Arthritis in Dogs

As patients age, slow developing diseases may become apparent. Arthritis, also known as “degenerative joint disease”, is the progressive and permanent destruction of joint cartilage. Pain in tendons, ligaments, joint capsules, and bone is caused by inflammation and mechanical damage. Some signs that your dog may be affected by arthritis include falling behind during walks, difficulty getting up, licking at joints, changes in personality, periodic lameness, and worsening of symptoms in cold weather. These changes are slow to appear and are often difficult to notice until they become pronounced.

Several factors may contribute to the development of this disease in your dog. Old injuries may predispose your dog to arthritis. Nails that are too long alter the natural position of the toes, decrease traction on hard flat surfaces, and encourage pulled muscles from slipping. Obese dogs carry excess weight that adds pressure to weak or painful joints. Vigorous exercise on pavement or only exercising your dog occasionally may also be damaging. Rapid growth as a puppy has been shown to worsen bad joints and arthritis later in life. Hereditary defects, such as hip dysplasia, contribute as well.

Many new treatments are now available to both slow the progression of arthritis as well as to treat the pain. New research has shown that improvements in diet and general health can have significant benefits. Supplements (not regulated by the FDA) such as glucosamine and chondroitin add to the lubrication of the joint and are thought to slow the progression of damage. Newer pain medications are more effective than ever at controlling pain and have fewer side effects. However, these drugs are all processed through the liver and may have effects on the kidneys and other major organs. All treatments should be prescribed and supervised by your veterinarian. Do not give your dog over the counter drugs or those prescribed for humans as they effect dogs differently and may cause serious illness. As our canine companions live longer, it becomes more important to treat arthritis early to provide a good quality of life for them.