Joint Injuries in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment & Costs

It's the moment every dog owner dreads: you're out playing or exercising with your pet and they come home limping. Joint injuries in dogs can arise from trauma, degenerative conditions, or genetic issues, often requiring specialist care or surgery. This comprehensive guide explains common joint problems, how to identify symptoms, and treatment options to support your dog's recovery.

Why Are Dogs Prone to Joint Damage?

Dogs experience significant wear and tear throughout their active lives. Activities such as running on hard surfaces, jumping, or rough play can cause ligament tears, dislocations, or degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis. Certain purebred dogs have a genetic predisposition to joint conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia or luxating patella (dislocated kneecap). Additionally, being overweight increases joint strain and inflammation, making dogs more vulnerable to joint injuries and chronic discomfort.

For responsible dog ownership, it’s vital to select breeds with healthy joint traits and maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and exercise.

Recognising Symptoms of Joint Problems in Dogs

Besides visible limping, subtle signs of joint pain may include:

• Difficulty climbing or descending stairs
• Limb or hip stiffness, especially after rest
• Swelling or fluid around joints
• Abnormal limb posture
• Lethargy and reluctance to exercise
• Unusual gait or favouring one leg

If you notice any of these signs, consult your vet promptly. Early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and prevent progression.

How to Respond if Your Dog is Limping After Exercise

Remain calm and observe when and how the injury occurred; this information helps the vet diagnose accurately. Minor injuries may improve with rest and limited exercise, but keep your dog confined to prevent worsening. For severe limping, bleeding, or if your dog steps on a sharp object, seek veterinary care immediately. Treatment may involve x-rays, pain relief medications, and antibiotics if there is an open wound.

Common Types of Joint Injuries in Dogs

Common injuries include:

• Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) injury: Similar to ACL injuries in people, causing knee instability and arthritis.
• Luxated Patella: Dislocation of the kneecap, often hereditary or trauma-related.
• Hip Dysplasia: Genetic abnormality causing poor hip joint formation, leading to arthritis.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Affects spinal discs, more frequent in long-backed breeds like Dachshunds.

Treatment and Management of Joint Injuries

Depending on severity, treatment options include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation.
• Physiotherapy or hydrotherapy to restore movement and strength.
• Surgical interventions such as joint repair or replacement performed by specialists.
• Weight management plans incorporating controlled diet and exercise.

Implementing these measures early can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and delay or prevent arthritis.

Cost Considerations for Joint Injury Treatment

Veterinary care, diagnostics, surgery, and rehabilitation for joint injuries can be costly, sometimes running into thousands of pounds. To manage unforeseen expenses, consider comprehensive pet insurance that covers orthopaedic and complementary therapies. Alternatively, setting aside savings for veterinary emergencies is a prudent approach to ensure your pet receives the best care.

Helping Your Dog Recover Post-Surgery

Follow your vet's recovery instructions carefully, including restricting your pet’s activity and administering prescribed medications accurately to avoid complications. Enrich your dog's confinement area with safe toys and puzzles to prevent boredom and stress. Work with your vet to develop rehabilitation plans involving physiotherapy or hydrotherapy. Some supplements, like fish oils, may help reduce inflammation and support joint health long term.

Understanding the risks of joint injuries and how to manage them is a key part of responsible dog ownership, enabling your companion to live a comfortable and active life.