Is your dog a little less enthusiastic about his daily walks? Is he reluctant to get up or lie down? Do his joints click as he walks? If so, there’s a chance your buddy is suffering from canine arthritis.
Just as with humans, arthritis in dogs can be one of a variety of types, but the most common is osteoarthritis.
What is Osteoarthritis and what causes it?
Cartilage in joints acts as a buffer between bones. Sometimes, that cartilage degrades and deteriorates, reducing the buffer between bones, sometimes to the point where there is direct bone-to-bone contact, which is extremely painful for the dog.
There is no single cause of arthritis. Genetics and breeding have made certain breeds more susceptible to hip dysplasia, which often leads to arthritis. Obesity in dogs can also contribute to arthritic conditions. Sometimes young dogs can suffer with arthritis if their bones don’t develop correctly. An injury to a limb can also result in arthritis later in life.
Symptoms
If your dog displays some of the following symptoms, you should consult a veterinarian regarding the possibility of canine arthritis: