Osteoarthritis in dogs - causes, symptoms and treatment

Have you noticed that your furry friend suddenly doesn't feel like playing anymore, shys away from long walks or even has trouble climbing the few steps to the front door? There can be a multitude of different causes behind this. Osteoarthritis in dogs can be one of them. Today, almost every fifth dog suffers from joint wear and tear, making joint problems one of the most common diseases in four-legged friends. In particular, large breeds that are getting older are potentially at risk.

But what is arthrosis in dogs, what causes it, how do you recognize it and what can help? We have taken a closer look at this for you below.

What is osteoarthritis in dogs?

Analogous to Arthrose or osteoarthrosis in humans, osteoarthritis in dogs is a chronic and degenerative disease of the articular cartilage that progressively progresses. In the process, the articular cartilage is degenerated, resulting in a change in the joint structure. The synovial fluid, which is responsible for the smooth sliding of the bones, breaks down, causing the joint surfaces to rub painfully against each other with every movement. As a result, the unaccustomed, permanent load can even lead to deformation of the bones. Osteoarthritis in dogs is usually not inflammatory and can sometimes be accompanied by swelling.

In principle, any joint can be affected by joint atrophy. In dogs, it is often the hips, hocks and elbows. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis in dogs cannot be cured. Therapy is more about slowing down the progression. It is therefore important that canine arthrosis is diagnosed in good time so that there is a good chance of getting it under control.

What causes osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis in dogs has many causes. Although joint wear often occurs with age, it can also occur in young dogs. This is the case when the loads on the joints were already very high in puppyhood.

Obesity, previous illnesses such as hip dysplasia or a metabolic disorder as well as injuries can also promote arthrosis in dogs. Diet also plays a key role in joint disease. A lack of important nutrients, the essential amino acids or fatty acids such as omega 3, can have an equally unfavorable effect on joint functions.

In summary, the following main causes are considered osteoarthritis in dogs:

• defects or pre-existing conditions
• genetic changes
• accelerated growth in the puppy phase
• overloading of the joints
• accidents and injuries
• arthritis
• lack of exercise
• Malnutrition
• overweight

How do you recognize osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis in dogs is not only a disease that is incurable, but also progresses gradually. Symptoms usually only appear when the articular cartilage has already been damaged. It is important that you continuously observe your four-legged friend during his daily movements, especially if it is a large breed and at an advanced age.

Typical signs of osteoarthritis in dogs include:

• start-up pain
• Lameness
• restriction of mobility
• reluctance to play
• Avoiding long walks

The lameness gets worse over time. In addition, there is limited joint mobility, pain, loss of muscle mass and tension.

Tip: It is best to also have a regular osteoarthritis check with your veterinarian. Any osteoarthritis can be diagnosed and treated at an early stage. The earlier, the better, because therapy can slow down the course of the disease and reduce movement pain. At the very latest, you should see your vet if you notice any symptoms.

What helps with canine osteoarthritis?

Once osteoarthritis has been diagnosed in a dog, treatment continues for the rest of the dog's life. As a rule, osteoarthritis therapy should be multimodal. This means that in addition to the possible prescription of veterinary medicine, it is important to find the right amount of daily exercise, to support mobility with physiotherapy, to adjust the food and possibly reduce excess weight and to make sure that the furry friend is supplied with all the important nutrients is.

Our tips: home remedies and methods for osteoarthritis in dogs

• Help your dog climb the stairs by setting up ramps or blocks.
• Pay attention to an ergonomically correct sleeping place. You can also get special dog beds for osteoarthritis on the market.
• Gently and carefully massage the muscles of your fur nose. This increases both blood circulation and well-being and can promote mobility.
• Make sure your dog receives sufficient omega-3 fatty acids from the feed. These are considered anti-inflammatory and are suspected of relieving pain.
• With our IN MOTION 365 you can also optimize your diet in a completely natural way. A special formulation of green-lipped mussel, willow bark and devil's claw can have a positive effect on general joint problems and stiffness, but also on conditions such as osteoarthritis in dogs, arthritis HD and ED. At the same time, the formulation can strengthen the joint apparatus and contribute to the (re)construction of cartilage tissue.
• See regular physical therapy, exercise therapy, or chiropractic care. The mobility of the dog is often improved with an underwater treadmill because the stress on the joints is lower.
• Make sure you avoid any risk of injury such as slippery surfaces.
• Give your four-legged friend enough rest and create a quiet retreat where he can relax far away from noise, stress and hustle and bustle. Dogs with osteoarthritis often have an increased need for rest.
• Due to the stiffness of the joints, it is possible that your dog can no longer adequately care for its fur. Therefore, help him with regular clipping, brushing and washing.
• If your dog is overweight, it is essential that he has to lose a few kilos due to osteoarthritis. Talk to your veterinarian or a dedicated canine nutritionist.

Even though there is no cure for osteoarthritis in dogs, there is a lot you can do to improve the quality of life despite the progressive consequences. The correct use of nutritional supplements can be an important first step. You can read why food supplements can be useful for dogs and which ones are the right ones here, in our in-depth article on the subject!

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