Osteoarthritis in dogs

Osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs is a common degenerative joint disease that causes chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, particularly in older dogs. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions joints gradually deteriorates, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and bone-on-bone contact. Symptoms often include limping, reluctance to move or play, difficulty rising, and reduced activity levels. Risk factors for canine osteoarthritis include age, breed predisposition (especially in larger breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds), obesity, and previous injuries. 1 in 5 dogs over the age of 1 will have OA (see: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00220/full)

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