Owner-Reported Detection and Risk Factors of Canine Osteoarthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease in dogs, characterized by progressive cartilage deterioration, chronic pain, and reduced mobility. This prospective, cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of OA-associated pain and identify key risk factors in a cohort of 259 dogs through an owner-completed online survey. The survey incorporated three validated pain and mobility assessment tools: the Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD), the Helsinki Chronic Pain Index (HCPI), and the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI). Dogs exhibiting consistent signs of pain across all three tools (n=56) were selected for a full clinical evaluation, and diagnostic imaging. Most dogs were purebred (80.7%), male (61.8%), overweight (61.0%), and 3-9 years old (57.5%). Pain scores from all three assessment tools revealed significant associations between severity of OA and age, weight category, and body condition score (BCS). Notably, BCS was the strongest predictor of moderate to severe OA, followed by weight category and age. Notably, a discrepancy was observed between owner-reported mobility concerns (28.6%) and the clinical findings, highlighting the limitations of subjective assessment. These findings confirm that advanced age and, more significantly, excess body weight are primary contributors to the severity of canine OA. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of objective diagnostic tools and owner education in the early identification and management of OA. Preventive strategies, including weight control, regular monitoring, and timely interventions, are crucial for improving outcomes in affected dogs.