As our beloved four-legged friends age, they become more susceptible to conditions like arthritis and muscle loss. By recognizing the early signs and taking preventive measures, we can help our dogs maintain their quality of life and mobility well into their golden years. Let’s explore how to detect these issues early and what steps we can take to protect our furry friends.
Detecting Early Signs of Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition in older dogs, but it can also affect younger dogs due to injuries or genetic predisposition. Here are some early warning signs to watch for:
Changes in Mobility and Behavior
- Stiffness, especially after rest or long periods of inactivity
- Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or engage in previously enjoyed activities
- Limping or favoring certain legs
- Decreased willingness to play or exercise
- Changes in posture or gait, such as a “bunny hop” walk
Physical Changes
- Swollen joints
- Muscle atrophy, particularly in the hind legs
- Visible thinning or uneven muscle tone
Behavioral Changes
- Increased irritability or changes in temperament
- Lethargy or sleeping more than usual
- Difficulty getting comfortable or restlessness
Recognizing Muscle Loss
Muscle atrophy often accompanies arthritis but can also occur independently. Look out for these signs:
- Thinning muscles, especially in the hind legs
- Difficulty supporting body weight
- Dragging paws or crossing legs when walking
- Decreased overall mobility and energy levels
Protecting Against Arthritis & Muscle Loss
Prevention and early intervention are key to managing these conditions. Here are some strategies to help protect your dog:
Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Excess weight puts additional stress on joints and muscles. Keep your dog at a healthy weight through proper diet and portion control.
Regular, Appropriate Exercise
- Engage in low-impact activities like swimming or short walks
- Consider underwater treadmill exercises for dogs with mobility issues
- Gradually increase activity levels to avoid overexertion
Nutrition and Supplements
- Provide a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties
- Consider joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin, under veterinary guidance
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
- Schedule regular check-ups to catch any issues early. Your vet can perform physical exams and may recommend imaging tests if arthritis is suspected.
Home Modifications
- Provide soft, supportive bedding to ease joint pressure
- Use ramps or steps to help your dog access furniture or cars
- Ensure good traction on slippery floors to prevent injuries
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Consult with a veterinary rehabilitation therapist for tailored exercise plans
- Consider treatments like acupuncture, massage, or laser therapy
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to consult your veterinarian:
- Persistent limping or changes in gait
- Sudden decrease in activity levels or appetite
- Visible joint swelling or muscle loss
- Signs of pain when touched or during movement
Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly improve your dog’s comfort and quality of life. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your canine companion stay active, healthy, and happy for years to come.
Ready to Learn More?
Think your dog may be showing signs of muscle loss or arthritis? Know for sure by taking our online assessment.
Read more on our blog to learn:
- Signs, Prevalence, & Risk of Arthritis in Dogs.
- How Arthritis is Diagnosed & Treated in Dogs.
- Senior Dog Mobility: Understanding Osteoarthritis & Muscle Loss
- How Laser Therapy Works & Why It’s Our Most Popular Pain Relief
- How PEMF Works & Why Dr Doug Uses It For His Pets
- How Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Regenerates Joint Tissue
- Why Your Pet’s Weight Is Essential to a Long, Pain-Free Life
- Home Exercises You Can Do to Help Your Pet’s Strength & Mobility
To see all the products we recommend to prevent muscle loss, ease joint pain, and delay progression of arthritis in your dog:
- Joint Products for Dogs
- Joint Products for Dogs & Cats
- Or, read this blog to learn which supplements are best for your pet’s specific stage
To see all the products we recommend to help keep your pet active and at their ideal weight:
- Automatic Feeders for Dogs
- Enrichment Products for Dogs
- Rehab & Exercise Products for Dogs & Cats
- Food & Pet Scales for Dogs & Cats
- 24/7 Remote Monitoring (Health, Activity, GPS tracking) for Dogs & Cats
Author: Cheryl Miller, RVT, CVBL, FFCP (Veterinary), VCC
If you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss arthritis or muscle loss in your dog, please call or text us at (843) 966-3362. If you’re a current client, you can also schedule an appointment with Dr. Doug Cifranick online, or you can schedule a virtual appointment directly with Cheryl here.
Our mission is to provide convenient, fear-free, personalized pet care and our blog allows us to share important educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after using them, we earn a small commission, which helps support this blog at no cost to you. Keep in mind, we only link to quality products we use ourselves and feel are beneficial for our clients and patients.
References:
- Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Osteoarthritis in Dogs. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/bone,-joint,-and-muscle-disorders-of-dogs/osteoarthritis-in-dogs
- Purina. (n.d.). Dog Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment. https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/health/arthritis-in-dogs
- American College of Veterinary Surgeons. (n.d.). Osteoarthritis in Dogs. https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/osteoarthritis-in-dogs
- World Small Animal Veterinary Association. (n.d.). Osteoarthritis in Dogs. https://wsava.org/
- American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Arthritis in Pets. https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/arthritis-pets
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (n.d.). Canine Arthritis. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/