Research & Studies

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  Dog Joint Disease and Degenerative Myelopathy: Popular Science on Common Dog Breeds and Ages of Onset

  Arlene Dodd

  Jan 14, 2025

  As pet owners, we all want our dogs to be healthy and happy. However, some hereditary or degenerative diseases may affect the quality of life of dogs, among which joint disease and degenerative myelopathy are two of the more common ones. Understanding the susceptible dog breeds and ages of onset of these diseases can help us detect and prevent them early and provide better care for dogs. 1. Joint disease: not just for elderly dogs Joint disease is one of the main reasons that affect a dog's ability to move, and it is not only elderly dogs that will suffer from it. Some dog breeds are more likely to have joint problems when they are young due to genetic factors. 1. Hip dysplasia (CHD): Susceptible breeds: Labrador, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Chow Chow, Bulldog and other medium and large dogs Age of onset: Symptoms begin to appear at 4-12 months and gradually worsen with age Symptoms: lameness, unwillingness to exercise, difficulty getting up, hind limb weakness, etc. 2. Elbow dysplasia (ED): Susceptible breeds: Golden Retriever, Labrador, Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler and other large dogs Age of onset: Symptoms begin to appear at 4-10 months Symptoms: lameness of the forelimbs, swelling and pain in the elbow joints, etc. 3. Patellar luxation (PL): Susceptible breeds: Poodle, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire and other small dogs Age of onset: Symptoms begin to appear around 4 months Symptoms: lameness of the hind limbs, difficulty jumping, abnormal sound in the knees, etc. 4. Arthritis: Susceptible breeds: All dog breeds, especially elderly dogs, overweight dogs, and dogs with a history of joint dysplasia Age of onset: Usually occurs in elderly dogs, but some breeds may show symptoms at a younger age Symptoms: Joint stiffness, pain, limited mobility, etc. 2. Degenerative myelopathy (DM): The invisible killer of elderly dogs Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurological disease that affects the dog's hind limb movement ability and may eventually lead to paralysis. Susceptible dog breeds: German shepherds, boxers, Welsh corgis, West Highland white terriers, etc. Age of onset: Usually occurs in elderly dogs over 8 years old Symptoms: Weak hind limbs, shaky walking, difficulty urinating, etc. 3. Prevention is better than cure: escort for the health of dogs Although some diseases cannot be completely avoided, we can take some measures to reduce the risk of disease and delay the progression of the disease: Choose a regular kennel: Understand the dog's family history and choose a dog without genetic diseases. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight will put extra pressure on the joints and increase the risk of disease. Moderate exercise: Avoid excessive exercise, especially for puppies and older dogs. Regular physical examinations: Detect and treat potential health problems early. Nutritional supplements: Some nutritional supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, can help protect joint health. Pay attention to suitable protective gear in advance, and provide it to the dog in time once the dog shows symptoms to slow down the aggravation of the disease. 4. Pay attention to the behavioral changes of dogs: early detection and timely treatment Dogs can't speak, but they will express discomfort through behavioral changes. As owners, we need to pay close attention to the daily behavior of dogs. If the following symptoms are found, we should seek medical attention in time: Limping, unwillingness to exercise Difficulty getting up, slow movement Joint swelling and pain Hin limb weakness, shaking walking Difficulty urinating 5. Conclusion Understanding common joint diseases and degenerative myelopathy in dogs can help us take better care of them and let them have a healthier and happier life. I hope this popular science article can provide you with some help, and I wish all dogs can grow up healthy and happy!

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  How to Help Your Dog with Degenerative Myelopathy

