What is arthritis in dogs?
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints of dogs. It is a progressive disease that worsens over time. Arthritis often affects older dogs, but can occur in dogs of any age. The most common signs of arthritis in dogs include stiffness, limping, difficulty standing up or lying down, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and decreased activity level. Arthritis can occur in any joint, but it most commonly affects the hips, elbows, knees, and spine.
What are the causes of arthritis in dogs?
There are several potential causes of arthritis in dogs:
– Age – As dogs get older, the cartilage in their joints breaks down and wears away. This allows the bones to rub together, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Older dogs are by far the most commonly affected by arthritis.
– Injury – Joint injuries, such as torn ligaments or dislocated joints, can lead to unstable joints. This increases wear and tear on the joint over time and raises the risk of developing arthritis.
– Obesity – Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This accelerates joint degeneration and arthritis.
– Genetics – Some dog breeds are genetically prone to developing arthritis, including German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers.
– Developmental diseases – Abnormalities present at birth involving the joints, bones or connective tissue can result in arthritis later in a dog’s life. For example, hip or elbow dysplasia often leads to osteoarthritis.
What are the types of arthritis in dogs?
There are several different types of arthritis that can affect dogs:
– Osteoarthritis – This is the most common type of arthritis in dogs. It is caused by gradual wear and tear on the joints over time. Breakdown of cartilage leads to pain, stiffness, and loss of joint function.
– Rheumatoid arthritis – This is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and erosions in the joint. It is less common than osteoarthritis in dogs.
– Septic arthritis – This type of arthritis is caused by joint infection, often from a penetrating wound or surgery. The infected joint becomes hot, swollen, and extremely painful. Urgent treatment is needed.
– Immune-mediated arthritis – The immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, causing painful inflammation. It can affect any joint and may come and go.
– Traumatic arthritis – This follows joint trauma, such as torn cranial cruciate ligament or dislocated hips. Damaged joints develop painful osteoarthritis over time.
What are the main treatment options for dog arthritis?
There are a variety of treatment options that may help relieve your dog’s arthritic pain and improve joint function. Main approaches include:
– Medications – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like carprofen or meloxicam, help control arthritis pain and inflammation. Other drugs may be prescribed.
– Joint supplements – Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids support joint health and may slow arthritis progression. They are available in pills, liquids or chews.
– Weight management – Helping an overweight dog slim down lessens pressure on arthritic joints. Diet change and more exercise could be needed.
– Physical therapy – Low-impact activities like swimming, massage and range-of-motion exercises can strengthen muscles, increase joint flexibility and reduce pain.
– Assistive devices – Braces, harnesses, ramps or lifts can aid mobility and prevent further joint injury for arthritis-suffering dogs.
– Surgery – Procedures like total hip replacement can relieve severe arthritis pain if more conservative treatments fail.
– Alternative therapies – Options like acupuncture, laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound and hydrotherapy may provide additional pain relief.
What medications are used for dog arthritis?
There are several types of medications that veterinarians commonly prescribe to help relieve pain, inflammation and stiffness in arthritic dogs:
– NSAIDs – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including carprofen (Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam), firocoxib (Previcox) and tepoxalin work by blocking inflammatory pathways involved in arthritis. They can have side effects like digestive upset or liver/kidney damage in some dogs.
– Joint supplements – Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements help rebuild cartilage and lubricate joints. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils also reduce inflammation. These are available as chews, liquids or pills to mix with food.
– Gabapentin – This neuropathic pain drug can help chronic arthritis pain by altering pain signals to the brain. It often gets combined with other medications.
– Adequan – Polysulfated glycosaminoglycan injections (Adequan) may slow cartilage breakdown and arthritis progression by inhibiting enzymes that damage joints. They are given 1-2 times a week.
– Corticosteroids – Steroid drugs like prednisone offer powerful anti-inflammatory effects but have more potential side effects with long-term use. They may be used short-term for severe arthritis.
– Opioids – Tramadol is sometimes prescribed for short-term relief of more severe arthritis pain when other medications aren’t sufficient. Side effects like sedation or constipation are possible.
What over-the-counter joint supplements help dog arthritis?
Some popular over-the-counter joint supplements for arthritic dogs include:
– Glucosamine – This building block for cartilage repair and production comes in pills or chews. Glucosamine chondroitin combinations may offer additional anti-inflammatory effects. It can take 4-6 weeks to see improvement.
– Chondroitin – Often paired with glucosamine, this compound inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage in joints. It’s available as tablets or powder.
– MSM – Methylsulfonylmethane supports collagen production in joints. Optimal dosing of MSM for dog arthritis relief isn’t well established.
– Omega-3 fatty acids – Anti-inflammatory omega-3s from fish, krill or algal oils (EPA/DHA) are often added to joint supplements or given alone in liquid or chew form. Salmon oil is a readily absorbed option.
– Turmeric – Curcumin in turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Look for enhanced bioavailability formulas for optimal absorption.
– Boswellia – This Ayurvedic herb offers arthritis pain relief. It may take up to 8 weeks for noticeable improvement.
