As the temperatures drop, you might also notice a decline in the activity level of your canine companion. That is no coincidence. Arthritis in dogs is a common yet often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact a pet’s quality of life. The weather can considerably affect how our dogs act and feel.
At BioZyme®, makers of Vitalize® pet products, we staff our team with pet lovers. We tend to talk about our dogs more than our families. We thought it was important to get to the bottom of arthritis in dogs and provide you with a handy guide. This guide explores the causes, signs and treatment options to help our fellow pet owners manage and possibly alleviate their dogs’ discomfort. After all, a happy dog loves us unconditionally. And we can’t ask for more than that!
Causes of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis in dogs is an umbrella term that refers to inflammation of the joints, which can cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. The condition is most often associated with aging, but it can also affect younger dogs. Understanding the causes can be helpful in both prevention and management.
Let’s explore 3 of the key causes of arthritis in dogs:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis in dogs. It results from the gradual wear and tear of the joint cartilage, which acts as a cushion between bones. Over time, the cartilage wears away, causing bones to rub against each other and leading to pain and inflammation. This degeneration can be caused or accelerated by factors such as:
Age
The deterioration of joints becomes more apparent as dogs grow older.
Genetics
Particular breeds are more predisposed to arthritis. For example, large or giant breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds pose a higher risk.
Joint Abnormalities
Conditions like hip dysplasia in dogs, elbow dysplasia or luxating patella can lead to early onset arthritis.
Obesity
Excess weight strains joints, increasing the likelihood of wear and tear.
Previous Injuries
Trauma from accidents or repeated stress from activities like agility training can damage joints over time.
2. Inflammatory Joint Disease
While osteoarthritis is mechanical, inflammatory joint diseases result from infections or autoimmune conditions where the dog’s immune system attacks its own joint tissues. Causes may include:
Bacterial Infections
Bacteria introduced through injuries or bloodstream infections can lead to joint inflammation.
Tick-Borne Diseases
Illnesses like Lyme disease can trigger inflammation.
Autoimmune Diseases
Conditions such as immune-mediated polyarthritis involve the immune system targeting healthy joint tissue.
3. Developmental Disorders
Although older dogs typically suffer from arthritis, puppies and young dogs may experience joint conditions that set the stage for arthritis later in life. These disorders include:
Hip Dysplasia
Improper development of the hip joint can lead to a loose or poorly fitting joint, causing cartilage damage over time.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is an abnormal development of the elbow joint that can result in a lifetime of joint issues. It’s not curable, but it is manageable.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
Detecting arthritis in dogs early can help slow its progression and ease discomfort. However, dogs often show their human tendencies. They are often stoic and may not display obvious signs of pain until the condition has advanced.
As their owner and caretaker, you should look for the following symptoms:
Decreased Activity
Dogs with arthritis are typically less willing to play, run or engage in physical activities they once enjoyed. If your furry friend was always up for a game of fetch and no longer wants to retrieve the ball, this could be a sign of arthritis in dogs.
Stiffness & Lameness
These symptoms are often more pronounced after rest or in the mornings and may improve as the dog “warms up” throughout the day.
Difficulty Rising or Lying Down
Think about your own stiff joints when it is time to shift positions. Dogs may struggle to get up from a resting position or have trouble lying down comfortably.
Reluctance to Climb Stairs or Jump
Arthritis in dogs can make moving around painful. Movements that involve bending joints, like climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture are challenging for dogs with arthritis.
Limping or Favoring a Limb
Dogs may limp or use a limb less frequently, especially after exercise. If you see them favoring one side or limping more, this could be sign of arthritis.
Swollen Joints
Some dogs have visibly swollen or tender joints.
Behavioral Changes
Pain can lead to irritability, reduced interest in socializing or even aggression in severe cases. Watch for behavioral or mood changes in your dog and other visible symptoms.
Muscle Atrophy
Reduced use of affected limbs can lead to muscle loss, especially in the hindquarters.
Changes in Posture
Dogs may arch their back or shift weight away from painful joints.
