Since the degeneration of the joints and increase in joint inflammation tend to be progressive over time, dogs may go through various stages of osteoarthritis. Sometimes arthritis progresses quickly and other times that progression may take years.
In summary, flare ups are not an uncommon occurrence with a chronic condition of any kind though we do want to minimise them as much as possible. This includes paying attention to exercise levels, not over-exerting your dog and ensuring they receive their prescribed medication at the correct dose and the correct times.
Dog Arthritis Symptoms
However, as the disease progresses and pain increases, it will become more evident that something is wrong. Some of the signs of arthritis in dogs include: Stiffness and difficulty getting up from a sitting or lying down position. Limping, trembling, or tenderness when walking.
So, what causes OA to worsen and suddenly flare up? Sometimes there is no definitive cause, however, too much exercise and unmanaged pain can be triggering factors.
Once present, arthritis always progresses, either quickly or slowly. The lining of the joint becomes inflamed, the cartilage slowly wears away and the bone responds by making new bone – the reason arthritic fingers become knobby over time. The goal of treatment is to preserve and protect the cartilage.
Arthritis is a long-term condition that needs life-long management. Arthritis slowly worsens over time, but if well managed, most dogs can live happily for many years after diagnosis. Let your vet know if you think your dog's pain isn't well controlled or you see symptoms returning.
In summary, the best medical recommendation for dogs with arthritis is that they should exercise regularly, ideally 30-60 minutes every day, and not engage in high-impact activities such as running, jumping and rough play. But, you do have to factor in your dog's quality of life as well.
If your dog has arthritis, grain-free food may be the way to go. Many processed commercial dog foods contain grains such as wheat, rice, soy, and spelt, which can cause your dog's blood sugar levels to fluctuate and increase painful swelling. Limiting the grains in your dog's diet can decrease their inflammation.
Severe Osteoarthritis (STAGE 4)
Other signs include consistent severe lameness, weight shift and abnormal limb loading.
Go for a (slow) walk
That all depends on what your dog can handle — but know the pace will be a little slower and the distance shorter than what you once would have done. Short, leisurely strolls of 5 to 10 minutes might be plenty for some dogs, while others might be able to handle longer walks.
Mild Arthritis, Stage 2
In Stage 2, arthritis becomes clinically significant. Dogs will probably show signs of lameness during some activities, but not in others. Changes in their gait might be seen, as well as subtle changes in their posture, limb loading and weight distribution.
If you have an older dog who has started to slow down on walks and has difficulty getting up and down the stairs, your dog may be suffering from arthritis. This disease, most commonly seen in older dogs, can affect the legs, hips, back, and more—making everyday movements painful.
Neurological Conditions that Mimic Arthritis in Dogs
Congenital, neurodegenerative conditions such as degenerative myelopathy (DM), and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) can cause wobbling, unsteadiness, weakness, and changes in gait. DM is not painful, while IVDD can cause severe pain.
An arthritis flare-up is a period of time with a sudden increase in joint symptoms. During a flare-up, you may have worsened pain, stiffness, or swelling of the joints that may last for one to two days, or even a week or more.
During an acute (sudden) flare up of lameness we advise 3-5 days of complete rest, followed by a gradual return to normal exercise. Otherwise, arthritic dogs need exercise or they become stiff. We advise regular exercise, preferably 2-3 shorter walks a day rather than one long walk.
While 80% of dogs will show signs of arthritis by age 8, 20% of dogs show signs as early as the age of one year. And just like in humans, there are ways to help relieve the symptoms if your dog has arthritis. Weight: It's important to know the optimal weight for your dog's breed.
Fortunately, dogs often live comfortably for years following a DJD diagnosis, so long as proactive steps are taken to manage this condition.
Generally, radiological lesions gradually and slowly increase. However, the pace of this progression can be very variable. In extreme cases, some cases of osteoarthritis may remain stable for decades, while others progress very rapidly to complete destruction of the cartilage in the space of a few months.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are commonly seen in large breed puppies and can cause the early onset of arthritis and pain if not treated. Hip and elbow dysplasia are an especially common problem in large dogs, so watch out if your young pup is due to develop into a larger dog.
It is especially important for the arthritic dog to receive moderate, daily exercise. Exercise Can Go “Swimmingly”! Swimming is an excellent way to improve muscle strength and joint flexibility while limiting weight-bearing stress on all joints.
Attaining and maintaining a lean body conformation through proper nutrition and feeding practices is the most important cornerstone of effective osteoarthritis management and prevention. It has been shown that skinny dogs have less arthritis and a longer life expectancy!
The severity of the lameness is often exacerbated during the night. This happens because of the soreness that builds up from too much activity during the day.
Climbing up and down the stairs is painful for arthritic dogs. Arthritic dogs exert themselves when climbing up and down stairs. Even though the condition may be in its earlier stages, the pain will increase as the condition worsens. So, it can be good in the long run to limit movements up and down the stairs.
Arthritis in dogs can be difficult to deal with because it makes running, jumping, and even walking or sitting very painful. However, over 75% of dogs who suffer from arthritis or severe dysplasia can live comfortable and happy lives with the proper management and vet services.
STAIRS AND RAMPS
Jumping down from a bed or out of an SUV puts a lot of force on the joints and is not recommended for any dog—with or without arthritis! You can use stairs or ramps to help your dog, particularly when getting down/out. Many dogs will also benefit from assistance in getting up or jumping in.