Biography approach to arthritis in dogs

By Denis J. Marcellin-Little, DEDV, DACVS, DACVSMR

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common health conditions in our canine companions and likely the most common orthopedic problem in dogs.

The prevalence has not been established exactly, but most medical writers quote 20 percent of dogs have this disease.¹ Dogs of all ages can develop OA; unfortunately, it is often overlooked in younger dogs. While there is no simple cure that erases osteoarthritis, several strategies make a significant positive impact on its progression and effects.

This article presents a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to managing this disease in every stage over a dog's lifetime.

From a scientific standpoint, the causes of canine OA have not been strictly established.

The most common appear to be developmental orthopedic diseases, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These are multifactorial (influenced by genetic and environmental factors) and polygenic (influenced by multiple ge