Dog arthritis is a common problem with older dogs and can become a debilitating disease if not treaded. This disease affects every five adult dogs in the United States. It is an inflammation of the joints, so watch for stiffness, pain and swelling in your dog.

The joints that are usually affected are the hips (small dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia), elbows and knees. Arthritis is a progressive disease that develops over time. Watch for early signs such as different activity level or behavior.

There are different types of canine arthritis:

  • Osteoarthritis

    This is the most common, it’s chronic and slow progressing. It is the breakdown of your pet’s cartilage.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

    An immune disease that affects the whole body.

  • Stifle Joint Disorder

    The knee and joint be unstable.

  • Degenerative Joint Disorder

    Breakdown of knee and joint, usually cartilage and becomes unstable.
    Signs that your dog may have arthritis :

  • Refuses to go on a walk.
  • Limping
  • Lameness
  • Reluctant to jump or climb stairs.
  • Weigh gain.
  • Overall stiffness.
  • Thickening of joints of affected limb.First of all, healthy diet and exercise to help maintain proper weight is important if your dog has arthritis since being overweigh causes more stress on joints. You will have to adapt his exercise for his condition, of course. Shorter walks plus taking him at times he seems less stiff. Swimming is a good exercise for him.

    You might have to provide a way for him to climb onto his favorite place if it is to high like a dog ramp. Of course, if possible eliminate the need for him to climb stairs.

    There are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) that are usually prescribed to help relieve the pain. There are over-the-counter treatments that contain glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate. However, giving your dog glucosamine is becoming the most widely used treatment for dog arthritis.

    It works by regenerating and rebuilding joint tissue.

    • Sandy has a web site on small dog breeds with information on different breeds including pages on dogs good with children and the elderly, choosing a dog and breeder, vet, dog clothes, dog houses and much more.

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