It is extremely common in older canines for them to develop some degree of dog arthritis as they become older. The level this disease affects the pet has to do with several factors which include the type of breed they are and also their genetics. I'll discuss here both of these issues and also some factors which can be controlled by the owner when a pet is diagnosed with osteo arthritis.
Got arthritis is a degenerative disease which attacks the tissue inside the joints. Osteoarthritis in canines is exactly the same type of disease which is found in many humans. There is no cure for the disease in dogs or humans but there are treatments which can't ease the symptoms somewhat.
With respect to the breed of your pet, larger canines are more susceptible to dog arthritis within our small breed dogs. One of the main reasons for this fact is that heavier dogs suffer from more stress on their joints then do lighter weight dogs. Your dog arthritis is present, this added burden on the joints simply aggravates the condition. Additionally, large breed dogs have a shorter lifespan and problems, such as dog arthritis, are often magnified and occur earlier in dog years then do the same diseases in smaller pets.
Another cause of osteoarthritis, and won the pet owner has no control over, is simply genetics. Just as with people, some of our pets are more genetically inclined to some conditions that are others. There of course is nothing that can be done if this is the case with your canine.
One of the most important factors affecting the progression and severity of canine arthritis that owners can have control over is the current weight of their pet. Overweight animals have more problems than do those with proper weights. It is so very important as an owner that you monitor and aggressively manage your dogs proper weight. All things being equal, overweight animals have far more problems with joint arthritis then do those who are slightly on the lean side. It may be difficult to achieve weight loss for control in older canines but it's very important when attempting to control the symptoms of dog arthritis.
All we seek your veterinarians advise when you suspect osteoarthritis has become an issue in your pet. He or she will suggest several treatment options that can make your dog's life much happier and less painful while suffering from the arthritic problems. Many of the alternative treatments involve using all-natural glucosamine products which are safe and highly effective in mitigating the painful effects of dog arthritis.
As a side note, be aware that many of the prescription alternatives for treating the disease have many side effects, some of them quite severe, and it's important to ask your vet the details about these issues before giving your pet the prescribed medications. Dog join arthritis is a serious disease that can be managed effectively with proper supervision and supplementation products.
