A Dog’s Age and Signs of Arthritis
Degenerative diseases like arthritis in dogs can be a huge cause for concern. Not only is arthritis painful, but it often has a big impact on the quality of life of the dog. The good thing is that arthritis can be managed with a good diet and proper exercise. Therefore, knowing what age dogs typically present with signs of arthritis is important.
Determining the at what age the dogs arthritis signs become noticeable will vary depending on the dog.
Dogs usually get arthritis from the age of 8 years onwards. These are seniors and arthritis around this age is not uncommon. However, some dogs can experience arthritis from an incredibly young age. With some dogs showing signs of arthritis from as young as one year old.
Some of the causes of early-onset arthritis may include:
Whatever the underlying causes, it is a good idea to notice and deal with the signs of early-onset arthritis promptly.
Arthritis can present itself in many ways. Some arthritis signs can be spotted from the combination of the symptoms below:
If you repeatedly notice some of these symptoms, it’s time to speak to your vet. Your veterinarian will likely recommend conducting a full physical examination and an X-ray scan of the affected areas. The X-ray scan is important because it may reveal the extent of the damage to the joint – even as it confirms or rules out arthritis.
Note: All dog breeds are at risk of getting arthritis, especially in their sunset days. However, some breeds have been known to get arthritis more often than most, even in their earlier days. Some of these breeds include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. Small to medium dog breeds can also get arthritis, but it is less common.
Also, some conditions such as hip dysplasia make a dog more prone to developing arthritis. Hip dysplasia is attributed to genetic causes and can be a significant factor contributing to arthritics in younger dogs. Walkin’ Wheels Wheelchair
Thankfully, there are more than a few ways to manage the condition of arthritis in dogs. Let’s explore a few of these treatment plans.
Working with a canine chiropractor to maintain some activity to the affected joints. There have been great results with this method. A chiropractor can assess a dog’s musculoskeletal issues. Helping them to eliminate pain and stiffness to improve the dog’s overall mobility.
Acupuncture may also be applied in the affected regions to relieve pain. How does acupuncture for dogs work? Acupuncture relaxes muscles and increases oxygenation in a dog’s tissues. This helps to relieve pain not only in the affected area, but through out the dog’s body. Regular acupuncture has even helped dogs to lower the need for some medications.
At home massage can be a good way to not only provide relief to your dog but can also provide an opportunity for bonding at a difficult time in his or her life. In the same vein, regular walking and happy active games can be a good way to work the limbs of the dog. Just be sure to speak with a licensed vet or, better yet a chiropractor, so that the exercising or walks do not worsen the degenerated joint regions causing arthritis.
Joint supplements can also help to fortify the nutrient levels necessary for strong bone and joint development. They also help to reduce inflammation and slow down the damage to the joint region. Some good joint supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, and Green-lipped mussel or GLM.
GLM is a joint supplement that provides nutrients such as antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and glycosaminoglycan. Therefore, it makes the joint region function better. Earlier on, Glyde Mobility Chews are often prescribed because they have minimal side effects and can be used for prolonged periods of time.
Provide a Comfy Space to Rest
Just like humans, the area where the dog chills should be as comfortable as possible – especially when dealing with a painful region of the body. Therefore, just like you would, provide plenty of cushions so that your furry friend is not resting the affected joints on hardwoods or other hard surfaces. Comfy or cozy beds will also be much welcome.
Weight management is key to dogs dealing with arthritis and keeping your dog healthy. As previously mentioned, obese dogs are at higher risk of developing arthritis when they put pressure on joints for extended periods of time. When the dog is diagnosed with arthritis, it is a good measure to reduce the weight of the dog. Therefore, weight management is key. Physical exercising can help to keep the weight under ideal levels –so that your dog can fight arthritis effectively. Swimming is a good physical activity that helps exercise limbs while also exercising the cardiovascular system. Nonetheless, speak with your vet to determine the best regimen for reducing weight in your dog – exercise, dieting, and all.
I Thought She Was Just Being Grumpy
Laika’s always been a bit sensitive. She’s the dog that yelps when she’s getting her shots at the vet. I always warn them before I bring her in: “she’s not aggressive, but she is very vocal.”
She’s never been a fan of getting her nails trimmed either — although she will tolerate it with enough yummy carrots on hand.
Late last year I noticed she was acting like a real jerk when it was time to trim her back nails. She’d pull away, regardless of how many carrots I was holding. I assumed she was being fussy. I’d gently grab her back paw again and start the nail dremel — just to have her instantly pull away again. I had no idea that the sensitivity in her back legs had to do with arthritis.
How Can You Tell if Your Dog has Arthritis: top 10 symptoms
Osteoarthritis is a common ailment found in older dogs, as well as some larger breeds that are genetically prone to it. Similarly to humans, arthritis in dogs causes changes in the affected joints that can be incredibly painful for your pet.
Arthritis can occur in any joint, but is most commonly found in the shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees. It can be caused by ongoing wear and tear, but can also be caused by an injury to the area, genetics, and disease.
If you notice any of the following 7 signs and suspect that your dog may suffer from arthritis, make an appointment with your vet to create a care plan.
You may notice that your dog is reluctant to do things that previously were not a problem for them.
Perhaps your pet used to dart into your vehicle the second the doors opened, and now seems indifferent. You may notice your dog has difficulty going up or down the stairs. Is your once playful pet no longer interested in running and playing? Maybe lagging behind on walks?
If you notice these changes in your pet, arthritis could be the culprit. Chances are, these once easy tasks are now painful due to swollen joints.
Depending on the joints that are affected, you may see your pet limping or favoring one or more legs over the others. If the spine is affected, your pet may even experience lameness in one or both hind legs.
Your dog may seem to experience pain or stiffness when getting up or down that seems to resolve after they have walked a bit and “warmed up.”
If you notice your dog is rejecting your affection or cries out in pain when you do pet them, it could be that you have located the problem area.
If you were in constant pain when moving, it is likely you would have a shorter fuse, too. The same goes for your dog. They may snap or bite when someone tries to touch them, particularly if you are handling them in a way that worsens the pain.
Often, dogs in pain don’t want to be bothered. Your pet may spend more time in quiet areas of the house, or stop following you around. Their schedule may change and you find they aren’t right there for a routine walk or play time.
It is not uncommon for an arthritic pet to pay special attention to painful joints. You may notice them licking or chewing on or more spots often, even to the point of hair loss and inflamed skin in the area.
If it is uncomfortable for your pet to move around, they will not want to walk as far or play. Instead they may spend more time resting or sleeping.
The decreased use of certain muscles will cause them to deteriorate over time. If the arthritis is in one or more legs, you may notice that those legs look thinner than the others.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, please make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. While arthritis is not curable, creating a treatment plan in the early stages can make the condition more bearable, and give your dog a better quality of life.