Understanding Arthritis in Dogs – Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Is your dog becoming a couch potato, getting irritated easily or facing difficulty in walking or running? Well, they might be suffering from arthritis. Yes, as dogs age, their joints become weak due to multiple reasons, leading to mobility problems and interfering with everyday activities.

Continue reading to unfold everything about arthritis in dogs, ranging from symptoms to prevention tips and keep your little bundle of joy hale and hearty in the coming years.

What is Dog Arthritis?

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a complex condition that leads to the breakdown of cartilage, a smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones. It is characterized by pain, inflammation and degeneration of one or more joints. Although arthritis affects both younger as well as older dogs, it is more common in senior dogs. Though there is no permanent cure for arthritis, it can be managed and prevented with the right course of action.  

Let’s understand everything about arthritis in dogs so that you can keep your canine in good trim.

What Causes Arthritis in Dogs?

Although the actual cause of arthritis is unknown, here are some common reasons that cause arthritis in dogs:

• Hip or elbow dysplasia: Hip or elbow dysplasia causes joint instability, leading to pain, mobility issues and arthritis.

• Genetic disorders: Genetics can be a contributing factor in causing arthritis in dogs. For instance, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Labradors, etc., are prone to arthritis than other breeds.

• Wear & tear of joints: As dogs age, theirjoints undergo normal wear and tear, leading to cartilage breakdown.

• Excessive weight: Overweight or obese dogs are at a higher risk of arthritis since their weight puts extra stress on joints, causing pain, inflammation and cartilage breakdown.

• Joint injury: Fracture, ligament tear or any joint injury in the past increases the risk of arthritis.

• Lifestyle: Lack of exercise can make the joints weak, while over-exercising can stress the joints and may lead to arthritis in dogs.   

What are the Signs of Arthritis in Dogs?

Dogs exhibit various signs when suffering from arthritis that often go unnoticed; watch out for these subtle signs to provide timely treatment to your furry companion:

• Swollen joints
• Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
• Decreased appetite
• Unexpected aggression or irritability
• Excessive licking of joints
• Stiffness, inflammation & limping
• Reluctance towards  touch or petting
• Excessive sleepiness
• Less playtime
• Restlessness

How to Prevent Arthritis in Dogs?

Mentioned below are some easy tips to manage arthritis and keep your dog’s joints healthy:

Weight Management

Joint health is directly related to a healthy weight. Yes, maintaining an ideal weight promotes healthy joints and bones and improves mobility. Obese or overweight dogs are more prone to joint-related problems; hence, it is important to keep track of your dog’s weight to maintain healthy joints in the long run.

Regular Exercise

Moderate exercise on a regular basis plays a significant role in maintaining optimal joint health. No matter how young or old your dog is, make sure to take them for everyday walks, hiking, swimming or running according to their preferences, as it not only keeps them active but also prevents joint stiffness and inflammation.

Balanced Diet

Feeding a nutritious and well-balanced diet, packed with essential vitamins and minerals, goes a long way in keeping your dog’s joints healthy and improving mobility. Natural ingredients including fish oil, turmeric, etc., not only enhance your canine’s joint health but also promote their overall well-being.

Joint Supplements

Joint supplements are a great way to keep your dog’s joints healthy, as they are packed with essential nutrients required for maintaining sound joint health. Dorwest Green Releaf Tablets, GCS Joint Care Advanced Powder, MobiFlex Joint Care Tablets and Arthrimed Powder are some of the effective dog joint care supplements that helps improve mobility and enhance joint and bone health. Always consult your vet before administering any supplement for better results.

Regular Vet Check-ups 

Taking your canine companion for routine vet check-ups can help diagnose joint-related problems, if any, at an early stage and provide timely treatment before it is too late.

Canine Arthritis – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can arthritis in dogs be cured?

Ans. No, dog arthritis is not completely curable, but it can be managed and prevented with an appropriate course of action.

Q2. What are the signs of arthritis in dogs?

Ans. Walking difficulty, reluctance to play, joint stiffness, loss of appetite and lethargy are some of the most common signs of arthritis in dogs.

Q3. How to help a dog suffering from arthritis?

Ans. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity and administering joint supplements are a few effective ways that can help manage arthritis in dogs and enhance their quality of life.

Final Words

Arthritis is a serious condition that affects a dog’s longevity and overall quality of life. But with the right knowledge and little effort, it can be easily tackled and prevented. Equip yourself with the information provided in this blog and enhance your canine’s quality of life in the years to come.

Happy Parenting!