Here's how to spot six signs of a painful condition that's common among pet dogs
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes stiff, painful joints that's common in older dogs, but it can affect pets of any age.
If you're concerned about your furry friend's joint health, experts from Bob Martin have offered their tips for recognising and treating arthritis in dogs. There are many factors that contribute to joint health, such as weight, activity levels, and age. Some breeds are more prone to weight gain and high activity levels, which can put them at a higher risk of joint conditions like arthritis.
Larger breeds tend to be more prone to joint problems like arthritis due to their increased body weight. These breeds include Labradors, German shepherds, golden retrievers, rottweilers, Bernese Mountain dogs, and Saint Bernards.
If you're worried about your dog's joints, it's worth keeping an eye on their behaviour (Getty Images/Xixinxing)Other dog breeds, such as pugs, dachshunds, and French and English bulldogs, are more likely to develop arthritis due to their small build. These dogs can be prone to weight gain as well, which puts extra pressure on their joints. Bulldogs are also more likely to see wonkiness in their legs if their joints aren’t formed properly, which can lead to arthritis.
Some medium-sizes breeds can develop the conditions due to high activity levels, such as Spaniels - who are naturally active. This means their joints can become overused at an early age.
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How to spot early signs of arthritis in dogs
If you're worried about your dog's joints, it's worth keeping an eye on their behaviour. Some common signs of arthritis include:
- Limping or lameness, particularly after a walk
- Tiredness
- Irritability
- Licking or chewing painful areas
- Difficulty sitting down or getting up
- Reluctance to be touched in certain areas
How to treat arthritis in dogs
While no cure for arthritis is available, there are some treatments you can try to help ease symptoms and make your dog more comfortable. These include joint supplements such as omega-3, which can help fight inflammation. Another is glucosamine, which is another supplement that can encourage healthy joints in dogs.
Dog joint supplements usually contain omega-3, glucosamine, and chondroitin (alongside other essential vitamins and minerals) to give your dog everything they need in one single dose. These supplements can't treat arthritis directly but can help provide support. Before adding supplements to your dog's diet, it's best to consult your vet to make sure this is the right option for your pet.
Some dogs may benefit from hydrotherapy during which your dog is placed in a life jacket and put on an underwater treadmill.. This can help reduce swelling, build muscle, and lose weight, making it a good option for dogs whose joint pain stems from weight.
If your dog has arthritis then they may find walks slightly uncomfortable. Regular short walks can give them enough exercise and fresh air without putting too much strain on their joints. You can also help ease some discomfort by using a harness, which will take some of the pressure off their hips and hind legs.
Lisa Melvin, Head of Marketing from Bob Martin said: "While arthritis can happen for a number of reasons, keeping your dog in good health from an early age can help protect against joint conditions later in life. A healthy, balanced diet is essential as it not only helps prevent weight gain but also provides your pet with all the essential nutrients they need."
"Ask your vet about joint supplements too. These can help keep your dog's joints in check from an early age, which can help give them the best start and reduce the likelihood of them struggling with their joints in the future."
She added: "Getting plenty of exercise can also help keep your dog's weight at a healthy level, but running too much on hard surfaces can put pressure on their joints. Instead, try a low-impact sport with them, such as swimming."
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