Dog Leg Pain

Being man's best friend, dogs have a universal appeal to people of all ages and nationalities. Treating them with care and affection is a priority, and detecting and treating signs of discomfort in them must be undertaken regularly.

Since they cannot vocally exhibit their discomfort, it is important for an owner to recognize other forms of implicit expressions made by them. There are many forms of illnesses that affect dogs, but most are curable over time. Here are the causes and symptoms of leg pain in dogs.

Symptoms

Physical discomfort can be easily noticed by any person.
If the dog is limping, it could indicate that it is feeling pain.
Lack of usual physical activities could indicate more than just laziness.

The dog may also constantly lick the spot that's causing it pain. As a result of this, the area that's wounded may have a noticeable reduction in hair.
Touching the affected area may result in the animal yelping in pain or even snapping at the owner.

Uncharacteristic moodiness, snapping at familiar faces, or just a simple look of dejection, all may be indicating that the pet is experiencing pain.

The form and intensity of injury will also depend largely on the age, breed, and gender. As the owner, it is your responsibility to determine if your dog needs to be taken to the vet, or if you can observe it at home, tend to it, and ensure that it will shrug off the pain. Following the recommended measures will aid the smooth flowing of everyday activities.

Causes

Osteoarthritis

OA refers to the abnormal condition of degradation of the joints. Locking of the joints, tingling sensation, cracking of the bone, and stiffness are the signs to detect it in your pet. The dog's rate of metabolism, genetic conditions, and the rate of physical exertion are its possible causes. These can be cured by supplements.

Hip dysplasia

The displacement of the hip from its socket leads to this particular condition. If untreated, it can also lead to extreme cases of arthritis. Though a dog's nature may determine the presence of hip dysplasia, the root cause of this abnormality is believed to be hereditary.

Panosteitis

This is a common bone disease and occurs during the formative stages of growth. Abnormal growth rate owing to excessive exercise and high intake of protein foods may lead to such a condition.

Luxating Patella

When the patella (or the kneecap) dislocates or moves out of its normal position, this condition arises. This is normally seen in small and miniature breeds like the chihuahua.

Hypertrophic osteodystrophy

HOD is also a condition that occurs in the formative stages and mostly affects large and giant breeds, like the greyhound. The portion of the bone that is adjacent to the joint (metaphysis) experiences low blood flow, resulting in HOD.

Bite by other dogs

In most cases, it might just be a simple flesh wound due to being bitten by another animal. This is easily visible and also easily treatable.

Treatment

In most cases, it is advisable to observe the animal for a while instead of panicking and rushing to the veterinarian. If the problem persists though, one must consult the doctor. All these symptoms have medications to help ease the pain, but the severity of the treatment will have to be decided by the doctor after carefully scrutinizing the case.

A careful and measured rehabilitation program will be recommended by the doctor. He will also recommend suitable forms of exercise, provide better dietary plans, and constantly review the pet.

It is best to not get disheartened as dogs possess a great ability to recover and recuperate. Cases of back and front leg pain are not uncommon. Remember to shower your pet with your love, give it sufficient attention, and trust in its ability to be back to normal again.

Like human beings, a dog's body will also respond to the right mixture of medicines, physical rehabilitation, and a loving human touch.