Seeing your dog in pain is hard. As a dog owner, you want your dog to be healthy and happy. When a dog is experiencing pain, one of the main causes is joint pain. But what are the symptoms of dog joint pain? What causes joint pain in dogs? What can you do to help your dog with joint pain, and can you help prevent it? Being able to help your dog with joint pain will make your pup happier and possibly extend their life.
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The signs and symptoms of joint pain in dogs
Joint pain in dogs can come on gradually. Since most owners are with their dogs every day, the symptoms may be so gradual that you don’t notice until the symptoms are more severe. Some of the things to watch for can be:
- getting up slowly
- slipping on floors
- limping
- not wanting to jump
- having trouble going up and downstairs
- not wanting to go for walks
- less energy
- less play
- lethargic, sleeping more
- increased irritability, aggression
- muscle loss
- inflamed or swollen joints
- excessive grooming
- decreased appetite
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The causes of dog joint pain
Dog joint pain can be caused by many things and some dog breeds are more susceptible than other breeds. Larger breed dogs tend to have more joint problems than smaller breeds. Also, joint pain can occur in younger dogs as well as older dogs.
Degenerative causes
One of the most common causes of joint pain in dogs is from arthritis or inflamed joints. Arthritis can occur in dogs of all sizes, large and small. As arthritis progress, it can develop into osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.
According to Elizabeth Racine, DVM, who works with the AKC, “Osteoarthritis, also sometimes called “degenerative joint disease,” occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints begins to deteriorate. This can happen due to repetitive stress, injury, infection, genetics, or the normal aging processes. The loss of this protective cushion results in progressively worsening pain and inflammation of the joint.”
Developmental causes
Dog joint pain can also be caused by developmental issues. Some breeds of dogs or family lines can have a hereditary predisposition to joint problems like hip dysplasia. Some dogs can develop abnormal muscles in their back, hips,
Elizabeth Racine, DVM also states, “Dysplasia of the hip or elbow joint occurs most commonly in large and giant breed dogs, though other breeds can be affected. Dysplasia is a conformation abnormality of the affected joint, resulting in decreased range of motion, lameness, and deterioration of the joint. While hip and elbow dysplasia are typically hereditary, factors such as obesity and improper nutrition can speed the progression of the disease.”
Other causes of joint pain in dogs
Other causes of dog joint pain can be from trauma. Even an older injury can cause joint problems for your dog as they age. Also, being overweight can be very hard on a dog’s joints, causing pain.
Prevention and treatment for joint pain in dogs
Slipping on floors can cause joint pain in dogs
One of the first things you can do to help prevent and treat joint pain in your dog is to prevent the slipping on floors. You can put down carpet runners on wood or tile floors. This will give your dog more traction as they walk through the house. Luckily, there are such cute patterns available for carpet runners, you can provide comfort for your dog while keeping your home looking stylish.
Dog exercise
Another thing you can do to help prevent and treat joint pain is to exercise with your dog. Dogs should get frequent exercise, use it or lose it. However, too much of anything can be a bad thing. Therefore, try not to let your dog go up and down stairs excessively. Also, excessive running and walking can overdo it for some dog breeds. Balance is the key. If your dog is already having joint pain, look for low impact exercises like water-based or hydrotherapy.
Healthy weight
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight will help prevent joint pain. If your dog is already overweight, lifestyle changes may need to take place. In addition to exercise, your dog may need to go on a diet.
There are several brands of dog food that are focused on weight loss and weight management. Our dogs love Purina Pro Plan Weight Control High Protein Dry Dog Food. Save your own joints and have it delivered directly to your home!
Veterinary Care
The most important thing you can do to help prevent dog pain is regular exams by your vet. Furthermore, if you notice any signs or symptoms of joint pain in your dog, you need to notify your vet as soon as possible.
Your vet will be able to check your dog’s joints to see if any problems are developing. They will also check the status of any joint treatment being done. Your vet can perform diagnostic tests like x-rays or if needed an MRI.
Your vet might recommend massage, warm compress, acupressure, or medications like dog joint supplements, NSAIDS, or steroids. Depending on the severity of your dog’s joint problems, some dogs can benefit from injections or physical therapy. Unfortunately, some joint problems can be so severe your dog may need surgery.
If your dog has advanced joint problems, make sure your vet is trained to take care of your dog’s needs. Learn how to find the perfect vet for your pet.
Other change around your home to help your dog’s joint pain
There are things you can get for around your home to help decrease your dog’s joint pain. Elevated dog bowls and doggie ramps or steps can help decrease your dog’s joint pain.
Orthopedic dog beds can be expensive but can greatly reduce the amount of joint pain your dog has. The comfort of an orthopedic dog bed can be priceless!
Also, a dog lift harness can assist with mobility problems your dog is having and in the process, help save your back too.
Joint pain in dogs can be devastating. It can lead to loss of mobility, lack of appetite, doggie depression and eventually death. Watching your beloved dog deal with joint pain can be just as devastating. But if you know the signs and symptoms to watch for, the causes and how to treat and prevent it, you can stop dog joint pain in its tracks.
What joint problems has your dog had and how did you treat it?
See these other MUST READ articles to learn how to provide the best care for your fur baby!
- The Best Orthopedic Dog Beds
- How to Provide the Best Care for Your Senior Dog
- How to Find the Perfect Vet for Your Pet
- How to Help Your Local Animal Shelter
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