Degenerative joint disease in dogs

Overview

As a natural part of aging, wear and tear can take its toll on your dog's body - especially on the bones and muscles that make his body work. Cartilage is extremely important for the proper function of joints.  It normally provides a smooth, low-friction surface between bones and joints. In some dogs, however, cartilage may become eroded or develop fissures, causing pain and inflammation.  When joint inflammation occurs over an extended period of time, a condition known as degenerative joint disease develops. 

Symptoms

• Difficulty getting up
• Loss of mobility
• Stiffness after rest, especially in the morning
• Limping or  lameness after exercise
• Bunny hopping when walking or running
• Swollen joints

Causes

Although degenerative joint disease generally affects older dogs, it's not unheard of to see this problem in animals of all ages. Selective breeding has altered the bone structure in many dogs, especially large or giant breeds such as German Shepherds, Mastiffs and Great Danes, making them more susceptible to arthritis. Some dogs are born with a defect that inhibits the normal development of cartilage and can lead to permanent lameness in the shoulders, knees, and ankles.

Another common inherited disorder is hip dysplasia. Because the joint doesn't fit together as snugly as it should, a dog's leg bone will move around too much in its socket - resulting in lameness in one or both hind legs and ultimately results in arthritis.

A serious injury can also start the degenerative process. Active canines sometimes rupture ligaments in their knees, which can increase inflammation and cartilage breakdown. Obesity is another major cause of degenerative joint disease. An overweight dog puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, causing those prone to arthritis to develop it earlier in life.

Treatment

Short-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to alleviate the pain, and in some cases, surgery may be required. Never give your dog any human medications for pain and discomfort because they can cause irreversible kidney and liver damage.  Only give your dog the medications prescribed by your veterinarian. 

All-natural products that effectively act as anti-nflammatories and pain relievers with fewer side effects than other medications are also available.  Many vets prescribe a nutritional supplement that provides glucosamine and chondroitin, which help animals replenish articular cartilage.  These supplements are often used in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs in hopes to best eliminate discomfort. 

The future

There is no cure for degenerative joint disease, but your dog can be kept more comfortable with regular light exercise, such as swimming, and  a combination of  anti-inflammatory medications and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements. If your dog does not move around enough, he will get stiffer and be even less mobile, so keep him moving with light exercise.

Providing your dog with a  warm spot to sleep in will comfort your dog's sore joints. Many pet supply stores offer heated beds made especially for older pets.