Rottweilers and Arthritis

Is your best four-legged pal a big Rottweiler? Many people adore their big lovable pets, but aren't aware that Rottweilers are predisposed to a number of ailments. Because of their size and breeding, Rottweilers may be more likely to suffer from several joint and skeletal problems. Other large breeds are also susceptible to these types of conditions.

These include Great Danes, German Shepherds, Mastiffs, and other such large breeds. Still, Rottweilers seem more predisposed to such problems than most other breeds. What type of health problems might your Rottweiler suffer from? Common diagnosed conditions include hip dysplasia, osteochondrosis, cruciate ligament rupture, retinal dysplasia, and deafness. With regular preventive screening, your Rottweiler can avoid much of the pain and suffering associated with many of these conditions.

Hip dysplasia is one of the most diagnosed arthritic conditions among all pets. It occurs when the joint socket is too small or shallow, causing to unstable joint movement. The ball of the joint may also be misshapen or too small for the socket. This leads to a lifetime of unstable joints that can develop into arthritis later in life. What is the cause for hip dysplasia? It still remains a misunderstood condition, but it appears that there is a strong hereditary factor to the condition.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of this condition may include rapid growth of the dog, and excessive weight gain in a short period of time coupled with increased exercise. Since many young dogs go through a period of fast growth and weight loss, it can be very difficult to monitor the initial stages of the condition. If you have a Rottweiler that you know is genetically predisposed to developing arthritis or hip dysplasia, it would be wise to monitor its activity level at a young age. Too much activity could cause the joints to become unstable. Speak to your veterinarian about your concerns. Your vet may wish to monitor your pet's growth. He or she may X-ray their hips during this period of fast growth and increased activity.

Another factor that can contribute to the onset of hip dysplasia is excessive consumption of protein, and even certain vitamins, minerals, and calories. Overfeeding of a nutrient-rich diet has been linked to hip dysplasia in animals. Feed your pet a sensible and well balanced diet. Speak to you vet if you have any doubts about your dog's diet. The first symptoms of hip dysplasia may become evident as your pet matures and enters adulthood, usually around the twelfth month. Symptoms of arthritis, including pain, stiffness, and swelling may become evident as your dog ages.

Treatment of arthritis in Rottweilers and other large breed dogs usually consists of anti-inflammatory drugs, a balanced diet, and some form of regular diet. In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Veterinary medicine has made much advancement in recent years, and now there are more treatment options to treat your pet. Even very advanced cases can be treated surgically with a number of new and less invasive surgical options that were not available just a few months ago.