Dog joint problems have always been a headache for dog parents, especially some large dogs, such as Samoyeds and Golden Retrievers, which have inherited joint problems. So what are the main types of joint problems in dogs, and how are they treated? Let’s follow the editor’s experience and take a look!

1Degenerative arthritis

Degenerative arthritis is a non-infectious, progressive disease that affects the joints. Normal articular cartilage is white, smooth and translucent. It is composed of chondrocytes and a sponge-like matrix surrounding the chondrocytes. The main components of this matrix are collagen, polysaccharide protein and water. In the early stages of degenerative arthritis, the cartilage will appear yellow and opaque, with some of the surface softening and becoming rough. The softened cartilage will crack and wear away, exposing the underlying hard bone. At the same time, the changed cartilage reorganizes and becomes harder, and the remaining cartilage begins to wear away.

Cause Because of joint instability or aging. In older animals, it is senile degenerative arthritis, while in young animals, it includes trauma, blood stasis, abnormal joint structure, cruciate ligament rupture, kneecap dislocation, or osteochondritis fractures.

Symptoms Mild hypomobility, stiffness, reluctance to play, and dislike of long walks. Because the affected joints vary, mid-term symptoms include slowness in getting up, slowness in going up and down stairs, and an inability or unwillingness to jump. As the disease progresses to more severe stages, the animal may refuse to stand and walk. Cold and wet weather often makes symptoms worse, not just because of the cold temperatures but because air pressure also plays a role.

Treatment Use aspirin or a stronger pain reliever to control pain. Because steroid drugs have considerable side effects, they should be used only when other drugs are ineffective. These analgesics should be sufficient to maintain the animal's normal ability to walk, jog, and swim. Swimming is the best exercise because it allows the greatest range of motion with minimal weight. Overly strenuous exercise should be avoided. Overweight animals should lose weight. If you choose surgical treatment, you will need to perform passive stretching and bending exercises to avoid joint stiffness after surgery, and then start light exercise and gradually move toward regaining full mobility.

2Infectious arthritis

Infectious arthritis Infectious arthritis is an infection caused by organisms penetrating the bone fluid capsule. The most common is bacterial arthritis, especially Staphylococcus aureus.

Cause 1. Puncture injury of joint. 2. Bacteremia. 3. Osteomyelitis spreads to joints.

Symptoms Swelling, heat, pain, and occasionallyThe surrounding skin is red and swollen. More than one joint may be affected. The body temperature often rises, and patients may suffer from low spirits, occasional anorexia, refusal to exercise, or lameness.

Treatment In addition to going to the pet hospital for some physical therapy, medication should also be supplemented. Dogs with arthritis are given Arthritis Gold Edition, which has obvious effects on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and restoring joint bearing capacity.

The editor recommends that you observe your dog more often, detect and treat it early, and nip your dog's arthritis in the bud.