– Collagen – Some preliminary evidence suggests supplemental collagen peptides could help arthritis by supporting cartilage. More research is still needed.
Always talk to your veterinarian before starting supplements to ensure safety and proper dosing for your dog. Monitor for any side effects like diarrhea or vomiting.
What foods are good for dogs with arthritis?
Certain foods and ingredients can help reduce inflammation and support joint health in dogs with arthritis:
– Fatty fish – Salmon, mackerel, herring, and other omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish help control inflammation when fed regularly. Choose low-mercury options.
– Meat – Unprocessed lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef contain glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Avoid fatty cuts.
– Eggs – The shells provide highly bioavailable calcium for bones. The albumen contains proteins that may support cartilage.
– Veggies – Colorful veggies like carrots, spinach, kale and sweet potatoes are packed with antioxidants that fight inflammation and arthritis progression.
– Oats – Whole grain oatmeal contains silicon, a trace mineral important for bone flexibility and strength as well as collagen formation. Choose gluten-free oats if needed.
– Shiitake mushrooms – Compounds in these medicinal mushrooms may slow cartilage breakdown and inhibit inflammation. Always cook well before feeding.
– Green tea – The antioxidants in brewed chilled green tea fight damaging inflammation. Avoid grapes/raisins which are toxic to dogs.
– Turmeric – This anti-inflammatory spice contains the compound curcumin shown to improve arthritis symptoms. Use small amounts.
A nutritionally balanced anti-inflammatory diet tailored for dogs with arthritis can make an immense difference in their comfort and quality of life. Consult with your vet on the best nutrition plan.
What exercises are good for arthritic dogs?
Low-impact exercises that strengthen muscles and improve flexibility without stressing joints are best for arthritic dogs. Good options include:
– Swimming – The water buoyancy and resistance allow dogs to exercise sore joints and build muscle strength without weight-bearing impact. Do this in shallow, warm water.
– Slow walks – Gentle daily walks help maintain joint mobility but don’t force your dog. Keep them on soft surfaces and stop if limping worsens.
– Hydrotherapy – Special treadmills or pools with adjustable water jets aid gentle resistance exercises. Consult a canine rehab therapist for guidance.
– Stretching – Gently flexing and extending your dog’s legs, neck and back for a few minutes daily keeps joints limber. Never force range of motion.
– Massage – Light petting and rubbing of sore muscles and joints increases circulation and reduces stiffness. Be cautious around severely inflamed joints.
– Balance exercises – Having an arthritic dog walk across a hand towel, sit on a fitness ball or balance board, or catch treats gently builds strength.
– Stair climbing – Going up and down a few carpeted steps builds rear leg strength. Use a harness for support and avoid jumping down.
The keys are starting slow and low-impact while monitoring for increased limping, pain or reluctance to participate. Stop any activity that seems to aggravate your dog’s arthritis. Check with your veterinarian first before starting an exercise program.
What physical therapy exercises help dogs with arthritis?
Under the guidance of a canine physical therapist, therapeutic exercises that can benefit arthritic dogs include:
– Passive range of motion – Gently moving the dog’s sore joints through their normal range of motion to maintain flexibility. The therapist may use massage first.
– Cavaletti rails – Having the dog step over or walk between rails helps build muscle strength, balance, and coordination in the legs. Rails are raised for progression.
– Assisted walks – Walking the dog on a treadmill or underwater treadmill with partial body-weight support from a harness allows for greater activity with less joint impact.
– Heat or cryotherapy – Warm packs or cold therapy before exercising helps manage pain and inflammation to allow for greater mobility.
– Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) – Mild electrical impulses block pain signals to the brain during exercise. Electrodes are placed near affected joints.
– Therapeutic laser – Photobiomodulation therapy uses targeted lasers to reduce pain and inflammation before performing therapeutic exercises.
– Whole body vibration – Standing on a vibrating platform transmits stimulation to muscles and joints which can aid mobility. Only gentle, short durations are appropriate.
– Stretching – Gentle stretching of muscles and joints after exercise while tissues are warm prevents stiffness. Never force range of motion.
A canine rehabilitation therapist can tailor exercises to each dog based on their needs and degree of arthritis. Physical therapy helps maximize the benefits of exercise while preventing overexertion.
What types of surgery can help severe dog arthritis?
For large breed dogs with severe arthritis that no longer responds adequately to conservative treatment, the following surgical options may be considered:
– Total hip replacement – This surgery removes damaged hip bones and cartilage and replaces them with an artificial hip implant. An intense recovery and rehab program follows. Over 90% of dogs have excellent outcomes with restored mobility and pain relief.
– Total elbow replacement – A surgical procedure to replace diseased elbow joints with an artificial hinged joint. Range of motion improves dramatically in most dogs though it requires demanding post-op rehab.
– Femoral head ostectomy – Removing the ball at the top of the femur eliminates the pain of hip arthritis while still allowing pretty good joint function from scar tissue forming. Physical therapy is beneficial afterwards.
– Joint fusion – Surgically eliminating motion between two bones can reduce arthritic pain in severely damaged joints like the carpal wrist joint. Adjacent joints often help compensate well.
