The joints of the dog: Structure and possible joint problems
A functioning locomotor system with healthy joints is essential for a happy dog's life. Impaired mobility is often painful and significantly reduces the quality of life of the four-legged friend.
In the following, you will learn everything you need to know about the structure of a dog's joints and about possible joint diseases that can occur very frequently. We also give you tips on how to avoid problems with your dog's joints and counteract existing complaints.
How the dog's joints are structured
Just like humans, dogs have different joints, which differ in their structure and mobility. Nevertheless, the individual components are more or less the same in all joints.
Each joint of the dog consists of the following parts:
- Synovial fluid (synovia)
- Articular cartilage
- Acetabular cup and joint head
- Joint capsule
- Tapes
The joint fluid is called synovia. It is located inside the joint between the joint cartilages. The articular cartilages cover the ends of the bones, called the socket and head, which meet at the joint of the dog. The entire joint is enclosed by the joint capsule. The ligaments ensure that the intended radius of movement is maintained and, together with the muscles, give the joint the necessary stability.
What is the function of the joint fluid?
The synovial fluid, also known as synovia, is a fluid whose primary function is to reduce friction in the joint. If the synovia were missing in the dog's joints, this would first lead to wear and tear of the cartilage and then eventually to damage to the socket and head of the joint.
The synovial fluid consists mainly of glucose, hyaluronic acid and water and prevents the joint cartilages from rubbing directly against each other. Hyaluronic acid plays a particularly important role here. This is because glycosaminoglycan can bind a great deal of water in relation to its own volume, which gives the synovia its gel-like consistency.
What is the function of the joint cartilage?
The elastic joint cartilage has the task of preventing excessive friction in the dog's joints and cushioning shocks. In this way, they protect the joint head and socket from wear and tear.
The articular cartilage consists mainly of so-called extracellular matrix, in which the cartilage cells are located. These produce, among other things, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulphate, collagen and glycosaminoglycans, which in turn are used to form the extracellular matrix.
Many dogs have problems with the joints
The synovia and joint cartilage are subject to a constant process of renewal. However, the ability to form the necessary substances diminishes with age, which is why older dogs suffer particularly frequently from problems with the joints.
In addition, feeding mistakes, overweight, and regular overloading can also increase the risk of joint problems in dogs. In addition, certain breeds of dogs have a certain genetic predisposition to joint problems.
Typical joint problems in dogs include arthritis and chronic conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia and osteoarthritis. If left untreated, diseases such as osteoarthritis in dogs cause the mobility of the joints to become increasingly restricted.
Joint problems in overweight dogs
Of course, you have no influence on your dog's genetic disposition. Nevertheless, by feeding your dog according to his needs and avoiding him becoming overweight, you can help to prevent joint problems.
If your dog is overweight, you should therefore take prompt action. Reducing the amount of food and the support of our diet powder Shiimun Slim will help to reduce the weight of your four-legged friend in a healthy and lasting way.
Joint diseases are extremely painful for dogs
Chronic joint diseases often mean a considerable reduction in quality of life for dogs. They are extremely painful and may even lead to paralysis.
Without early countermeasures, affected dogs often face a long ordeal. If you notice possible signs of joint problems in your dog, you should act immediately and consult a vet.
Be aware, however, that not all joint problems can be cured. It's possible that your veterinarian's treatment may be limited to relieving existing symptoms and protecting your dog's joints from further damage.
Supplementing your dog's joints with nutritional supplements
In addition to preventing their dog from becoming overweight, many dog owners now also use special dietary supplements to support the veterinary treatment of joint diseases.
Common dietary supplements for dogs for this purpose contain substances such as hyaluronic acid, collagen, chondroitin sulfate or glucosamine, which are known to be important for the synovia and the elasticity of the cartilage in the dog's joint. Corresponding products are available both with single and several of the substances mentioned.
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