What is osteoarthritis in dogs?

ONSET OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

Cartilage wears down with movement. In principle, there is nothing wrong with this as long as sufficient new cartilage is produced. When this is not balanced, cartilage will be produced that is less resilient. When joint cartilage is damaged, less synovial fluid is automatically produced. Extra bone may also be produced. The pain and stiffness will reduce your dog’s daily functioning. This is due to the decreased strength and decline in his or her motor skills.

Young dogs of larger dog breeds may be more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis. Yet any dog can come into contact with this rheumatic condition. Osteoarthritis can occur in one or more joints and can result from such things as improper movement, obesity, old age, an abnormality or injury.

OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENT

Once your dog faces osteoarthritis, there is no way to cure it. Your dog will unfortunately have to live with and learn to cope with this physical disability. Of course, once osteoarthritis has been diagnosed, there are ways to reduce the symptoms. First of all, the wear and tear of the cartilage can be slowed down with medication or certain dietary supplements. Medications serve primarily as painkillers, allowing your dog to move more easily. Dietary supplements help counteract inflammation in the joints. These include omega-3, glucosamine and chondroitin.

Despite the fact that exercise can affect the development and progression of osteoarthritis, it is still very important to exercise. This is because exercise also supports muscle building and mobilization of the joints. Do not take long walks, but provide your dog with dosed, shorter walks at a slower pace. Avoid unnecessary awkward movements. Furthermore, swimming can help relax the joints, which will (temporarily) reduce pain and build muscle.

Finally, there is a clear link between osteoarthritis and obesity. On the one hand, this is because the joints of overweight dogs are more quickly overloaded and will therefore wear down faster. On the other hand, it is also true that dogs with osteoarthritis will move less because of the pain and thus gain weight more easily. All in all, being overweight will make osteoarthritis worse.

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