Arthritis is a common disease found among our four legged friends. Many people can relate to the struggle of living with arthritis. Since our dogs live similar lifestyles to us, they are oftentimes plagued by similar ailments.

Arthritis develops when joint cartilage deteriorates and causes inflammation and pain in the joint. Especially for dogs, prescription anti-inflammatories and surgery can be expensive and come with negative side effects. Natural treatment options for your dog’s arthritis should always be explored first.

The nature of arthritis makes it an ideal disease to be treated naturally. Since inflammation is the ultimate cause, it requires a well-rounded and holistic approach to managing symptoms and delaying its takeover. One of the most powerful treatments for arthritis is hemp oil for dogs. CBD is also helpful in managing pain, anxiety and inflammation. A good combination is key for treatment, including balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

Recognizing Dog Arthritis

Normal dog aging and other life incidents can bring about arthritis in dogs. Be on the lookout for symptoms of arthritis including:

• Limping
• Licking, chewing and biting a certain joint area, such as their elbow or hips
• Behavioral changes such as irritability and lethargy
• Panting and shivering at the same time
• Difficulty getting up and moving
• Reluctance to go up stairs
• Laying down instead of sitting or standing

Causes of Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis in dogs comes about from a range of factors including:

• Genetics - certain breeds are prone to congenital defects that can result in arthritis
• Age - older dogs are more likely to suffer
• Weight - heavy dogs are more prone
• Injury and trauma - damaged cartilage from an injury can lead to arthritis later in life
• Autoimmune disease - can destroy joint cartilage, leading to arthritis
• Infections - sometimes arthritis can be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection from a tick bite or Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Types of Dog Arthritis

Arthritis can occur in any joint (knees, hips, elbows, wrists, etc.) and is associated with a few different types of joint diseases.  

Osteoarthritis

Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is the most common type of arthritis found in dogs, and is usually what we think of when we think, arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in a joint deteriorates, creating friction between the bones and resulting in painful inflammation of the joint. The deterioration of joint cartilage can be asymptomatic and occur over a long period of time, resulting in a painful, inflamed joint and loss of mobility (osteoarthritis) later in life.

Inflammatory joint disease

This less common type of arthritis is usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, sometimes from a tick bite or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Dysplasia

This disease (the most common being hip dysplasia) is when there is malformation of the joint which causes the bones to grind rather than slip into place.

Dog Arthritis Treatment

Treatment for arthritis in dogs generally revolves around alleviating symptoms and discomfort. If the joint becomes so damaged that pain and mobility are impossible to manage, your vet may recommend surgery, steroidal anti-inflammatories and prescription medications for pain. However, you should first try supplements and an anti-inflammatory diet because oftentimes this proactive and natural approach yields better results.

Natural Treatment

Both in preventing and managing arthritis, natural treatment seems to be best. Natural treatment requires a holistic approach to arthritis in your dog, including supporting their health, well-being and happiness every way you can. Consider creating a safe and comfortable place in your house for your dog to relax such as a soft bed in a quiet room. Diet, exercise and overall wellness should be your focus. The goal is to improve mobility, decrease pain and inflammation, and improve joint health.

Hemp oil for dogs

Nutritionally speaking, hemp oil for dogs is the easiest way to administer necessary nutrients and supplements that support your dog’s joints. Your dog’s diet should include oils to provide the important antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids that they don’t get from their food. The benefits of hemp oil for dogs are vast and varying, but particularly for arthritis, hemp oil reduces inflammation and helps improve mobility, which is the ultimate goal for treatment.

Dog arthritis CBD

CBD adds another layer of help beyond nutrition, including pain relief and stress relief. Remember that it’s important to only use high-quality hemp oil, either that is or isn’t infused with CBD.  

Keep in mind that while arthritis in your dog may be difficult to witness, there are things you can do now to help.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information contained or made available through the ColoradoDog website is not intended to constitute or substitute for legal advice or veterinary advice.