Has your dog started slowing down, having trouble with stairs, not wanting to play as much or becoming stiff after playing or laying down for an extended period of time? Are they sleeping more during the day or less enthusiastic about their morning walk? Many dog owners think this is a normal part of their canine friend’s aging process, but your dog could have osteoarthritis (OA), which is a degenerative, painful joint disease that inhibits mobility. But, early diagnosis and effective management can greatly improve your dog’s quality of life. Our Fusion Veterinary Orthopedic specialist Dr. David Dycus is committed to helping pets with orthopedic issues such as OA, and we provide information about this painful, debilitating condition.

Canine osteoarthritis basics

OA is a chronic condition characterized by joint tissue inflammation, cartilage degeneration, and bony changes that result in pain and reduced joint mobility. The condition affects a large number of dogs, in fact about 40% of dogs from 8 months to 4 years of age have radiographic OA and of those 40%, 60% of them are clinically affected by osteoarthritis. OA is classified as primary or secondary, with primary OA associated with genetics and aging, and secondary OA, which is the most common in dogs, occurring secondarily to an orthopedic disease, such as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease, elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia.

Canine osteoarthritis causes

A normal joint contains fluid and cartilage that cushions the structure during movement, preventing bone-on-bone friction. OA results in a massive inflammatory condition in the joint that causes an increase in joint fluid production, the release of inflammatory mediators, and a lack of nutritional components to the cartilage, thus reducing the joint’s ability to absorb shock. Many factors can contribute to OA, including:

  • Age — While OA does not develop due to aging alone in most cases, dogs can show more clinical signs and worsening OA as they age.
  • Weight — Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, accelerating the wear and tear on cartilage. In addition, excessive fatty tissue produces inflammatory agents that exacerbate joint inflammation.
  • Breed — Certain breeds, such as Labrador and golden retrievers and German shepherds, are predisposed to OA.
  • Nutrition — Large-breed puppies fed a diet that encourages rapid growth are at increased OA risk.
  • Injury — Injuries, such as fractures and joint dislocations, along with degeneration of the cranial cruciate ligament causing a CCL tear can lead to OA development.
  • Developmental orthopedic conditions — Dogs with developmental orthopedic conditions, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella, are at a higher OA risk.

Canine osteoarthritis signs

Initial OA signs can be subtle, and owners may not realize their dog is uncomfortable. Potential OA signs include:

  • Decreased interest in play and activity
  • More frequent rests
  • Resting in unusual positions
  • Stiffness after resting
  • Difficulty getting up or lying down
  • Difficulty navigating stairs
  • Reluctance to jump on or off elevated areas
  • Behavior changes (e.g., irritability, aggression)
  • Muscle wasting over the affected area

As OA progresses, signs become more obvious. Affected dogs can no longer perform certain daily activities and their body carriage is consistently altered. 

Canine osteoarthritis diagnosis

Canine OA diagnosis typically involves:

  • History — A thorough history of your dog’s signs and ability to perform daily activities is important for understanding their condition progression.
  • Physical/Orthopedic examination — Our team will perform a head-to-tail physical examination, including a gait assessment and joint palpation and manipulation.
  • Blood tests — We may recommend blood testing to rule out other conditions and help determine the best treatment course for your canine friend.
  • Imaging — Imaging the joint using arthroscopy, X-rays, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging is helpful to determine the extent of joint damage. 

Canine osteoarthritis treatment

Canine OA can’t be cured, but can often be effectively managed, and Dr. David Dycus will tailor your dog’s OA treatment plan to their specific needs. Potential strategies include:

  • Weight management — If your dog is overweight, our team will devise a safe weight-loss plan to help reduce strain on their joints.
  • Pain control — Medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), are often necessary to alleviate OA-associated pain.  As OA progresses, additional oral pain medications may be added, as well as intra-articular joint injections. In late stages of OA, to help break the pain cycle intermittent monthly injections to control pain may be recommended. 
  • Activity modification — Arthritic dogs should avoid high-impact exercises, but regular activity, such as swimming and controlled leash walks, will help maintain joint mobility and strength.
  • Physical therapy — Professional rehabilitation techniques, such as hydrotherapy and therapeutic exercises, can benefit OA management.
  • Joint supplements — We may recommend supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, and glucosamine and chondroitin, to help support your dog’s joint health.
  • Environmental modification — You can make environmental modifications to your home to help support your arthritic dog. Suggestions include providing orthopedic beds, placing ramps or stairs near favored elevated resting spots, ensuring floors are non-slip, and elevating food and water bowls. 
  • Surgery — In certain cases, surgery is necessary to improve joint function and reduce pain.

If you are concerned about your dog’s joint health, contact our Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics team, so Dr. David Dycus can evaluate their condition and devise a management strategy to alleviate their discomfort and improve their mobility.