What causes arthritis in dogs?

There are many causes of arthritis in dogs, such as sports injuries, diseases, etc., but the main causes are genetic factors, old age, obesity and excessive exercise. Large dogs are very susceptible to arthritis, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, etc. Once arthritis is not treated in time, it will only fall into a vicious cycle:
Articular cartilage is damaged, cartilage fragments and matrix degradation products are detached → when degeneration exceeds regeneration, the quality of joint synovial fluid decreases → further aggravates cartilage damage, Not only does the pain worsen, but the condition also becomes more serious, causing irreversible damage. If not diagnosed and treated in time, the dog may eventually be unable to walk.

Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs

1. After the dog wakes up, its limbs are stiff and it takes more than an hour or even longer to recover;
2. The joints of the claws become fat. , swelling, and pain when touched;
3. The dog keeps licking a certain joint on the body, and may even lose hair locally due to excessive licking;
4. When the dog stands or squats down Seems more difficult;
5. The body will tremble slightly when doing any movement;
6. Appears hesitant when doing sports such as jumping, running, climbing stairs;
7 . Temperament changes, becoming inexplicably irritable, not letting others get close, and even becoming aggressive due to pain.
If the dog shows the above symptoms and lasts for more than 2 weeks, it is best for the dog owner to take the dog to the hospital for further examination!

What to do if your dog has arthritis?

Although osteoarthritis cannot be completely cured, a series of effective management methods can be used to help your dog reduce the pain. For example: weight control, rehabilitation exercises, physical therapy, nutritional support, inflammation and pain management.