Akita Degenerative Joint Disease Is it possible for akitas to have canine arthritis? I bought my akita at a shelter and I do not have much history on him. I noticed my akita, Sasha has a tough time getting up. Is there such a diagnosis? ________________________ The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is considered to be one of the most cat-like of the dog breeds when it comes to attitude. It is alert, intelligent, and often independent. Also, like a cat, it uses its paws to wash its face. Answer: The greater swiss mountain dog, or swissy, is believed to be a direct descendant of the ancient tibetan mastiff. A versatile dog, the swissy traditionally drove cattle, guarded property, protected human companions and fought in wars. Absolutely, canine arthritis is a degenerative joint disease (DJD). The debilitating condition can progress over time. Atypically, the disorder is attributed to a loss of cartilage and the annihilation of cartilage-producing cells. Although, degenerative joint disease (DJD) has the ability to occur in any joint, it is prevalent in the hip. Ultimately, canine arthritis can lead to the permanent loss of using a specific joint. Australian Kelpies are herding dogs with an abundance of energy. They can work in extreme climates and conditions. They are known for one unique ability. They can run along the backs of sheep when moving them through chutes. Despite the fact that canine arthritis transpires amongst larger mixed and pedigree breeds, degenerative joint disease (DJD) may occur subsequent to trauma, infections, nutritional disorders. The condition is also prevalent amongst middle-aged canines and geriatric DOGS. Nevertheless, DJD may occur in youthful canines as well. Akitagy arthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD) is common in DOGS who suffer from dysplasia found in predominantly larger canines. The name bernese mountain dog is a rough translation of the German "berner sennenhund", which literally means "bernese alpine herdsman's dog". The breed's original name was "durrbachler", after an inn where these farm dogs were bought and sold. The best medications used to treat akitas who suffer from canine arthritis are a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Carprofen (Rimadyl�). While, the NSAID, Aspirin is effective in treating degenerative joint disease (DJD), it can be harsh on a akita's gastrointestinal tract. The Podengo, a rare breed of dog, is also known as the Portuguese Warren Hound. It is usually a fawn or yellow color, but can be brown, black or sooty colored without white patches or spots. It resembled a long-bodied chihuahua. By far more potent than aspirin, Carprofen (Rimadyl�) has uinnumerous safety features; however a few rare cases have shown DOGS to acquire liver toxicity with over-use of carprofen. In the latter part of the 18th century, Holland was split between the partisans of the Prince of Orange and the patriots, and the patriots were led by Kees de Gyselaer, who owned a dog named Kees. Kees gave the Keeshond breed its name and became the symbol of the Patriots. There are a myriad of medical alternatives for akitas who suffer from canine arthritis. As with any other medication these prescriptions may come with side effects. But in order for a canine to benefit from medications, it requires a regular, appropriate fitness program and weight management. Bloodhounds have dewlaps. What are dewlaps? They are strange looking, pendulous folds of skin on the back of the neck. They don't seem to serve any useful purpose to the bloodhound, but are rather interesting to look at. Border collies are excellent at herding. But they don't descriminate between livestock and other things. This makes them great at things like fly-ball, obedience, tracking, fetching, Frisbee toss, and sheep herding. Sometimes they get out of hand though, several border collies have been known to try to herd small groups of children! Basset hounds are fabulous at hunting and they make wonderful companion dogs. However, even with those great qualities, basset hounds are horrible swimmers! Their legs are simply too small to keep their heavy, long bodies afloat properly.