Symptoms of Canine Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease is the most common form of arthritis experienced by the canine population.  Osteoarthritis affects millions of dogs; of all breeds, ages, and sizes.  Dogs suffering from osteoarthritis undergo a constant deterioration of the articular cartilage in the body’s movable joints. 

As the protective cartilage wears away bone is exposed, allowing two bone ends in a joint to touch each other.  The tissues lining the joint often become inflamed.  This type of arthritis is progressive, reducing the amount of flexibility and causing stiffness in the joints.  Older dogs are more prone to osteoarthritis than younger dogs.

Osteoarthritis occurs as part of the normal aging process.  Secondary degenerative joint disease occurs as a result of hip or elbow dysplasia.

The sooner a dog is diagnosed and treated, the sooner it can return to living as active a life as possible.  The symptoms of osteoarthritis vary according to the severity of the disease.  Diagnostic measures include a complete physical exam, screening for pain, laboratory testing, and radiographs.