Arthritis in dogs – what's behind it?

Is your dog refusing the next walk, avoiding his favorite spot on the bed, or reacting aggressively to being touched? Changes in behavior should alert dog owners. This is because arthritis in dogs develops gradually, and the symptoms can be difficult to interpret.

A visit to the veterinarian will provide answers. The important thing is: osteoarthritis is treatable! But what exactly does the term mean, what symptoms commonly occur, and what treatment options are available? And how can dog owners actively support the therapy?

Arthritis in dogs – what's behind it?

Osteoarthritis, also known as arthrosis deformans, is a chronic joint disease in dogs . It involves degenerative joint wear and tear, which can occur at any age and is characterized by joint degeneration and loss.

Cartilage loss causes the bones to rub against each other, leading to painful inflammation of the joint. This also permanently alters the structure of the joints.

In contrast to arthritis, an infectious and acute inflammation of the joints, osteoarthritis is considered incurable . The disease can affect one or more joints.

Veterinarians distinguish between primary and secondary osteoarthritis in dogs. In primary osteoarthritis, the joint lubricating fluid diminishes with age. This can reduce the mobility of older dogs.

Large dog breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are considered prone to osteoarthritis. However, any dog ​​breed can suffer from this joint disease and require treatment. Furthermore, the condition can be exacerbated by other factors such as obesity, poorly healed injuries, or lack of exercise.

Secondary osteoarthritis, on the other hand, can affect dogs of any age and can be caused by arthritis or malformation. Therefore, a diagnosis should not deter dog owners from pursuing treatment.

Because treatment by a veterinarian can improve the animal's quality of life in the long term. Young dogs, in particular, gain the chance to live many more happy and pain-free years through arthritis treatment.

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Causes of the disease

Besides age-related joint wear and tear, numerous factors can lead to osteoarthritis in dogs. For example, if a puppy 's joints are subjected to excessive stress, the risk of the dog developing osteoarthritis in the following years increases.

If a dog is not fed properly and suffers from a nutrient deficiency , this can also cause osteoarthritis. Obesity or pre-existing conditions such as fractures, ligament tears, or growth disorders can also be contributing factors. Furthermore , metabolic disorders or malformations can lead to osteoarthritis.

The following causes are frequently identified:

• Genetic factors
• Nutritional mistakes
• Overloading of the joints
• Overweight
• Injuries
• Inflammation such as arthritis

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Symptoms – how osteoarthritis manifests itself

Admittedly, it takes time for joint wear and tear to become noticeable in dogs. Furthermore, it's not always easy for dog owners to correctly interpret their dog's pain. For this reason, regular check-ups are essential to detect any problems early.

Furthermore, it's important to remember that anyone who knows their dog and observes them carefully will recognize unusual behavior. After all, not every dog ​​that doesn't want to jump into the car has arthritis. However, avoiding jumping can be a sign of arthritis if the dog previously jumped into the car or onto the bed without any problems.

The following symptoms may indicate joint problems in animals:

• The dog moves stiffly.
• The dog avoids movement.
• The dog plays less often.
• The dog is limping.
• The dog has warm or swollen joints.
• The dog's joints make noises.
• The dog is protecting its paws.
• The dog reacts aggressively to being petted.
• The dog frequently licks its paws.
• The dog avoids hard, cold surfaces.
• The dog cannot climb stairs.
• Jumping into the car leads to difficulties.
• The dog is losing muscle mass.
• The dog groans when it gets up.
• The dog behaves unusually after exercise or in cold, wet weather.

When is a visit to the vet necessary?

A visit to the veterinarian is necessary if the animal exhibits a change in behavior that the owner cannot explain or associate with an illness. Physical signs such as muscle atrophy should also be examined by a veterinarian.

If a dog suffers from osteoarthritis, is it already too late for treatment? At every stage of the disease, to reduce pain, dog owners should contact a veterinarian immediately and have their dog examined.

The medical history is followed by a comprehensive examination . Based on the diagnosis, the veterinarian then develops an individual treatment plan for the affected dog. Pain medication is usually administered in cases of severe pain. Early-stage osteoarthritis, on the other hand, can be treated, for example, through dietary changes.

This is how the veterinarian makes the diagnosis

To make a diagnosis, the veterinarian first questions the dog owner. Then, the veterinarian palpates the animal's joints.

In addition, X-rays are taken. A computed tomography (CT) scan also offers the possibility of examining affected joints more closely, visualizing any potential wear and tear, and measuring the cartilage. To rule out arthritis, the joint fluid , also known as synovial fluid, is extracted using a fine needle and analyzed.

Another option is body fat measurement (Body Condition Score, or BCS for short). This allows the veterinarian to determine if the patient is overweight. The treatment plan is then created following the diagnosis.

Course of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis in dogs develops gradually . Initially, lameness may occur. Subsequently, the dog's mobility and joint movement can progressively decrease. Pain only arises later in the course of the disease.

This restricts the dog's movement, leading to muscle atrophy. If left untreated, this lack of exercise and the progression of the disease can significantly reduce the dog's quality of life.

How dangerous is arthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis in dogs is not curable, but it can be treated. The insidious thing is that there is no pain at the beginning of the disease. The cartilage in the joint gradually deteriorates. In addition, the synovial fluid can become thinner.

As a result, osteophytes, small growths on the joint surfaces, form. These, in turn, can lead to restricted mobility and nerve compression. Over time, the entire joint is permanently damaged.

What treatment options are available?

What helps with arthritis in dogs? Dog owners desperately ask themselves this question when their four-legged friend receives a diagnosis of "arthritis". Various treatment options are available to slow the progression of the disease.