– Partial carpal arthrodesis – Fusing selected bones in the carpus of the canine wrist provides stability and arthritis pain relief while preserving some flexibility.
Arthritic dogs should be referred to a board-certified veterinary surgeon to determine if they are candidates for any of these complex operations. Surgical treatment can provide lasting arthritis pain relief and improved mobility.
Can acupuncture help a dog with arthritis?
Yes, acupuncture can be a beneficial supplemental therapy for controlling arthritis pain and inflammation in dogs when performed by a licensed veterinary acupuncturist. Benefits of acupuncture may include:
– Increased blood flow – Acupuncture is thought to increase circulation around affected joints, delivering healing nutrients and oxygen while flushing out inflammatory compounds contributing to arthritis pain.
– Pain blockade – Needle stimulation of certain acupoints releases endorphins that can interrupt arthritis joint pain signals and provide analgesic relief. Effects can last beyond the treatment session.
– Reduced inflammation – Some studies suggest acupuncture may reduce local and systemic inflammation through neural, cytokine and other anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
– Improved mobility – Following a course of treatments, many owners report seeing their arthritic dogs move with greater ease and flexibility as their pain is brought under better control.
– Fewer medications – Acupuncture may allow for lower dosing or less frequent need for prescription anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers in dogs with arthritis.
– Enhanced quality of life – With arthritis pain better controlled through acupuncture, dogs are able to be more active and participate more normally in activities they are avoiding due to discomfort.
Always choose an experienced veterinary acupuncturist. Effects are often cumulative so multiple sessions are typically needed, along with patience, for maximum arthritis benefits. Most dogs tolerate the procedure very well.
Are there any natural remedies for dog arthritis pain?
Some gentle natural remedies may help provide additional relief alongside standard veterinary treatment for an arthritic dog’s pain and inflammation, including:
– Omega-3 fatty acids – Anti-inflammatory omega-3 supplements from fish or krill oils support joint health. Salmon oil is readily absorbed.
– Glucosamine/chondroitin – These compounds promote cartilage repair. Look for quality supplements with research-proven ingredient doses for dogs.
– Turmeric – Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties. Chose enhanced bioavailability formulations to optimize absorption.
– Acupuncture – Needle stimulation releases pain-blocking endorphins and improves arthritis inflammation when performed by a licensed vet.
– CBD Oil – Non-psychoactive CBD from hemp may help relieve chronic arthritis pain when dosed properly. Look for quality regulated products.
– Antioxidants – Vitamin C, vitamin E, and resveratrol help fight free radicals that contribute to cartilage breakdown.
– Boswellia – This Ayurvedic herb may reduce inflammation at higher doses. Take several weeks to take effect.
– Low-level laser therapy – Photobiomodulation light therapy applied to affected joints shows promise for arthritis pain relief. More research is pending.
– Massage – Gentle petting and rubbing of sore joints and muscles increases circulation and relieves stiffness.
Always consult your vet before giving natural supplements or therapies to ensure safety and efficacy. Monitor for any adverse effects.
How can you manage an arthritic dog at home?
Caring for an arthritic dog at home involves both medical management and lifestyle adjustments to optimize their comfort, including:
– Giving prescribed medications – Strictly follow dosing instructions for any anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, joint supplements or other treatments prescribed by your vet.
– Providing orthopedic beds and mats – Well-padded and elevated beds reduce pressure on painful joints. Use non-slip mats to avoid falls.
– Installing ramps/stairs – Make it easier to access furniture or vehicles and avoid awkward jumping. Offer support when climbing.
– Keeping them lean – Prevent excess weight strain on arthritic joints with an optimal diet and exercise routine.
– Massaging sore spots – Gently rubbing tense, stiff joints may increase circulation and provide soothing relief. Avoid inflamed areas.
– Applying warm/cold compresses – Alternate warm packs and cold packs to relieve stiffness and swelling as needed. Don’t attempt this long-term without vet guidance.
– Modifying exercise – Focus on low-impact activity to maintain joint health. Avoid leaping or intense exercise that worsens pain or limping.
– Planning rest periods – Ensure arthritic dogs have quiet areas to frequently rest their painful joints throughout the day.
– Making hard surfaces slip-resistant – Traction aids like yoga mats, runners, or adhesive strips on floors help prevent falls and further joint trauma.
With medication and lifestyle adaptations centered around joint protection and pain management, dogs with arthritis can enjoy a good quality of life. Monitor your dog closely and report any concerning changes to your veterinarian right away.
Conclusion
Arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition for dogs, but various mainstream and alternative treatment options may provide significant relief. Work closely with your veterinarian to develop an integrative management plan tailored to your individual dog based on the type and severity of their arthritis. Maintaining a lean body weight through diet and gentle exercise, administering joint supplements, and making the home environment more accessible and comfortable for an arthritic dog can also go a long way in improving their comfort and mobility. While arthritis cannot be cured, it often be well-controlled with the right combination of therapies, medications, nutrition, exercise modification, orthopedic aids, supportive care, patience, and love.