Diagnosing Arthritis in Dogs
Once you notice any of these signs, a veterinary visit is crucial. Diagnosing arthritis involves a combination of physical examination, medical history and diagnostic tests that include:
- X-rays: These can reveal joint degeneration, bone spurs and other structural abnormalities.
- Joint Fluid Analysis: To rule out infections or immune-mediated conditions, a vet may analyze joint fluid. One vet lab, VDI laboratory, recommends Vitalize Trixsyn as part of its test and treat procedure.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify underlying conditions, such as infections or autoimmune disorders.
Treatment Options for Arthritis in Dogs
While we would typically start with preventative measures for your fur child, arthritis in dogs is rather inevitable. It is a chronic and progressive condition; however, various treatments can slow its progression, reduce pain and improve your dog’s quality of life. A comprehensive approach is often the most effective.
The Vitalize team has compiled 6 treatment options for your consideration. However, we always recommend establishing a relationship with your veterinarian long before any symptoms rear their ugly head. It is important to have a veterinarian-client relationship established with your local pet doctor to keep your dog healthy and thriving.
One of the benefits of this trusted relationship is that your vet or vet technician will know what your healthy pet looks and acts like. And frankly, that is a great thing. Another benefit is if you take your dog to the veterinarian for regular checkups, they’ll be more comfortable visiting the vet in the future. That way, they’re less likely to act up or struggle with dog anxiety when you do go for something more serious.
Here is that list of treatment options:
1. Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is critical for arthritic dogs. Excess weight puts unnecessary stress on joints, intensifying pain and accelerating cartilage breakdown. A veterinarian can help devise a diet plan that promotes gradual weight loss while still ensures adequate nutrition.
2. Exercise & Physical Therapy
Regular, low-impact exercise is essential to maintain joint function and muscle strength. Activities like walking, swimming or gentle play sessions can keep your dog limber without causing stress. Physical therapy and therapeutic exercises prescribed by a vet or a canine rehabilitation specialist can further aid joint health and mobility.
3. Pain Management Medications
Medications play a crucial role in managing arthritis symptoms. As always, read and follow label directions. Consult your veterinarian if any problems or unusual side effects occur. Commonly prescribed drugs include:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These reduce pain and inflammation. However, you should only provide these drugs to your pet under the supervision of a veterinarian. They have a variety of potential side effects that could be dangerous to your dog if not administered correctly or in the proper dosage.
Analgesics
Pain relievers like tramadol may be prescribed alongside or instead of NSAIDs.
Corticosteroids
In severe cases, your vet may prescribe steroids to reduce inflammation. Try to avoid their long-term use due to side effects.
4. Alternative Therapies
Non-traditional treatments can be valuable, often used in conjunction with other therapies. Some of these are still in the development phases or may not be available in all areas:
Acupuncture
This ancient practice, using very thin needles, can relieve pain and promote healing in some dogs. Acupuncture is a holistic Chines-originated treatment. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, called acupoints, where nerves, muscles and connective tissue meet. It sounds painful, but is an alternative treatment that helps with mobility and inflammation.
Massage Therapy
Gentle massage can improve circulation, reduce muscle tension and promote a sense of well-being. Much like acupuncture, you must know exactly the pressure point to massage for the treatment to be effective.
Cold Laser Therapy
This treatment uses light to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.
Stem Cell Therapy
In some cases, stem cell therapy may be used to repair damaged joint tissue, though it’s still an emerging treatment.
5. Joint Supplements
Nutraceuticals like hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health, including arthritis in dogs. While these supplements are not a cure, they may slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation, particularly in the early stages of arthritis.
Vitalize offers two joint supplements for your furry dog friends.
Vitalize® Trixsyn® Canine
Vitalize Trixsyn Canine is a Level 1 liquid joint support for dogs that supports joint health using hyaluronic acid. All Trixsyn products feature MHB3®, a patented high molecular weight hyaluronic acid. This ingredient supports hip and joint health and boosts mobility.
Vitalize® Trixsyn® Canine Performance
Vitalize Trixsyn Canine Performance is a Level 2 liquid product for dogs that supports total mobility utilizing hyaluronic acid and astaxanthin. It provides next level support by supporting hip, joint and soft tissue health. The performance formula helps maintain a normal inflammatory response and supports normal exercise recovery. The ingredients feature MHB3 and astaxanthin, a natural red algae-derived antioxidant, assists with soft tissue health, muscular recuperation, and exercise recovery.
