Types & Causes of Canine Joint Pain
Your dog's joint pain could be caused by one of two conditions: developmental or degenerative.
Developmental Joint Issues
Genetics may be to blame for developmental joint problems in some dogs. If your dog's joints develop improperly from a young age, it can progress to more serious conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia.
Many dog breeds, especially large and giant breeds, are susceptible to various issues that can result in painful joints. For example, Bernese Mountain Dogs often develop elbow dysplasia, while Rottweilers are prone to developing knee and ankle joint problems. Newfoundlands are one breed that's most prone to developing issues with the cranial cruciate ligament.
If you are purchasing a dog from a breeder, ask about any predispositions your chosen breed or lineage may have to joint issues. A reputable breeder will provide you with this information up front, but it's a good idea to ask if you don't receive it.
Degenerative Joint Issues
Degenerative joint problems develop over time. In these cases, the cartilage in a dog's joints wears down, or tendon injuries occur. Cruciate ligament issues are the most common type of joint problem. Tissues degenerate over time with repeated use, causing pain and more severe problems.
The underlying cause of degenerative joint issues can range from stress fractures and injuries to osteoarthritis. However, they frequently develop in larger dogs, whose weight puts more strain on their joints over time.
Signs Your Dog May Be Experiencing Joint Pain
It can be difficult to tell if your dog is suffering from joint pain. Like many animals, dogs can conceal pain quite well. Especially if they are young, they may continue to participate in activities that could be causing pain or worsening their condition.
To help your dog avoid increasingly severe pain as a result of joint issues, watch for the earliest signs of discomfort, such as:
- Loss of Appetite
- Frequent slipping while moving
- Limping and stiffness
- Lethargy
- Irritability
- Depression
- Licking, biting, or chewing the affected area
If you see your dog exhibiting any of these behaviors without an obvious cause, you should call your vet to have your pup examined for joint pain and its underlying conditions.
Is joint pain in dogs ever an emergency?
Joint pain in dogs can sometimes be an emergency if it is sudden and severe, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as limping, swelling, or difficulty walking. In these cases, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.
Treating Joint Pain In Dogs
The treatments your vet will give your dog for joint pain will be determined by the severity of your pup's condition and the root cause of the pain. Conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia will require surgical intervention to rectify, while other degenerative joint conditions may be treated with a combination of nutrition, rehabilitation, and exercise if caught early.
While the specific treatment may vary, the primary goal of treating your dog's joint pain will be to get them back to their regular mobility and activity level. This is especially important because well-developed muscles around your pup's joints actually help to reduce the stress and strain they place on their joints. An active dog is a healthy one.
Most treatments will also involve an assessment of your dog's weight in relation to its size. If your dog is overweight, it puts additional strain on their joints, and a diet may be recommended to help alleviate the weight their painful joints must bear.
How to Help a Dog at Home
One way to help a dog with joint pain at home is to provide a comfortable and supportive bed that relieves pressure on their joints. Another useful tip is to engage your dog in low-impact activities like swimming or gentle walks to keep their joints moving without putting too much strain on them.
Excess weight in your dog can exacerbate joint pain, so it's also important to keep him at an appropriate weight. Implementing these strategies will help you manage your dog's joint pain and improve their overall quality of life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.