  Sigrid Senior

  Jan 10, 2025

  A while ago, one of our customers asked me if our brace could be used for dogs with degenerative myelopathy (DM). Since he didn't see this type of disease in the comments, I wanted to talk to you about degenerative myelopathy (DM). Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a common neurological disease in older dogs that usually affects the spinal cord, causing weakness in the limbs, poor coordination, and even paralysis. The disease is progressive and irreversible, but proper care, rehabilitation exercises, and early intervention can help slow the progression of symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life. Here are some ways to help dogs manage degenerative myelopathy: 1. Proper exercise and physical therapy Although DM causes a dog's motor ability to gradually decrease, moderate exercise is still very important. Regular physical therapy and light exercise can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility and slow the rate of muscle atrophy. The following activities can be considered: Short walks: Based on the dog's ability, control the pace and time to avoid overexertion. Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact exercise for dogs that can effectively strengthen muscles and reduce joint stress. Passive exercise: Help your dog perform simple joint movements, such as slowly bending and extending your dog's hind legs, to promote blood circulation and muscle activity. 2. Use support equipment As the disease progresses, it may become increasingly difficult for your dog to walk. At this time, using support equipment such as a dog hind leg brace, gait correction belt, or dog wheelchair can help them continue to move and reduce the risk of falling due to loss of balance. Hip support belt: Help your dog maintain balance while walking and reduce the burden on the legs. Dog wheelchair: When the hind legs are completely lost, a wheelchair allows your dog to still move and maintain a certain degree of independence and freedom. 3. Nutritional support Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for dogs with DM. Being overweight increases stress on the joints and spine. Provide your dog with a high-quality diet that is appropriate for his age and health status, and ensure that he gets enough nutrients to support muscle health. Certain supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids (which can be supplemented with fish oil) and glucosamine can help joint and nerve health. 4. Regular veterinary checkups Taking your dog to the veterinarian for regular checkups can help monitor the progression of the disease and adjust treatment and care plans in a timely manner. The veterinarian may recommend some medications to relieve symptoms or reduce possible complications (such as arthritis). There is currently no complete cure for DM, but early intervention can help slow the course of the disease. 5. Environmental adaptation and care Anti-slip mats: Lay anti-slip mats at home to prevent your dog from slipping due to unstable walking and increase its sense of security. Comfortable sleeping environment: Provide a soft cushioned bed to prevent your dog from lying on the hard ground for a long time and reduce joint pressure. Assistive devices: For example, lifting platforms, straps, etc., to help your dog reduce excessive force when getting in and out of bed or getting into the car. 6. Pain management Although DM itself does not usually cause obvious pain, accompanying joint diseases or other complications may cause discomfort. Make sure your dog is not in pain due to other problems, and use some painkillers or joint relaxants (under the guidance of your veterinarian). 7. Psychological care The progression of degenerative myelopathy may make your dog feel depressed or anxious, especially when they gradually lose their ability to move. Although your dog's physical abilities gradually decline, they still need your company and encouragement. Maintaining positive interactions, such as light petting, verbal praise, and appropriate play, can help your dog stay in a good mood. 8. Avoid overuse or overexertion Avoid excessive exercise and strenuous activities, especially when your dog shows signs of fatigue. Moderate and gradual exercise is key, and overuse of the affected limb will accelerate the deterioration of the disease. 9. Consider medication While there is no specific drug to cure DM, some medications can relieve symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease. Your veterinarian may recommend some antioxidants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or neurotrophic drugs to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of nerve damage. Degenerative myelopathy is indeed a challenge for dogs, but with proper care, exercise, and support, you can help your dog slow the progression of the disease and improve their quality of life. If you have any questions or need advice, I'd be happy to help!

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  How to Treat Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

  Giles

  Nov 08, 2024

  Hip dysplasia is a painful condition that affects many dogs, especially large breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors. When the hip develops dysplasia, the ball of the femur can slip in and out of the hip socket. Over time, this can lead to arthritis and severe discomfort. Fortunately, with early detection and proper treatment, dogs with hip dysplasia can still enjoy a high quality of life. We recommend wearing a dog hip dysplasia brace during this treatment period. Here’s how to treat hip dysplasia in dogs and help effectively manage its symptoms: 1. Veterinary Diagnosis and Evaluation If you notice your dog limping, avoiding physical activity, or having difficulty getting up from a lying position, it’s crucial to see your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend x-rays to assess the severity of the hip dysplasia. Based on the results of the exam, your veterinarian will recommend a personalized treatment plan. 2. Weight Management One of the most important aspects of managing hip dysplasia is maintaining a healthy weight for your dog. Extra weight puts extra stress on the hips and joints, which can increase pain and accelerate the development of arthritis. Your veterinarian can recommend a specific diet to help your dog maintain a healthy weight and ensure their joints aren't stressed more than necessary. 3. Low-impact exercise While exercise is essential for keeping your dog's muscles strong, high-impact activities like running or jumping can make hip dysplasia worse. Low-impact exercise like swimming, short walks, or gentle play are ideal. Swimming, in particular, helps strengthen the muscles around the hip joint without putting stress on the bones. 4. Pain management Managing pain is essential to improving your dog's quality of life. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend additional treatments like corticosteroid injections, acupuncture, or physical therapy to help relieve discomfort. 5. Joint supplements Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain the health of hip cartilage and reduce inflammation. These supplements come in chewable tablet form, and your veterinarian can recommend the right dosage for your dog. While they can't cure hip dysplasia, joint supplements can slow its progression and improve mobility. 6. Physical Therapy and Hydrotherapy Physical therapy, including hydrotherapy (water therapy), can be very beneficial for dogs with hip dysplasia. These treatments help to build muscle around the affected joint without putting stress on the joint. Hydrotherapy, in particular, is gentle on the joints while still providing effective exercise. Many veterinary clinics offer hydrotherapy classes or can refer you to a specialist. If you are concerned that your dog might be at risk for hydrotherapy, you can purchase a dog swimsuit that fits properly. This will also give you peace of mind during hydrotherapy, and hip dysplasia itself requires some gentle exercise for your dog. A life jacket is a good option for your dog. 7. Surgical Options In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. There are several surgical options depending on the dog's age, size, and the severity of the hip dysplasia: Femoral head resection (FHO): This surgery involves removing the femoral head to eliminate painful bone-to-bone contact. It is usually used for smaller dogs or cases with severe arthritis. Total hip replacement (THR): This is the gold standard for treating advanced hip dysplasia. The damaged hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint, with a good chance of restoring mobility and relieving pain. Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (TPO): This surgery is often recommended for younger dogs who have hip dysplasia but do not have severe arthritis. It involves cutting and repositioning the pelvis to better align the hip joints. 8. Alternative Therapies Some dog owners find alternative therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, or cold laser therapy to be effective. These therapies can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing. Before starting any alternative treatment, always consult your veterinarian to make sure it is appropriate for your dog. Conclusion While there is no complete cure for hip dysplasia, there are many treatment options that can help manage the condition and ensure your dog lives a happy, comfortable life. Early intervention, combined with weight management, regular low-intensity exercise, and pain relief, can significantly improve your dog's health. For more severe cases, surgery can provide long-term relief and can significantly improve your dog's mobility. If you suspect your dog may have hip dysplasia, don't hesitate to seek veterinary care. With the right approach, you can help your dog suffer less pain and enjoy a high quality of life.

