What is dog arthritis?
Sometimes called degenerative joint disease, arthritis is the leading cause of pain in dogs, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Although there is no cure for the condition, treatments are available to help reduce your dog’s discomfort.IdentificationDog arthritis occurs when the material that insulates and cushions a dog’s joints, cartilage, becomes worn down or destroyed. The condition may develop due to an injury, a poor diet or an infection that affects the bones.PrevalenceArthritis typically occurs in middle-aged to older dogs, reports the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Large breeds of dogs are more likely to develop the condition than smaller dogs.EffectsWithout protective cartilage, the bones in a dog’s affected joint become painful and swelling often develops. Dogs often become stiff as a result and are less active due to their discomfort, explains the ASPCA.Time FrameDog arthritis is a progressive disorder, meaning it develops o
