Osteoarthritis in dogs: signs, progression and treatment

In detail

How can I tell if my dog has osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis often develops gradually. Not every dog shows obvious lameness. Instead, changes in movement, activity or everyday behaviour can be the first signs of a problem.

• Stiff first steps after lying down that ease off as the dog warms up
• Less enthusiasm for stairs, jumping and long walks
• The dog licks or nibbles at a joint
• The dog gets up more slowly and lies down more carefully
• Changed behaviour: quieter, more withdrawn or more irritable than usual

These signs are not specific to osteoarthritis and can also occur with other conditions. Especially if a dog repeatedly gets up stiffly, avoids certain movements or changes its behaviour, a veterinary check-up is advisable.

What causes osteoarthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis results from an interplay of various changes within the joint. These include the breakdown of joint cartilage, bone remodelling and inflammatory reactions. It often develops as a consequence of an existing joint disease or injury, for example with hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia or after a cruciate ligament rupture.

Obesity, genetic predisposition and age can also influence its development and progression. Osteoarthritis therefore does not only affect older dogs. With certain orthopaedic conditions, even young dogs can develop joint changes.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed in dogs?

Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a veterinary examination that assesses the gait, joint mobility and any pain responses, among other things. X-rays can also be used to reveal bony changes such as osteophytes or remodelling. However, the extent of the changes on X-rays does not always match the dog’s actual symptoms. A dog can show marked radiographic changes and yet have relatively few symptoms, or vice versa. It is therefore important to consider the clinical signs and movement behaviour alongside imaging.

How is osteoarthritis treated in dogs?

As osteoarthritis is a chronic disease, treatment usually consists of several coordinated measures. The aim is to reduce pain, maintain mobility and support the dog’s quality of life for as long as possible.

• Weight management: in overweight dogs, weight loss can take strain off the joints and reduce symptoms
• Adapted exercise: regular, controlled activity supports mobility and helps maintain muscle. Amount and intensity should be adapted to the individual dog
• Physiotherapy: targeted exercises can help improve mobility, muscle strength and coordination
• Medication: medicines prescribed by a vet can reduce pain and inflammation
• Everyday adjustments: non-slip floors, suitable ramps and an easily accessible bed can make daily life easier

Which measures make sense depends on the affected joint, the severity of the disease and the dog’s individual needs, among other things. The treatment plan should therefore be reviewed regularly by a vet.

How can gait analysis support the treatment of osteoarthritis?

In dogs with osteoarthritis, movement patterns can change gradually. Because owners get used to these changes and not every limitation is recognisable as obvious lameness, objective gait analysis can usefully complement the clinical assessment. With an IMU-based system such as LupoGait, temporal gait parameters, asymmetries between the limbs and (depending on the sensor configuration) joint movements can be recorded, for example. Repeated measurements make it possible to document changes in gait over a longer period and compare them with earlier results. This information can support vets and physiotherapists in monitoring progress. However, whether a treatment is working well enough or should be adjusted must always be judged on the basis of the overall clinical findings. Gait analysis alone does not allow direct conclusions about pain or the effectiveness of individual medicines.