The following applies: Excess weight in a four-legged arthritis patient can be remedied through dietary changes and weight loss. Severe pain can be alleviated with medication, and physiotherapy helps maintain the dog's mobility. Acupuncture or physical therapy can also counteract stiffness.

In any case, dog owners should only administer their dog's arthritis treatment in consultation with a veterinarian . For example, administering painkillers intended for humans is generally not suitable for animals. Side effects or even dangerous poisoning cannot be ruled out. In this way, dog owners could even endanger their dog's life.

Medications

Medication can improve a dog's quality of life. Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications can allow the animal to live a virtually pain-free life. However, these painkillers, also called analgesics, can cause gastrointestinal problems.

In particular, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can increase the risk of developing stomach ulcers or perforations. For this reason, a proton pump inhibitor is often prescribed concurrently. Medications containing cortisone are used when osteoarthritis is accompanied by arthritis. The goal is to reduce inflammation.

Conservative treatment

To slow the progression of osteoarthritis, conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, exercise , or a special diet can be used. In addition, dog owners can use supplementary feed for their pets in consultation with their veterinarian.

Gold acupuncture, using needles made of gold beads, is also said to have a positive influence on the progression of the disease. Other possible treatments include shockwave therapy or an injection of the body's own substance , hyaluronic acid , which is injected into the joint.

surgery

If hip dysplasia or a similar condition is present, the bone fragments must be surgically removed from the joint capsule. Implantation of an artificial joint is also possible during surgery. These procedures are performed in a specialized veterinary clinic.

Home remedies for arthritis – what helps the dog

Early-stage osteoarthritis can be treated with home remedies in addition to the veterinarian's treatment plan.

The following home remedies can provide relief:

• Warm compresses can relieve pain if there is no joint inflammation.

  • Cooling pads can be placed on the joint to treat inflammation.
  • Ginger can have an anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Turmeric is said to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Herbal ointments made from comfrey, echinacea, calendula or arnica are said to have an anti-inflammatory effect.

  Homeopathy for dogs with arthritis

  A natural treatment for osteoarthritis in dogs: In alternative medicine, naturopaths usually prescribe complex remedies such as Traumeel or tablets or globules for osteoarthritis in dogs.

  Common remedies include Conium D4, Causticum D12, and Rhus toxicodendron D12. Acupuncture and osteopathy are also used. Alternative medicine can complement conventional treatment methods or replace medical care.

  How much movement is possible?

  A dog with arthritis should get sufficient exercise every day. It is therefore advisable to continue walking the dog at a moderate pace .

  This helps prevent muscle atrophy and progressive limitations in mobility. Furthermore, nutrients are only supplied to joints that are in motion. Therefore, inactivity can lead to a worsening of symptoms.

  Relaxed walks and swimming trips are both possible. Swimming strengthens the dog's muscles and is gentle on the joints. Ramps can be used instead of stairs to protect the dog's joints. If the dog is very playful, it is advisable to choose a soft surface, such as forest floor.

  A tip: Dog owners can hide treats for the dog to find. Search games don't require sudden braking and are therefore also suitable for dogs with arthritis.

  The dog should eat this.

  For both humans and dogs, a balanced and comprehensive diet and a healthy body weight are paramount. If osteoarthritis has been diagnosed, the pet should especially consume foods high in vitamin C and vitamin E. Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil are also recommended.

  Furthermore, the veterinarian may recommend nutritional supplements. For example , type I collagen can support joint regeneration, while hyaluronic acid can keep joints supple. If the dog is overweight, it is advisable to put it on a diet and feed it a special diet .

  The following points characterize suitable food for dogs with arthritis:

  • no genetically modified ingredients
  • Made from gently processed, fresh foods
  • contains no wheat
  • Contains neither salt nor sugar nor additives

  Helpful tips for dog owners

  Joint problems in dogs: With appropriate therapy, a dog with osteoarthritis can usually look forward to many more happy years. To prevent the disease, dog owners should ensure their pet has a healthy diet and a controlled weight . Those who exclusively choose high-quality dog ​​food that is wheat-free and free of additives support their dog's health.

  Plenty of exercise ensures strong muscles and high mobility. Anyone acquiring a dog as a puppy should also inquire about the measures the breeder has taken to ensure controlled and healthy growth.

  In some cases, end-stage osteoarthritis can lead to dog owners having to consider euthanasia . The rule here is: if the dog is suffering severe pain and can no longer move, putting the animal down may be the best course of action.

  FAQ: Arthritis in dogs – what helps?

  Should a dog with arthritis get plenty of exercise?

  A dog with arthritis should continue to exercise.

  How can I help my dog ​​with arthritis?

  High-quality food, an optimal body weight, and sufficient exercise can slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Home remedies can also be used.

  What works well as a pain reliever for arthritis in dogs?

  Various painkillers can be used to treat osteoarthritis. The therapy depends on the diagnosis.

  What is the best food to feed my dog ​​if he has arthritis?

  The dog should receive high-quality dog ​​food made from natural ingredients. It should not contain sugar, wheat, salt, preservatives, or flavor enhancers.

  The conclusion – numerous treatment options for dogs with osteoarthritis

  The chronic joint disease "osteoarthritis" develops unnoticed and can be accompanied by severe pain. If dog owners observe any unusual behavior in their loyal companion, they should consult a veterinarian and describe all abnormalities during the medical history.

  Based on the diagnosis, the physician develops a treatment plan to slow the progression of the disease. In addition to medication, numerous therapeutic methods exist that can avoid surgery.

  Dog owners can support the therapy by following the treatment plan and, for example, consistently putting the dog on a diet. In the early stages, home remedies such as herbal compresses can also provide relief.