Periostitis

Periostitis is an inflammation of the periosteum – the thin layer of tissue that surrounds every bone. It supplies the bone with blood and nutrients. If it becomes inflamed, severe pain often occurs because the periosteum is very rich in nerves.

When does a dog develop periostitis?

The most common cause is trauma. A dog jumps unhappily off the sofa and bumps its shin against the edge of a table. Or it runs into a fence while playing. Such impacts can irritate the periosteum, even if no bone breaks.

In sport dogs, overuse injuries are common. An agility dog that jumps over obstacles every day puts repeated stress on certain bones. This can lead to chronic irritation.

Rarely, bacterial infections are the trigger. They usually arise from deep bite wounds or open fractures, where bacteria penetrate as far as the bone.

How do I recognise periostitis in my dog?

The main symptom is pain on touch. Your dog flinches when you touch the affected area. You will often also see swelling – the area feels warm and is sensitive to pressure.

Typical is so-called “start-up lameness”: after lying down, the dog limps for the first few steps, then it gets better. In acute cases, it limps continuously.

A dog with periostitis in the front leg will unload the affected leg – it stands crookedly and shifts its weight onto the other legs.

What can I do as first aid?

Cool the affected area immediately with a cold, damp cloth. For a maximum of 10 minutes, then take a break. This relieves swelling and pain.

Prevent further strain. Short walks only for toilet breaks, no playing or jumping. If you suspect periostitis, rest is the best friend of healing.

Do not give human painkillers. Ibuprofen or paracetamol are toxic to dogs.

When should I see the vet?

Immediately, if the dog no longer bears weight on the leg at all or if the swelling is very pronounced. Also in case of fever or if the dog becomes apathetic.

No later than 24 hours later, you should visit a vet if the lameness does not improve. What looks harmless can worsen.

In the case of open wounds near the painful area, immediate treatment is necessary – here there is a risk of bone infection.

How is the diagnosis made?

The vet systematically palpates the affected area and checks exactly where the pain is located. This is usually followed by an X-ray – it shows whether the bone itself is affected or “only” the periosteum.

If an infection is suspected, a blood test is often carried out. Elevated inflammatory values indicate bacterial involvement.

What treatment awaits my dog?

In most cases, the dog receives anti-inflammatory painkillers. They reduce both the pain and the inflammation.

In addition, there is a strict leash requirement for two to four weeks. In severe cases, some vets even recommend cage rest.

Physiotherapy can help during the healing phase. Gentle massage and later controlled exercises get the dog back in shape.

In the case of bacterial infections, antibiotics are necessary. Treatment then often lasts several weeks.

What costs should I expect?

A simple examination with X-ray costs around 80–150 euros. If medication is added, the amount rises to 150–250 euros.

In complicated cases with multiple examinations and longer treatment, costs of 500–800 euros can accumulate.

How can I prevent it?

Check your dog’s environment. Cushion sharp edges on furniture, repair loose fence slats. Puppies and very lively dogs often injure themselves on everyday objects.

For sport dogs: increase training gradually. A dog that is only active at the weekend should not suddenly go for hours-long walks.

Keep your dog’s weight in the normal range. Overweight puts unnecessary strain on bones and joints.