Canine Osteoarthritis Symptoms
|
| You are the person who best knows your dog’s normal behavior, and you should be alert for even subtle changes that may indicate your dog is in pain. Here are a few signs of pain that may be caused by the early onset of osteoarthritis: |
- Stiffness - Does your dog seem to be unusually stiff in the mornings but then get progressively better as the day goes on and he is active? This can be one of the earliest signs that your dog is in pain.
|
- Slower to rise - Do you notice that your dog does not jump up as quickly as she once did when you called her name? Dogs with OA find it hard to stand up if they have been still for very long.
|
- Reduced movement or willingness to play - Did your dog used to chase balls and sticks and now acts like it is a chore to play fetch? It is not because your dog has grown tired of the game.
|
- Reluctance to be touched in a certain area or nipping when touched - Does your dog not like to be touched in certain areas, especially on or around his joints? If your dog shows sensitivity in a certain area, talk to your veterinarian about diagnosing the problem.
|
- Reduced appetite - If your dog does not seem to eat like he used to, it is an important sign that he is in pain? It may be hard for him to stand or reach his bowl to eat. Contact your veterinarian if you think your dog needs his diet changed.
|
- Excessive licking or biting at an area of the body, especially the joints. Discuss these signs with your veterinarian who can assess whether osteoarthritis is causing your dog’s discomfort and determine what you can do to help.
|
Osteoarthritis can’t be cured, but it can be managed in order to:
|
- Reduce pain and inflammation
|
- Slow progression of disease
|
- Improve strength & fitness
|