Canine Panosteitis Symptoms

Panosteitis is a debilitating disease that strikes in younger dogs between the ages of about 5 and 14 months, most commonly. It can be seen in dogs of any breed, although it's most common in male dogs of larger breeds. There are a large number of different potential factors that contribute to the development of panosteitis in your pet, including but not limited to genetic factors, stress, metabolism, diet and more. The disease is characterized by a change in bone structure and development of a number of growths and cysts on the bones that can cause different problems for your pet, and in some cases panosteitis can be so severe that the dog must be euthanized. Here's a closer look at the symptoms of panosteitis in dogs.

Lameness

The single most obvious outward sign that your pet is suffering from panosteitis will be an unexplained lameness. You may notice that your young dog is suddenly having difficulty climbing or descending stairs, or he may be reluctant to get up and move around. Watch if he favors a particular leg, or if he seems to walk with a limp or another unusal gait of some kind.

Lethargy

Accompanying the lameness in your pet's legs will be a sense of lethargy. This is not due to the fact that your dog doesn't have the energy to move about, but it's more because of his body being unwilling and unable to move him about as he would like. Take note if your pet suddenly seems reluctant to come and get food, to go outside to relieve himself, to go for walks or rides in the car and any other signs of lameness and lethargy.

Pain

Most dogs suffering from panosteitis will display signs of pain that develop suddenly. This often manifests itself in sudden, aggressive behavior. If your pet is not usually mean or aggressive but suddenly develops these tendencies, it may be a sign that he's in pain. He may also rub his body against a piece of furniture or make yipping noises at your touch. Note also if he seems to take a long time to get up or lie down.

Shifting of Weight

Because panosteitis typically strikes in the hip muscles first, your pet may experience a loss of balance or stability in his rear legs as a result of this disease. This often shows itself in your pet's shifting of his weight from side to side in an unusual manner. It may appear as if your dog is wobbling back and forth, or that he is unable to stand still for any reason.

All of these are potential signs that your pet is suffering from panosteitis. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, and you should be as prompt about getting your pet to the veterinarian as you can at the first sign of any of these symptoms. Speak to your vet about any other questions you may have.

 

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