If your dog has arthritis, he will display a number of symptoms. You can also tell if your dog is affected by arthritis judging by his age and getting some specific tests done at a vet clinic.
Symptoms of Dog Arthritis
Dog arthritis is the condition described as the swelling of the joints. It can be a painful condition that will make the dog unable to perform certain movements. You will notice a few symptoms such as:
- Inactivity, some dogs may not move all day long.
- Hesitation to jump or perform some movements.
- Limping.
- Lack of flexibility.
- Lethargy. Your dog will not be as cheerful as usual and will not initiate games or will not want to play or go for walks.
- Irritability, especially if the affected limbs or joints are touched. You may notice this when you try to groom your dog or massage him. Your dog will not allow you to perform routine grooming and may become overly aggressive when touched.
- Changed sleep patterns, more sleeping during the day and may be awake at night due to pain.
- Intolerance to cold, and the dog will seek warmer corners or blankets to cover himself with.
- Lack of appetite.
Arthritis and Canines
In dogs, arthritis is a condition that occurs typically after the age of 7 or 8. The condition will affect dogs regardless of breed. However, larger dog breeds are very likely to get the disease at an earlier age. This is a disease of old age and affects a large number of canines (approximately 1 in 4 dogs will have a form of arthritis). However, even younger dogs may be affected by it. The arthritis may be mild or more severe. The skeletal system is affected and the dog will be in pain due to the swelling of the joints.
Specialized Tests
To determine whether the dog has arthritis, you will have to consult a specialist. A vet will be able to establish if the dog has joint swelling. X-rays can be helpful in determining the diagnosis. The vet may choose to perform a bone density test. The glucosamine in the bones may also be determined, and this test is important, because a lack of sufficient amounts of glucosamine causes the joint swelling and the pain.
Treatment for Arthritis
Arthritis is not a reversible condition and there is no cure for it, but the pain can be controlled with pain medication. The flexibility of the joints can also be improved by supplementing the dog's diet with vitamins and synthetic glucosamine.
Gentle massages using herbal oils can be beneficial and reduce the discomfort, increasing the dog's mobility. Hydrotherapy may also be recommended.
The dog should also exercise on a daily basis. Swimming is an activity that is recommended for dogs with arthritis, as it won't hurt the joints and will be pain free for the dog.