Arthritis is a degenerative condition that affects one or more joints. One of the most common types of arthritis that dogs suffer from is Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease). 20%-30% of all dogs will suffer from Osteoarthritis during their lifetime. Though older dogs suffer more, the problem also can affect younger dogs as well. It can be brought on by a host of joint conditions such hip dysplasia, damage to ligaments, patella luxation, and joint trauma. Large-breed dogs are affected more often than small dogs, due to the extra strain placed on joints and ligaments
Causes
It is caused by a deterioration of joint cartilage, followed by pain and loss of range of motion of the joint. Cartilage is the joint protective tissue that basically provides shock absorption during movement. The reduction of cartilage surrounding the joint leads to increased friction and inflammation. This erodes the bone and ultimately interferes with normal joint movement. Eventually, the joint cartilage can wear away to the point that you get a “bone on bone” effect which can be a major source of pain.
Predisposition for Canine Osteoarthritis
Dogs with patellar luxation (slipping of the kneecap to the side of the joint), or with abnormal shape of joint surfaces, such as hip or elbow dysplasia (abnormal development) are typically predisposed to OA (i.e. German Shepherds who have a 35% rate of OA).
Though predisposition is typically the underlying cause of OA, any abnormal strain on the joint (trauma, obesity, etc.) can result in a dog developing arthritis.
How to recognize
- Slow to rise from a resting position
- Reluctant to climb steps
- Tires easily or lags on walks
- Appears stiff or even limp after activity
If your dog has any of these symptoms they may be suffering to some degree from Osteoarthritis.
What to do?
Degenerative joint disease is incurable, but treatment can substantially improve the dogs’ life. Here are some basic things you can do to improve your dogs’ condition.
- Control their weight
- Make sure their sleeping area is soft and dry
- Moderate, but not excessive exercise
- Use chondroprotective agents such as Gucosamine sulfate, MSM, and Chondroitin such as found in RJX for Dogs to repair joint cartilage and prevent canine arthritis.
The role of Glucosamine in Joint Health
Glucosamine is a precursor for glycosaminoglycans, which are a major component of joint cartilage. So in effect, glucosamine provides the building materials for healthy joints. Thus, there has been great interest in glucosamine supplementation to prevent cartilage degeneration and treat arthritis. So now it is ubiquitous in all joint support formulas for both humans and pets.
What have the studies utilizing glucosamine in dogs shown?
Generally, the studies have shown that glucosamine supplementation has a positive effect in treating canine osteoarthritis. Primarily, these have been associated with its role as a glycosaminoglycan precursor. Again, glycosaminoglycans are the building blocks for cartilage. To reiterate the power of glycosaminoglycans in joint health; in one study, pups that were predisposed to hip dyslpasia were given glycosaminoglycan sulfates, and it greatly reduced the incidence of dyslpasia. Here is a sampling of the glucosamine–inclusive studies:
- Study showed glucosamine to be effective in production of cartilage Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2001 Jan;9(1):14-21. Effects of an orally administered mixture of chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and manganese ascorbate on synovial fluid chondroitin sulfate 3B3 and 7D4 epitope in a canine cruciate ligament transection model of osteoarthritis.
- A study of thirty-five dogs showed a glucosamine combo formula to greatly reduce pain and severity of the condition. Vet J. 2007 Jul;174(1):54-61. Epub 2006 May 2. Randomized double-blind, positive-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate for the treatment of dogs with osteoarthritis.
- In this study, a glucosamine combo formula demonstrated a reduction in the severity of cartilage breakdown and a return of the repaired joint to a more normal physiologic state. Publication: Veterinary Orthopedic Society, 25th Annual Conference, February 1998
- Discussion of glucosamine sulfate's role in halting or reversing joint degeneration. This was associated with its ability to act as an essential substrate for glycosaminoglycan production and thus be a critical component in the rebuilding and support of connective tissue. Authors comment on glucosamines role as an agent to control pain and slow down or reverse the degenerative condition of the joint. Publication: Alternative Medicine Review, Jun 1999
Dosage, Form, and Delivery
We hear a lot of debate about which form is best. The most important thing of course is to get the proper dosage of glucosamine. Based on the research, and on what we have seen in working with animals, good guidelines to follow are:
| Under 10 lbs | 250 mg |
| 10 - 24 lbs | 500 mg |
| 25 - 49 lbs | 750 mg |
| 50 - 100 lbs | 1000 mg |
| Over 100 lbs | 1500 mg |
Complementary Substances Chondroitin and MSM
In joint supplements for dogs, you will typically see glucosamine combined with both chondroitin sulfate (up to a 1000mg’s per day,) and with Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) (up to 1500 mgs per day). This will provide for comprehensive support for joints. Following the above guidelines will make sure that your canine has all the building blocks for cartilage growth and support.
Doing these things will decrease the rate of pressure on the joints and allow for the nutritional support that will strengthen and build cartilage. The result will be a pet that is strong and mobile again.
What to expect and when?
Though you will likely see some difference in a week, it typically it takes 60-90 days to see the significant change in your dogs when you follow the programs listed here. So be patient and stick with the program, because it typically pays good to great rewards (if the condition is not allowed to get to an advanced stage). After 60-90 days, we have seen amazing things happen with dogs. Animals that were somewhat lame, seemingly on a downward spiral, become vibrant again. Our dogs become excited and happy again to go on their walks, they begin flying up and down the stairs, they sleep better - truly happy and healthy companions!
Remember your dog won’t necessarily give you strong enough signs to know they are in pain. Their quality of life can be improved. Simple steps can make the difference. Don’t wait until you pass the point of no return, keep your dog’s joints healthy throughout its life.
Education can make all the difference
Often people don’t know what to do, or they are daunted by potentially complex solutions (like drugs). As illustrated, there are simple and effective non-invasive steps that can be taken to greatly improve the quality of life in your pet. Our hope is that you implement them and enjoy your life with your pet to the fullest. Education is key to overcoming these debilitating conditions in dogs such as osteoarthritis, please help by sharing this information with others, and by sharing your stories with us.
