arthritis in dog is a debilitating condition involving inflammation, pain and stiffness in your dog’s joints. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints deteriorates, leading to friction between bones. This causes your dog to reduce or avoid any movement to minimise the pain and discomfort it feels. If your dog seems less enthusiastic about its routine walks or has trouble going up and down the stairs, those may be signs of arthritis. Its primary causes include genetics, age, breed, size, disease, physical injury, or joint overuse.
When Does Arthritis Start in Dogs?
A common misconception is that arthritis in dog only affects senior dogs. In reality, it can start at an early age due to various risk factors. For example, some dog breeds, including Labradors and German Shepherds, are more prone to developing arthritis due to genetic predisposition and joint structure. Meanwhile, lifestyle factors can also impact their risk level/ For example, overweight dogs are at higher risk of arthritis due to the additional pressure the excess weight exerts on their joints.
As a dog owner, it’s important to watch for signs of arthritis, regardless of your dog’s age or breed. If your dog often seems reluctant to engage in their favourite physical activities, a veterinary check-up is recommended to assess their joint health.
Arthritis Symptoms in Dogs
Some symptoms of arthritis include:
- Limping
- Stiffness in the limbs.
- Difficulty getting up
- Reduced stamina
- Reluctance to move around or go up and down the stairs.
- Weaker limbs .
- Unprovoked behavioural changes.
- Signs of pain when touched in certain areas
Arthritis in Dog Treatment
Treating or managing arthritis will depend on your dog’s condition, but a multidisciplinary approach yields better results.
Physiotherapy for Dogs with Arthritis
Physiotherapy or canine rehabilitation uses a multifaceted approach to restore your dog’s mobility, joint function, and overall quality of life
Techniques such as targeted exercises, hydrotherapy, massage, and range-of-motion movements can enhance flexibility and decrease stiffness. Modalities such as shockwave therapy, laser therapy and therapeutic ultrasound help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Regular rehabilitation sessions, combined with customised home exercises, can slow the progression of arthritis and improve a dog’s overall quality of life.
Acupuncture for Dogs with Arthritis
Acupuncture can also be a valuable complementary therapy for your dog in managing arthritis. It can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with the condition by stimulating specific acupoints that promote blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and encourage natural healing. It can also improve circulation to the affected joint(s), enhance the body’s pain-relieving mechanisms, and help the dog relax, significantly improving its well-being.
Surgery for Dogs with Arthritis
For more severe cases of arthritis in dog, surgery may be the best option for improving your dog’s comfort.
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief. Common surgical options include joint replacement (such as total hip replacement), arthroscopy to remove damaged tissue, and joint fusion (arthrodesis) for very severe cases. These procedures can help reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve a dog’s quality of life. Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for optimal recovery and long-term joint function.
In older dogs, the risks of general anesthesia must be carefully evaluated when considering surgery. Aging dogs may have underlying health conditions, such as heart, kidney, or liver disease, which can increase the likelihood of complications.
Medication for Dogs with Arthritis
Medications can be beneficial in managing arthritis in dogs, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are commonly prescribed for pain relief and to reduce swelling. Cartrophen (pentosan polysulphate), an injectable medication, helps protect and repair joint cartilage, while Librela can provide long-lasting pain relief by targeting pain pathways. It’s important to discuss with your vet the best treatment plan for your dog, as some medications may have side effects. Joint supplements like Antinol and Synoquin also support joint health, promoting cartilage repair and reducing inflammation. Your veterinarian can recommend the most suitable options based on your dog’s specific condition and needs.
Managing Arthritis in Dog
Arthritis may not be curable, but you can still take measures to prevent or manage it.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight strains the joints, increasing the risk of arthritis. A proper diet and regular exercise can reduce the load on your dog’s hips and prevent joint stress.
- Exercise Moderately: Regular, low-impact exercise like walking or swimming can strengthen your dog’s muscles and improve joint stability. Avoid high-impact activities like jumping or running on hard surfaces, which can stress developing joints.
- Use Nonslip Mats and Rugs: Place these around slippery areas to minimise your dog’s risk of slipping and injuring itself.
- Proper Nutrition: Feed your dog a balanced diet that supports joint health. Look for foods containing joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, or consider adding supplements to their diet per your vet’s recommendation.
- Orthopaedic Bed: Orthopaedic beds offer optimal support for your dog, promoting restful sleep and making it easier for them to get up without struggling or losing balance.
- Early Detection: Regular vet check-ups can help identify early signs of arthritis. Early intervention with physical therapy or lifestyle adjustments can improve your dog’s quality of life and delay the progression of arthritis.
Treat Your Dog’s Arthritis Today
Early prevention is the key to preventing arthritis in dog. If you need further support or have other questions about this condition, the Bluewater Vet Acupuncture & Rehabilitation team is here to help! Contact us via our website or WhatsApp us anytime to learn more about how our professional services can maintain your dog’s well-being!