Arthritis is a complex condition that can affect nearly every living vertebrate creature. Characterized by the inflammation and degeneration within the joints, arthritis can be painful for anyone experiencing it. Our dogs are prone to developing this condition as they age, so it becomes important for owners to know what to look for and what to expect if their dog is diagnosed. What causes arthritis in dogs? Just like in humans and other animals, there is no one singular cause of arthritis in dogs. There are many variables at play and dogs may experience one or several of the common factors, which include:
  •       Breed
  •       Activity level/history
  •       Body condition
  •       Injury history
  •       Nutrition
And so much more – many of which are influenced by genetics. Essentially, arthritis can occur in any dog and it’s not simply from aging, but becomes more likely to happen in their senior years. Signs of arthritis in dogs Dogs are experts at concealing their pain and it’s easy to overlook any they may give us. While each dog will present signs of arthritis differently, the most frequently noticed are:
  •       Difficulty moving – particularly getting up and down
  •       Reluctance to jump or go up/down stairs
  •       Stiff gaits
  •       Yelping or flinching when certain joints are touched
  •       Decreased stamina
  •       Unexplained aggression or growling
If your dog is showing any of the above symptoms or simply not acting like himself, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Treating arthritis in dogs The best treatment for arthritis in dogs is prevention, but once there is a diagnosis then your vet will draw up a plan of attack. Again, this varies from dog to dog and can rely on what symptoms your dog is showing. Medication – Anti-inflammatory drugs are the most common way to manage pain in arthritic dogs. Your vet will prescribe medication based on your dog’s needs. Nutrition – If your arthritic dog is overweight, the first thing you’ll need to do is put him on a diet. Extra weight on painful joints is a recipe for disaster and weight loss can work wonders on relieving the pain caused by arthritis. Physical therapies – Therapies that are beneficial to humans can also do wonders for our dogs. Massage, swimming, and even acupuncture are all remedies to help relieve the symptoms of arthritis in our furry best friends. And while it may seem counterintuitive, exercise is great for helping reduce pain as well. With appropriate management, dogs have a very positive prognosis after an arthritis diagnosis. You can help ensure their comfort at home by providing plenty of orthopedic bedding options, safe room for them to avoid rowdier household members, and swapping stairs for ramps when possible.