Emilie Meyer
Panosteitis, or pano, is a painful condition that affects the long bones in the legs of young, large-breed dogs. It is a self-limiting disease, meaning it will resolve on its own, but it can be very uncomfortable for your pup. Pano is associated with pain and inflammation, and the affected leg may be so sensitive that even touching it will cause discomfort. The condition can last for several days or weeks and then recur a month later, either in the same or a different leg. While the exact cause of pano is unknown, it is believed to be triggered by high-protein diets and rapid growth in puppies. Treatment for pano involves managing pain and inflammation with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, surgery may be required.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Panosteitis, "growing pains" |
| Cause | Unknown, but genetics, stress, infection, metabolism, or an autoimmune component may be factors. |
| Predisposing Factors | Rapid growth, high-protein, high-calcium diets, breed (large and giant breeds such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Basset Hounds) |
| Symptoms | Lameness, limping, leg pain, inflammation of long bones, reduced appetite |
| Onset | Typically between 5-14 months, but can occur as early as 2 months and as late as 18 months |
| Resolution | Usually resolves by the time the dog reaches 18-24 months of age |
| Treatment | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, pain relief, restricted activity, joint supplements, high-quality puppy food |
| Prevention | Feed smaller meals more frequently, reduce bone content in raw diets, maintain lean body weight |
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What You'll Learn
- Panosteitis (PANO) is a painful, self-limiting growth disorder
- It affects large, fast-growing breeds, including German Shepherds
- Symptoms include lameness, limping, and leg pain
- Treatment includes a raw, all-natural diet and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
- Supplements like omega fatty acids and joint lubricants can help
Panosteitis (PANO) is a painful, self-limiting growth disorder
Panosteitis, or pano, is a painful, self-limiting growth disorder that affects dogs, causing inflammation of the outer surface or shaft of one or more long bones in the legs. It is more common in large, fast-growing, big-boned dogs, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Golden Retrievers. The condition typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 18 months, but can appear as early as 2 months and has been observed in dogs up to 5 years old.
The underlying cause of panosteitis is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with various factors, including genetics, stress, infection, metabolism, and nutrition. High-protein diets, particularly those with excess calcium, may increase the risk of panosteitis in large-breed dogs. To prevent the disorder, it is recommended to feed these dogs a "large breed" diet, which is typically lower in protein and fats to promote slower growth.
The most common symptom of panosteitis is sudden lameness or limping, which can range from mild to severe. The affected leg may be so sensitive that even touching it can cause discomfort. Other possible symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, tiredness, and weight loss. Episodes of lameness typically last a few weeks and then subside, only to recur in the same or different legs weeks or months later.
Treatment for panosteitis focuses on pain management and includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like carprofen and non-narcotic opiates like tramadol. It is important to note that Rimadyl, a prescription medication sometimes used for pain relief in dogs, should be avoided as it has been associated with severe side effects and even death in some cases. In addition to medication, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, nutraceuticals, and antioxidants may be recommended to support joint health and reduce inflammation.
Panosteitis is typically a self-limiting condition, meaning it resolves on its own over time. By the time a dog reaches 18 to 24 months of age, the disorder usually resolves without any lasting inflammation or pain. However, in rare cases of severe pain that cannot be effectively managed, euthanasia may be considered as a last resort.
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It affects large, fast-growing breeds, including German Shepherds
Panosteitis (PANO) is a painful inflammation of the outer surface or shaft of one or more long bones of the legs. It is a self-limiting disease, meaning that it will eventually go away. The disease should be completely resolved by the time the dog reaches 18-20 months of age. Each episode of lameness should last no longer than 3 weeks.
Pano is a growth disease that is more common in large, big-boned dogs. It can show up as young as 5 to 9 months and usually does not occur after a dog is 18 to 20 months. It is more of a growth disorder than a disease, but it can be very painful to young dogs. The pain comes from the growth plates when they grow at different rates. When a dog is finished growing, there is no longer a conflict with growth plates and, therefore, there is no more pain. Pano can occur in any mammal that goes through huge growth spurts during adolescence.
Although pano can occur in any breed of dog, larger breeds, such as German Shepherds, are more prone to this problem. Affected dogs are usually between 5 and 14 months of age, but the first symptoms may occur as early as 2 months of age or as late as 18 months of age. The most common symptom is a sudden, unexplained, painful lameness of one or more legs. The lameness may be mild or severe. The most common bone that is affected is the humerus (upper arm), but panosteitis may also be found in the radius and ulna (the foreleg), the femur (thigh), and/or the tibia (lower rear leg).
If your puppy is affected by pano, it is recommended that you spread their meals out between 4 smaller meals per day. Do not just add additional feedings, but rather divide the recommended amount to add one additional feeding. Smaller portions at each feeding will meet the dog's daily nutritional needs, reduce the amount of energy the dog receives at each feeding, and spread that energy throughout the day, thereby reducing inflammation.
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Symptoms include lameness, limping, and leg pain
Panosteitis, also known as pano, is a condition that affects the long bones of the legs in dogs. It causes pain and inflammation in the shafts of these bones, leading to symptoms such as lameness, limping, and leg pain.
