My 8mth old bullmastiff just got diagnosed w/ panosteitis. Any helpful suggestions for pain control & moving?

Answer 1

Although they are very strong and durable when mature, the bones of large breed dogs can be very delicate while they are growing. It is important to avoid injuries or damage during this time.

Normally I recommend the following

1) Strict crate rest for 3 weeks, especially if the dog is on anti-inflammatories. He needs to rest and avoid injuring the leg(s). This means he only goes out on leash.

2) If he's still on puppy food, switch to adult. If he's on a very "high-test" food, get him one that's a bit lower. He is growing too fast.

3) Talk to your vet about an anti-inflammatory

4) A fellow breeder also gives glucosamine to her pano pups. I haven't tried it as I haven't had pano in a long time.

Answer 2

I have had MANY dogs with this over the years. Really, I do nothing. Studies have found that crate rest is not necessary. I would sometimes give asprin if it was bad, but never steroids. The disease is going to resolve on it own and I feel the side effects of steroids are not worth it. They seem to do what they want as far as exercise. I have had dogs that had no problem running or jumping, but a slow walk was very painful.
Crate rest can cause muscle atrophy and lead to other problems.
It is really sad to watch when they are in pain, but it will go away!!!

Answer 3

Ask the breeder for their experience, and Contact the Bullmastiff Club of America. They probably have some sort of forum. If your DVM didn't recommend something, indigenous knowledge is the way to go.
BTW---very, very common in the giant breeds.

Answer 4

Didn't your vet advise you when your dog was diagnosed?
Don't ask for advise here. You will probably be told by some of these nitwits to do things that could be damaging to the dog.