Arthritis Symptoms in Dogs

Arthritis is a bone disease that is one of the common dog illnesses. Most dog owners are not aware that as their dog ages, his bones begin to degenerate. Canine arthritis is similar to human arthritis.

Arthritis in Dogs
Inflammation of the bone joints is known as arthritis. The dog suffers from pain, heat and swelling of the joints. There is increase in stiffness and decrease in mobility of the joints.

Causes of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis in dogs is caused by number of factors such as:

• age
• hip dyspepsia
• improper diet
• injury to the bones joints and cartilage
• obesity

Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis symptoms in dogs is very easy to spot. Your dog behavior will have many tell tale signs to indicate development of arthritis.

• A healthy dog will have bright, cheerful eyes and is full of energy. But a dog suffering from arthritis becomes aloof, shows no interest in physical activity. The bright eyes turn to sad, soulful eyes pleading for sympathy.
• Symptoms of arthritis in dogs also include bloody stools, diarrhea and vomiting.
• Simple movements like itching and scratching become painful.
• The dog stops chasing sticks, climbing the sofa and taking walks and other activities that he/she loved doing before.
• The dog may suddenly become aggressive or violent or may become inactive and withdrawn.
• The ears lie flat against their head and the dog continuously licks the affected part.
• The dog may start limping and suffer from stiffness of the joints.
• The dog suffers from weight loss as arthritis affects his appetite.
• Few dogs may develop fewer, a symptom of advanced form of arthritis.
• Dogs with good muscle form and build may lose their muscle tone due to decrease in amount of exercise and physical activity.

Treatment of Arthritis in Dogs
Consult the veterinarian regarding the various dog arthritis supplements available to treat dog arthritis. Give plenty of rest and proper diet for the dog to recover. Provide dog beds that can help him sleep comfortably and ease the pain. Makeshift ramps made from plywood boards should be provided to the dog climbing stairs. Give a warm dog blanket during nights to protect your dog from nibbling winter bites. You should take extra care of your dog if it shows any symptom of arthritis.

Keep a close watch on the above arthritis symptoms in dogs to help provide them with timely treatment, as prevention is better than cure. Remember it is very painful to see your dog suffer from arthritis pain. It is our moral responsibility to provide the best possible dog care to our loyal friend suffering from arthritis.