Degenerative Bone Disease in Dogs

Causes

• Trauma and abnormal wear and tear to the joints is known to cause the disease in older dogs. Birth defects such as an improperly formed hip can also lead to degenerative bone disease. Abnormal development of the elbow and kneecap or shoulder dislocation leads to abnormal bone and cartilage development and often causes the disease, according to veterinarians at Pet MD. Obesity can also be a cause due to the increased stress it places on joints.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms often vary based on the severity of the disease, the dog's age and the affected joints. An altered gait is commonly seen due to the dog's natural response to put more pressure on unaffected joints. Reduction of muscle size, also known as muscle atrophy, is one of the symptoms of degenerative bone disease, states Sandi Okun, Senior Surgical Technician at the Newton Veterinary Hospital. Dogs may also have difficulty using stairs and appetite or behavior may change depending on the amount of pain the dog is feeling.
  
  

Diagnosis

• Experienced veterinarians must be consulted to properly diagnose the disease. Obtaining a history from the dog's owner about possible symptoms is important. A complete physical exam will also occur along with radiographs and laboratory tests, states Holly Nash, DVM, MS. An extensive examination of the affected joints may also be necessary.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment for degenerative bone disease involves controlling symptoms and pain, but it cannot be cured. Reconstructive surgeries in affected joints can help slow the disease and ease pain in some dogs. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be useful in controlling pain and swelling, according to Sandi Okun. Losing weight is also recommended in overweight dogs to help alleviate the extra pressure it places on the joints. Physical therapy has also been beneficial in some cases.
  
  

Management

• Degenerative bone disease is progressive and will continue to worsen over time, states Nash. Monitoring a dog's symptoms is important because a drug change or surgery may become necessary. If given the proper medical treatment, dogs will often respond well and live relatively pain-free for years.