Osteoarthritis (OA) is more common in dogs than some people may realize. In fact, approximately 50% of dogs ages 5-10yrs have some form of Osteoarthritis. Other terms associated with this disease would be Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), Arthrosis, as well as Osteoarthrosis. There are a few contributing factors that can help prevent or slow down the progression of OA; however, there unfortunately isn’t a cure for the disease.
Osteoarthritis is triggered by inflammation in the joints and is often associated with uneven weight bearing and distribution, often in a repetitive manner. Many dogs who are also not fed a well-balanced diet especially during their growth period, are at a higher risk of developing OA. Many puppies may benefit from being on a high plane of nutrition with a diet. This can decrease the likelihood of joint disease developing due to poor nutrition. Large breed dog foods often have an increased amount of glucosamine in them, which help to support joints as they grow. Any dog can have OA; however, it’s most common in larger breeds, as well as dogs that are overweight. Obesity produces a persistent low grade secondary inflammation that increases the stress on joints. Joint conformation can also be factored by genetics, environment, exercise and body formation.
What are some signs that your dog may be suffering from OA? Often owners will notice things such as: their dog is more reluctant to climb up on the bed or to go up stairs, they may be slower getting up or have difficulties getting up, or dogs may not want to play fetch for as long as they use to. Sometimes dogs can show aggression as they could be painful. These are all possible signs that your dog may be experiencing some form of Osteoarthritis.
Although there isn’t a cure for Osteoarthritis, there are some treatment options that can help slow down the progression of the disease. An overweight dog could lose some weight to help lessen the stress on their joints. There are also some great supplements which have natural anti-inflammatories in them, as well as veterinary diets. It is important to improve joint stability as well as joint mobility. You can also decrease their activity level, by controlled exercise as well as “lighter” activities: walking several times a day for shorter periods of time, avoiding long hikes, etc. Other options would be pain modulation, as Osteoarthritis can be very painful.
If you have any questions about Osteoarthritis or are concerned that your dog may be suffering from it, you should reach out to your Veterinarian for a complete orthopaedic exam. Your Veterinarian can help by giving you information and by coming up with a plan to potentially slow down the progress of OA.