What Are the Causes of Joint Pain in Dogs?

Signs and Symptoms

• Some of the most common signs of joint pain in dogs are stiffness, especially after sleeping, trouble getting up, hesitating or refusing to climb stairs, becoming less active, swollen joints, limping or a wobbly gait, and even depression. Some of these symptoms may go away once the dog becomes more active and "warmed up."

Overview of Causes

• There are 10 major classifications of joint diseases ranging from inherited disorders (hip displasia) to fractures and cancer. The two most common causes of joint pain in dogs are arthritis and hip displasia. Large breed dogs such as Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Great Danes and Mastiffs are more prone to joint diseases than smaller breeds. Arthritis is more prevalent in older dogs, while hip displasia, because of its genetic nature, can affect even young dogs.

Arthritis

• Just as in people, arthritis can affect dogs too, especially older ones. This type of joint pain is caused by inflammation and can target the elbow, shoulder or hip joints. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. Over the years, the cartilage around joints starts to deteriorate causing the bones to rub against each other, which results in pain and stiffness. Pain in the joints becomes more pronounced in the morning, during cold or damp weather, and after long periods of rest.

Hip Displasia

• Passed down from dogs to their puppies, hip displasia is an inherited condition which results in a poorly formed hip. The dog may have a wobbly gait or run with a "hopping" motion. Hip displasia can affect dogs of any age, but the symptoms may not appear until the dog is older. This form of joint disease cannot be prevented, but it is treatable.

Treatment

• Once your dog has been diagnosed, your veterinarian can begin a course of appropriate treatment. One of the first is to get your dog down to a proper weight if he is overweight, as this will surely aggravate the symptoms. A proper diet and mild, regular exercise can go a long way to reduce pain. Surgery for hip displasia can be performed, depending on the severity. Medications such as buffered aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. Other supplements, such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been used as well in recent years. Some dog owners have even begun using acupuncture treatments for their dogs. Make sure your dog has a soft bed to lie on and carpet runners to help him grip slippery floors.

Warnings

• Do not treat these conditions without first consulting your veterinarian. Do not give human medication to dogs without consulting your veterinarian. Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen can be deadly to pets.