Dog Arthritis - German Shepherds
Dog arthritis is very common in older German Shepherds. Larger dogs tend to be more prone to joint problems due to the fact that they are carrying round more weight than smaller dogs. This puts more pressure on the joints and can lead to degenerative problems like arthritis.
Just like us humans, dogs can get the same types of arthritis. It has the same effect and also the same amount of pain can be caused. So it is vital that it is diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. Some German Shepherds are prone to have problems with their back legs in later life anyway, so arthritis doesn’t help the situation at all.
So what types of problems should you look out for?
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia can occur in your puppies as well as older dogs. The first symptoms are that your dog will be unsteady on its feet. It is generally caused by the hip joint being slightly abnormal. The ball and socket joint doesn’t quite fit together as it should. It can be caused by an overweight dog or a dog that is over exhausted and tired.
Osteoarthritis
You have probably already heard of osteoarthritis. It is one of the most
common forms of arthritis in humans. It is the degenerative disease that
breaks down the cartilage between the bones of a joint. So the actual
bones begin rubbing together and this is quite painful in extreme cases.
This form of arthritis can usually be found in older dogs rather than
young ones.
So if German Shepherd arthritis is something that you are concerned about,
just make sure your dog is walking and moving freely. If this changes
then it will be worth getting them to your local vet and see if
any arthritis is apparent. There are treatments available and your vet
will go through them with you.
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