Dogs can fall prey to arthritis, and as dog lovers, everyone is aware of it. However, the general perception is only the older or slow-moving dogs are vulnerable to the above-mentioned issue. However, what we fail to realize is that arthritis can slowly creep in and affect younger dogs, too. Surprisingly, dogs aged one or two have also been reported to be dealing with it.
Since it is unexpected, arthritis in younger dogs often goes unnoticed, or dog owners hardly care to diagnose it. Generally, owners presume their dog is simply exhausted, displaying stubborn behavior, or going through stress that is making them act similarly. Meanwhile, joint damage silently continues to wreak havoc in the background. Thus, understanding how arthritis develops in younger dogs, recognizing the preliminary signs, and taking adequate measures can do a lot in improving the long-term health of a dog.
What is canine arthritis?
In the aspect of dogs, arthritis, more accurately referred to as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a chronic condition that leads to the inflammation and gradual deterioration of joint cartilage. To let you know, healthy joints contain smooth cartilage that acts as a cushion for the bones and helps in friction-free mobility.
When arthritis sets in, the cartilage wears down. As it thins down further or becomes damaged, bones start rubbing against each other, leading to inflammation, pain, reduced mobility, and progressive joint damage in dogs. While age-related wear and tear is common, arthritis in younger dogs is usually linked to underlying structural or genetic conditions.
Reasons that lead younger dogs to develop arthritis
Honestly speaking, arthritis in younger dogs is still a mystery and can happen for no reason. It usually develops secondary to another condition, which can be for the following reasons:
- Hip or elbow dysplasia: One of the most common causes of early arthritis is hip or elbow dysplasia. The condition can be referred to as a developmental defect where the joint does not form appropriately. Since the joint remains unstable or poorly aligned, it experiences abnormal stress, leading to premature cartilage damage. Generally, large and medium breeds are vulnerable to the aforesaid condition, but no breed is completely immune.
- Joint injuries: Trauma can also be responsible in accelerating arthritis in younger dogs. Injuries such as cruciate ligament tears (ACL injuries), fractures, and severe sprains can lead to such joint injuries. In such conditions, even surgical intervention for repairing the joint isn’t enough. Over time, this instability can trigger early degenerative changes.
- Rapid growth in large breeds: In the case of puppies that tend to grow very quickly, especially large and giant breeds, they can develop joint stress during the development stages. Improper nutrition, excessive calorie intake, and incorrect calcium balance can also worsen this risk further. Furthermore, rapid skeletal growth combined with high-impact activity can also cause early joint wear.
- Genetic predisposition: Specific breeds are genetically more susceptible to orthopedic conditions, which can later lead to arthritis. Responsible breeding and health testing can reduce risk, but they cannot eliminate it.
- Obesity in young dogs: Weight gain problem can trigger arthritis. Excess weight is one of the most overlooked factors that later becomes one of the prime contributors to arthritis, even in younger dogs. With each extra pound the dog gains, it exerts immense pressure on joints. Chronic medical stress leads to the breakdown of the cartilage, especially in the hip and knee areas.
Early signs of arthritis in young dogs
As you can understand, arthritis is least expected in younger dogs; early symptoms are often restrained. Here are the signs that dog owners should observe and never ignore:
- Sudden limping and stiffness in the joint areas.
- Stiffness after rest.
- A slight limping tendency after exercise.
- Favoring one leg more than the other at times.
- Reluctance to jump or climb.
- Avoiding stairs.
- Stop leaping onto furniture.
Note, these signs often tend to disappear after movement, which leads the owner to believe the dogs aren’t suffering from any chronic conditions. Apart from the above-mentioned factors, decreased endurance can also be a sign of arthritis setting in. Young dogs with arthritis will become tired quickly when they are out for walks or playing. They may sit down all of a sudden or show reduced interest in activities that it usually relishes.
Watch for the behavioral changes
Chronic pain will directly impact their mood. It is crucial to keep an eye on their behavioral changes, which can be:
- Displaying irritation for no reason.
- Sudden withdrawal.
- Sensitivity when touched near joints.
Muscle loss
Chronic joint discomfort can also lead to reduced use of a particular limb. Over time, this causes muscle atrophy, which in most cases affects the hind legs.
Diagnosing arthritis in younger dogs
Of course, the best way to diagnose arthritis after the above symptoms are observed would be to seek an appointment with a vet. The vet will check for joint swelling, reduced range of motion, responses to pain, and instability.
Radiographs or X-Rays can also be initiated to understand joint irregularities, bone spurs, dysplasia, and degenerative changes. The vet might also want to look at the past medical history of the affected dog, which would include information on past injuries, growth patterns, activity level, and breed predisposition. By examining the aforesaid, it can help in identifying the root cause of the problem.
Treatment options for young dogs with arthritis
Just like humans, for dogs too, arthritis cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. The following methods can help significantly:
- Weight management: As mentioned earlier, maintaining a lean body can do a lot in slowing the progression of arthritis. Even the slightest weight loss can significantly decrease the stress on joints.
- Controlled exercise: As a dog owner, once you know the dog is suffering from arthritis, do not sympathize with it and let it rest all the time. Instead, controlled and low-impact activity can be more beneficial. Activities like leash walks, swimming, and other low-level activities can help their condition a lot. However, remember to avoid repetitive or high-impact jumping, intense fetch sessions, and rough play on hard surfaces.
- Joint supplements: You can make use of common supplements like glucosamine, Omega-3 fatty acids, Chondroitin, and MSM. Each of these supplements can help support cartilage health and reduce inflammation in the long run.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often the best solution as medicines to reduce joint pain and inflammation. Long-term use requires monitoring, especially in young dogs.
- Surgical intervention: When none of the above-mentioned steps fetch any results, and the vet diagnoses it as a severe structural case, surgery becomes inevitable. However, surgical intervention would mainly depend on the age, severity, and overall health of the dog.
Can we prevent arthritis in younger dogs?
Unfortunately, this is something to which we can do the least, but the risks can be considerably reduced by the following methods:
- Choosing responsible breeders: Health-tested parents can play a crucial role in reducing genetic risk for dysplasia and joint issues.
- Managing its growth: By avoiding overfeeding it and using breed-appropriate food, such risks can be reduced. Furthermore, one should avoid excessive calcium supplementation and prevent repetitive high-impact exercise during the developmental stages.
- Watch its weight: Keep a close eye on its weight, as leaner dogs are fitter dogs.
- Build strong muscles: Strong muscles will support joints, and balanced exercise can help increase muscle stability and reduce strain.
Early diagnosis is the key
Diagnosing the problem early can make a significant difference. Accordingly, adequate management policies can be taken. Many young dogs with arthritis still live an active and happy life for years. This becomes possible as the goal isn’t just about controlling the pain, but preserving its mobility and slowing degeneration. Therefore, you should learn to take care of your ageing dog properly.
Last words
Indeed, when dog owners learn that their young dog is suffering from arthritis, it can feel heartbreaking. Subsequently, it can raise concerns and fears about its shortened lifespan and reduced activity. But, as discussed here, arthritis is manageable, and there isn’t anything to worry about. Do remember, dogs can adapt quite well when their discomfort is addressed. With proper care, it will continue to live a normal life as if they are not dealing in any pain on their joints.