What is joint problem?
A dog’s joints take a pounding, from running after tennis balls to jumping off the back deck. But, for some dogs, that’s a problem as more use means more injuries that could lead to joint related problems such as ACL or anterior cruciate ligament tears and osteoarthritis.
Causes for joint problems?
The two major categories of joint problems are developmental and degenerative problems. With Developmental problems like hip or elbow dysplasia, where the joint does not develop correctly in a number of different ways. Degenerative problems are caused due to a number of reasons but the most common cause of arthritis in dogs, is cruciate ligament problems, where the ligament is degenerating over time and causing instability and secondary osteoarthritis. A big portion of this problem is also because of the breeding issue. Breeders are breeding for the traits they want in the dog without any care to what health problems and health risks that new breed of dog will breed.
Limiting a dogs activity
We have improved diagnostics and improved health care. People pay more attention to their dogs and seek care earlier and more often. The most effective non-surgical treatment is weight management and body condition. Trying to get the dog to an ideal weight so it decreases the stress on the joints. This will decrease the inflammation because fat is a source of inflammation in the joints. You should limit activity until you get a good diagnosis and a plan from your veterinarian. If there’s a problem that causes instability, you can do a lot more harm to the joints.
Things to remember
If you’re buying a purebred puppy, check out the health problems in that breed, and check out that specific dog’s lineage. Mostly this information will bring forth some hereditary component. A good breeder will have all that information. Many will volunteer it. But you certainly have the right to ask. And you should ask, especially if you’re interested in one of the larger breeds that are already associated with joint and health problems.
