Panosteitis

What is Panosteitis?

Panosteitis is a painful condition of the long bones of young, medium or larger breed dogs. The condition causes lameness but is self-limiting without any long term changes to the joints.

How does my pet dog Panosteitis?

The actual cause for panosteitis is still unknown.

How do I know if my dog has Panosteitis?

If you have a young (6-18 months), medium or large breed dog, especially of the breeds noted below, that is having difficulty rising, is limping on one or more legs with the limping shifting from leg to leg, and may be slightly quiet, feverish, with a decreased appetite, you should visit your veterinarian.  A complete examination focusing on the long bones will be performed.  Frequently there is intense pain when you squeeze the bone of the affected leg.  Your veterinarian will need to take radiographs to help to identify panosteitis or to differentiate it from other young dog diseases that cause lameness.

What can I do about Panosteitis?

Treatment of panosteitis focuses on controlling the pain and discomfort.  This may include a variety of NSAIDs available and rest.  Besides pain control, the other treatment is time, usually up to several weeks.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting?

Besides careful breed selection, there is nothing that can be done to prevent panosteitis.

Are there certain breeds that get Panosteitis more often?

German Shepherds and German Shepherd-mixes.  Basset hounds, Doberman pinschers, Labradors, and Rottweilers are all frequently impacted.