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  Do Braces Help Dogs with Elbow Dysplasia?

  Eugene Louis

  Sep 12, 2024

  Elbow dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, leading to pain, lameness, and reduced quality of life. It occurs when the elbow joint develops abnormally, causing misalignment, cartilage damage, and arthritis over time. For pet owners, managing elbow dysplasia can be challenging, and many wonder if braces can help. Let’s explore how dog elbow braces work and their potential benefits for dogs with elbow dysplasia. Understanding Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs Elbow dysplasia refers to a range of developmental abnormalities affecting the elbow joint, including: Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process (FMCP) Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) Ununited Anconeal Process (UAP) Joint Incongruity These issues cause the bones in the elbow joint to rub against each other improperly, leading to pain, inflammation, and eventual arthritis. The condition is particularly common in large and giant breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers. How Do Braces Help with Elbow Dysplasia? Provides Joint Stability A dog elbow dysplasia brace helps stabilize the elbow joint, reducing abnormal movement and minimizing friction between the bones. This can alleviate pain and slow the progression of joint damage. By limiting excessive motion, a brace helps maintain proper joint alignment and prevents further injury. Reduces Pain and Inflammation Elbow braces, like an elbow dog brace, apply gentle pressure and compression to the affected area, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. For dogs with mild to moderate elbow dysplasia, these braces can provide enough support to allow for a more comfortable range of motion. Promotes Proper Weight Distribution An elbow dysplasia brace for dogs can help redistribute weight away from the affected joint, reducing strain on the damaged areas. This is particularly beneficial for dogs that limp or shift their weight due to discomfort, as it helps prevent secondary issues in other joints. Supports Post-Surgery Recovery For dogs undergoing surgery to correct elbow dysplasia, braces can play a crucial role in the post-operative recovery process. They offer support and protection to the healing joint, ensuring the dog does not put undue stress on the repaired areas, and help speed up recovery by limiting unnecessary movement. Improves Mobility and Quality of Life By providing joint support and reducing pain, a dog elbow brace can improve overall mobility, allowing dogs to enjoy daily activities like walking, playing, and climbing stairs without discomfort. Improved mobility leads to a better quality of life, a primary concern for any pet owner. When Are Braces Most Effective? Braces are most effective for dogs with mild to moderate elbow dysplasia or those not suitable for surgery due to age, other health issues, or financial constraints. They can also help manage chronic conditions and prevent further joint degeneration. Choosing the Right Brace for Your Dog When selecting a brace, it’s essential to choose one specifically designed for elbow support. Look for features like adjustable straps for a custom fit, breathable materials for comfort, and durable construction for daily use. Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the best type of brace, such as a dog elbow dysplasia brace, and ensure proper sizing and fit. Conclusion Braces can be a beneficial non-invasive option for managing elbow dysplasia in dogs. They provide joint stability, reduce pain and inflammation, promote better weight distribution, and improve overall mobility. While they may not be a cure, they can significantly enhance your dog's quality of life. Always consult your veterinarian to determine if a brace is the right choice for your dog and to develop a comprehensive management plan for elbow dysplasia. Show now

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