6. Surgical Options
In advanced cases of arthritis in dogs, surgery could be necessary. Surgical options include:
Joint Replacement
Procedures like hip replacement can restore mobility in severe cases.
Arthroscopy
Minimally invasive techniques can help clean out joint debris and improve function.
Joint Fusion
In cases where movement causes significant pain, fusing the joint may provide relief.
Environmental & Lifestyle Modifications
Sometimes even simple changes around your house can also make life easier for dogs with arthritis. We know that your dogs offer unconditional love, so you will do most anything to keep them comfy, too. Here are just a few final suggestions to help ease their pain and increase their comfort level.
Orthopedic Dog Beds
Memory foam beds can provide extra support and relieve pressure on sore joints.
Non-Slip Flooring
Rugs or mats can help prevent slipping, reducing the risk of injury.
Ramps & Steps
Providing your fur baby access to its favorite places, like the couch or car, can eliminate the need for painful jumping.
Elevated Food & Water Bowls
These raised bowls can minimize the need for a dog to bend its neck, reducing strain on joints.
Why Vitalize?
Vitalize is a line of supplements for horses, dogs and cats with proven solutions to keep your animal healthy and performing. Both Vitalize Trixsyn Canine and Vitalize Trixsyn Canine Performance are powered by MHB3 Hyaluronan.
MHB3 Hyaluronan
MHB3 Hyaluronan is a natural hyaluronic acid (HA) bioidentical to the HA naturally produced by the body. That means there is minimal risk of complication or malabsorption.
MHB3 is unique to other hyaluronic acid ingredients on the market due to its oral liquid formulation that allows for quick absorption and maximum effectiveness. Liquid supplementation with MHB3 is research-proven to be 3.8 times more effective than dry forms of hyaluronic acid.
MHB3 and HA are complete supplements. Glucosamine and chondroitin are considered first generation of joint products. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons now recommends against the administration of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint sufferers.
MHB3 currently holds 8 U.S. patents for its role in improving bone and joint health. Some of those include:
- For the prevention and maintenance of osteoarthritis
- For the prevention and maintenance of osteopenia – the precursor to osteoporosis
- For the prevention of osteophytes or bone spurs
- More generally, it has a role in improving joint health.
How MHB3 Helps
MHB3 improves the symptoms of osteoarthritis as well as symptom frequency.
A 30-day course of MHB3 treatment reduces friction within the joint and preserves protective cartilage, preventing the formation of bone spurs. This results in more fluid movement, less pain and increased range of motion.
Treatment with MHB3 decreases markers of bone breakdown, positively impacting bone mineral density and bone formation.
Study-backed outcomes associated with MHB3:
- Tissue hydration
- Anti-inflammation
- Cartilage protection
- Osteophyte prevention
- Pain reduction
- Increased range of motion
Both Trixsyn Canine products are simple to use, require no prescriptions and don’t require the labor or mess of a shot or topical ointment. They come in an easy-to-use pump bottle. Dosage is determined by size and weight, and each dog gets 1 to 3 pumps on their food twice daily, depending on size.
The Final Word
Arthritis in dogs can be challenging to manage, but early detection and a proactive approach to care can make a significant difference. By combining medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments and a quality supplement from Vitalize, pet owners can help their dogs lead more comfortable, active lives.
Remember, a veterinarian is your best partner in diagnosing and managing arthritis, ensuring your dog’s well-being remains a top priority.
Get your Vitalize Today!
If you are looking for a way for your arthritic dog to feel better, we hope you will try Vitalize. While we genuinely believe incorporating Vitalize into their diet will help your pup, our real goal is to provide resources to help you care for your family.
So, support your pet’s joint health with Vitalize Trixsyn. Get your Vitalize today. We have made purchasing Vitalize as easy as possible. You can visit your local dealer to purchase Vitalize products. Locate a dealer near you today.
Perhaps you prefer the convenience of online shopping. You can shop online and have Vitalize delivered right to your front door.
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