Panosteitis is a spontaneously occurring lameness that usually occurs in large breed dogs. Basset Hounds seems to be particularly predisposed to this condition. Some veterinarians feel that this disease may be induced or worsened by stress.
Affected dogs are usually in the 5 to 14 month age range and male dogs are more commonly infected than female dogs. The disease has been reported in dogs as young as 2 months and can occur in young mature dogs up to 2 years old. The lameness tends to occur very suddenly, usually without a history of trauma or excessive exercise. In most cases one or the other front leg is affected first and then the problem tends to move around, making it appear that the lameness is shifting from leg to leg. I can affect any of the 4 legs, and sometimes hi more than 1 leg at a time. There are often periods of improvement and worsening of the symptoms in a cyclic manner. This makes evaluation of treatment difficult since many dogs will spontaneously recover with or without treatment and then relapse.
X-rays usually reveal that the bones have greater density than is normally found. If pressure is applied over the long bones, pain is usually present. The X-ray signs do not always match the clinical signs.
In most cases, the worst pain lasts between one day to two months but may persist in a cyclic nature for up to 2 years, off and on. Analgesic medications like aspirin, or canine non steroidal pain medications can be helpful. In severe cases, corticosteroids may provide relief, but not recommended in young dogs. Dogs activity should be restricted during these bouts with pain.
Currently, a common rumor is that low protein, low calcium diets may prevent this condition. It should be noted that the energy level of low protein/calcium diets is often lower as well. It is now recommended that Adult food be fed to any puppy over 4 months of age. With the revolution of all the new high quality foods, Adult food has everything a puppy needs at that age.
This condition is self limiting, meaning that it will eventually go away, with or without treatment. Pain control can go a long way towards helping your pet feel more comfortable and should be used, though.
Giving your dogs supplements of 500 mg. Glucosmine Chondroitin with MSM and 500 mg. of Vitamin C will sometimes help the joints on a young dog. I give these supplements to young dogs up to the age of 2 years old.