Lameness, limping, and leg pain are the most common symptoms of pano in dogs. The pain and lameness can be mild or severe, with some dogs experiencing such intense pain that they refuse to put weight on the affected leg. The affected leg may be so sensitive that even a light touch can cause discomfort. The lameness tends to occur suddenly and without any history of trauma or excessive exercise. It can appear in one leg or multiple legs at the same time and may shift from one leg to another as the condition resolves in one leg and then reappears in a different leg.
Each episode of lameness typically lasts a few days to weeks and then goes away. The condition tends to be cyclical, with periods of worsening symptoms followed by periods of improvement. The pain and lameness may last for 2 to 4 weeks and then resolve, only to return about 30 days later. In some cases, the inflammation and pain may persist for longer periods, and if it continues for more than 4 to 5 weeks, it is likely that the dog is affected by another bone disorder.
The diagnosis of pano is made by veterinarians based on the dog's history, a physical examination, and radiographs (X-rays). During the physical exam, veterinarians will observe the dog's gait, perform an orthopedic examination by applying pressure to the legs to check for pain reactions, and flex and extend the joints. X-rays are used to confirm the diagnosis by visualizing an increase in the density of the affected bones.
Pano is a self-limiting disease, meaning it will eventually resolve on its own as the dog finishes growing, typically by the time the dog reaches 18 to 24 months of age. However, during episodes of lameness, it is important to provide pain relief and restrict vigorous exercise to alleviate discomfort.
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Treatment includes a raw, all-natural diet and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
Pano, or panosteitis, is a growth disorder that is more common in large, big-boned dogs. It can show up as young as 5 to 9 months and usually does not occur after a dog is 18 to 20 months. Pano is characterised by inflammation and pain in the dog's legs, which can cause lameness or a limp that can last from a few days to a few weeks. The pain is caused by the growth plates growing at different rates, and it usually resolves once the dog finishes growing. While pano is not a serious condition, it can be very painful for young dogs.
Treatment for pano focuses on managing pain and inflammation while slowing the dog's growth rate. A raw, all-natural diet is recommended for dogs with pano, as commercial food, especially puppy food, can cause dogs to grow too quickly. Smaller, more frequent meals can help to reduce inflammation by spreading the dog's energy throughout the day. It is important to ensure that puppies receive adequate nutrition, including enough protein and calcium, while managing their weight. Raw beef bones can be given as a treat, as they provide natural calcium and bone marrow.
Supplements such as nutraceuticals, omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and joint supplements can also be beneficial. However, it is important not to supplement with calcium and to consult a veterinarian for specific nutritional advice. Light to moderate exercise is recommended between episodes of pano, but vigorous exercise and long walks should be avoided.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to control pain and inflammation in dogs with pano. NSAIDs include medications such as carprofen (Rimadyl®), meloxicam (Metacam®), deracoxib (Deramaxx®), and acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin®). These medications can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation, but they should be used with caution as they can cause side effects. NSAIDs affect the kidneys, liver, and digestive tract, and side effects can include reduced activity, behavioural changes, gastrointestinal perforations, kidney and liver problems, and even death in rare cases. It is important to work closely with a veterinarian when using NSAIDs and to monitor for any side effects.
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Supplements like omega fatty acids and joint lubricants can help
Panosteitis (PANO) is a self-limiting disease that usually resolves by the time a dog reaches 18-24 months of age. It is more common in large and giant breeds. The most common symptom of pano is a sudden lameness or limp that can last from a few days to a few weeks. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that prevents the dog from putting weight on the affected leg.
Natural triglyceride oil is the most natural and easily absorbed option, while ethyl ester oil is concentrated and distilled, removing impurities. Synthetic triglyceride oil absorbs the least easily. It is important to protect fish oil from heat, light, and air by storing it in a dark bottle in the refrigerator. Additionally, omega-6 fatty acids also play a role in maintaining healthy skin and promoting a strong immune system in dogs.
Joint lubricants can also help reduce inflammation and improve mobility in dogs with pano. Natural joint lubricants such as bone broth provide glucosamine, chondroitin, and gelatin, which support cartilage repair and cushion joints. Green-lipped mussel supplements and collagen-rich foods or supplements can also help lubricate joints and reduce inflammation.
In addition to supplements, a well-balanced diet is crucial for managing pano in dogs. Smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce inflammation by spreading out the energy intake throughout the day. Light to moderate exercise is recommended between episodes, while hard or vigorous exercise should be avoided. Consulting a veterinarian is essential to determine the most appropriate nutrition and supplement plan for a dog with pano.
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Frequently asked questions
Pano, or panosteitis, is a painful condition that affects the long bones in the legs of young, large-breed dogs. It is a self-limiting disease, which means it will resolve on its own once the dog reaches 18-24 months of age.
The predominant symptom of pano is limping and leg pain. The pain can be mild or severe, and it can occur in one leg, multiple legs, or shift between legs. The affected leg is typically painful to the touch.
Treatment for pano in dogs involves managing pain and reducing inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are often used to relieve pain. It is also important to restrict the dog's activity and provide a properly balanced diet. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids or antioxidants may be recommended.
