Dog Arthritis - Common Types of Arthritis in Dogs

Dogs can suffer from different kinds of arthritis, which literally means inflammation of the joints. The most common form of arthritis in dogs is osteoarthritis or canine arthritis. Dogs are more prone to arthritis than in cats or horses and can usually take one of the several forms:

Osteoarthritis - A slow, progressive disintegration of cartilage in your dog joints is called osteoarthritis and is a chronic degenerative joint disease. When the cartilage of a joint is worn away the adjoining bones begin to rub against one another causing muscle discomfort and joint pain.

Hip Dysplasia - A malformation of the hip sockets is called hip dysplasia. The irregular malformation of the "ball and socket" allows excessive movement in the joint causing muscle pain, chronic inflammation leading to tissue deterioration and occasional calcium deposits. Hip dysplasia is most common among larger breeds of dogs.

Elbow Dysplasia - Another form of dysplasia is found in the elbows usually of large breed dogs. This disorder is typically hereditary in nature. In elbow dysplasia the bones become misshapen causing chipping with use resulting in discomfort and pain. An animal suffering from this condition will display lameness in the affected leg.

Knee Dysplasia - This malformation of the joints can also be found in the knees. Knee dysplasia also has the same "bone chips" which cause pain and lameness as it progresses.

Stifle Knee - A common problem with the stifle joint (knee) involves torn ligaments which creates instability of the joint. Joint dislocation is a common complication of the stifle knee. The stifle joint is placed under tremendous use and strain making inflammation at this location common. Poor or irresponsible breeding practices are the greatest reason for these issues.

Osteochondrosis - Inflammation of the cartilage or osteochondrosis is directly linked to poor breeding. Inadequate nutrition can also exacerbate this condition. The symptoms of osteochondrosis include pain and inflammation, and is coupled with cartilage disintegration.

Kneecap Dislocation - When the kneecap repeatedly moves and pull out of it's proper joint position it is known as kneecap dislocation and is associated with leg bones that are poorly formed. Again, this is a condition resulting from poor breeding or genetic inheritance.