Table of Contents
Arthritis is a medical condition that affects both humans and dogs. It is caused by rubbing together of joints and bones and occurs due to the loss of cartilage. It can cause pain and stiffness in the bones.
Arthritis is a painful condition affects dogs due to lots of reasons which include old age and size. It is important to pay attention to your dog if you suspect they might be suffering from this condition. An untreated arthritis can progress into a degenerative joint disease which can affect the quality of life of your canine friend. If detected on time, there are a lot of home remedies that can be used to treat this condition.
In this post, we will go into detail on everything there is to know about managing dogs with arthritis at home.
Why Do Dogs Have Arthritis?
Before we go into details on natural remedies for dog arthritis pain, it is important to know why this condition occurs. This will help you to understand it better.
Just as aging affects humans, dogs are not left out of the process. The most common cause of arthritis in dogs is old age. As they age, the cartilage in their joints gets thin and weak. This makes them more susceptible to developing arthritis.
If you have a bigger dog, there is also a chance that they might suffer from Arthritis. Just as larger dogs can develop arthritis, smaller dogs that are overweight can develop it too. Their body weight puts pressure on their joints and this can put a lot of pressure on their bones.
Another factor that can damage your dog’s joints is injuries. If your dog has damaged ligaments or fractures, this can increase their chance of developing arthritis. Some breeds of dogs are also prone to this condition due to their body structure and size. Dogs like Great Danes, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Golden Doodles are more susceptible to developing Arthritis. This is because they put lots of pressure on their joints and bones.
Dogs that suffer from arthritis experience pain due to the rubbing together of their bones without proper joint cushioning. The friction of the bone can affect their day-to-day movement and the quality of their life.
Signs of Arthritis in Dogs
If you are a dog parent, you should be aware of the signs and symptoms that your dog might be suffering from arthritis. Detecting this at an early stage and seeking help can help your dog manage this chronic condition.
Below are some of the symptoms of arthritis:
- Fatigue: The daily activities of your dog will decrease and be followed by extreme tiredness.
- Mobility: Arthritis affects the mobility of dogs. If your dog is having problems getting up or squatting, you might need to pay close attention to them.
- Frequent Accidents: Having frequent falls around the house is not normal and can be a symptom of early-onset arthritis.
- Stiffness and Pain: If you notice your dog is experiencing pain when they get touched, or their hind legs are stiff and not movable, this can be a sign of arthritis.
Other symptoms of arthritis include sudden weight gain, irritability, decrease in energy, and so on. A sudden behavioral change in your dog can also be a sign that all is not well. These and many more can be the symptoms you need to look out for as a pet parent.
Once you notice one or two of these symptoms, you need to start looking for help either with natural remedies or medical aid. Detecting arthritis early can help your dog more than you know it.
Home Remedies to Help Dogs with Arthritis
Even though there is no cure, as a dog parent, you must know how to manage dog arthritis at home. Below are some of the ways to help manage dog arthritis at home:
- Braces: These are designed to provide dogs with stability and support. There are lots of orthopedic dog braces that can help reduce pressure on joints. This will help and provide comfort to active dogs. You can get one to help your dog deal with the pain that comes with arthritis.
- Healthy Weight: An obese dog is prone to developing arthritis. Helping to maintain your dog’s size can make a huge difference in managing the pain that comes with arthritis. You can help them watch their diet and provide healthier meals for them. Helping them exercise can also help them shed some weight. Make sure your dog is active and eats a balanced diet. A vet can provide you with a great diet for an arthritic dog.
- Joint Supplements: There are lots of supplements that can help repair damage to a dog’s cartilage. They have been shown to help support the joint health of dogs and can be gotten from vet pharmacies. Including supplements that are rich in antioxidants in your canine friend’s diet can help manage arthritis.
- Fish Oil: This is one of the most common supplements that are used to manage arthritis in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids have inflammation properties and can help with weak or damaged cartilage. This can be found in sardines and salmons.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is a common chemical compound that helps to deal with inflammation and pain and is usually found in marijuana. It can help to deal with the discomfort and pain that comes with dog arthritis.
If given in its appropriate dosage, it can help your dog manage their arthritis pain and increase their activity. This is an excellent option but you should consult a vet for the appropriate dosage for your dog.
When Should I See a Vet?
Even though there are lots of natural remedies for dog arthritis pain, medical consultation is another great option especially if nothing seems to be working. If you have tried everything for your dog and it seems the condition keeps getting worse, it is advisable to schedule a visit with a veterinarian. They will conduct a physical examination and provide necessary recommendations to manage your dog’s pain.
Getting your dog into physical therapy can also help them deal with and manage their arthritis. It is important to manage this condition early as it can cause damage if left untreated.
You can also decide to speak to a vet before you start your dog on any natural remedies for Arthritis. This is to ensure you get a professional look into what is wrong with them so that you can help them
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are lots of home remedies to help dogs with arthritis. If you are a dog parent, you should look out for the symptoms of this chronic condition and work towards helping your dog manage. Detecting dog arthritis early and finding a recommendation for it can go a long way to help your canine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the frequently asked questions from pet parents like you who want to know the home remedies to help their dogs with arthritis.
1. What can I give my dog for joint pain at home?
You can give your dog natural supplements like turmeric and omega 3 for joint pain. You can also get your dog orthopedic brace or beg to help them manage the pain.
2. What is the best herb for arthritis in dogs?
There are lots of herbs used for arthritis but the best one according to research is Yucca. You can find this in stores and include it in your dog’s diet.
3. Is Arthritis painful for dogs?
Yes, arthritis is a painful condition in dogs and can lead to stiffness, immobility, and loss of muscle.
4. Can dog arthritis be cured?
No, there is no cure for arthritis. If you suspect your dog has this condition, what you can do is help them to manage it.
