Periostitis

Periostitis is a painful inflammation of the thin layer of tissue that surrounds every bone. In dogs, it leads to obvious lameness and sensitivity to touch, often after falls or in very active puppies due to overload.

The periosteum supplies the bone with nutrients and is rich in pain receptors. Therefore, affected dogs react so sensitively to pressure or touch on the inflamed area.

What causes periostitis?

Direct trauma is the most common cause. A dog jumps unhappily off the sofa, bumps itself while playing or suffers a fall, and the periosteum can already become inflamed.

Chronic overload particularly affects puppies between 6 and 18 months. Their bones are still growing, but they are already very active. Agility training or excessive ball games can then lead to periostitis.

Bacterial infections usually occur after open wounds or surgical procedures. The risk increases if foreign bodies enter the wound or aftercare is inadequate.

How do I recognise periostitis?

Your dog suddenly limps and avoids loading the affected limb. The skin over the inflamed bone feels warm and swells visibly.

When palpating, the dog flinches or pulls its leg away. Some dogs lick obsessively at the painful spot, even though no wound is visible externally.

In cases of bacterial involvement, fever often develops above 39.5°C. The dog is then lethargic, eats poorly and the swelling feels tense and hot.

How does the vet make the diagnosis?

Clinical examination

The vet systematically palpates all bones and checks the pain response. They pay attention to swelling, warmth and the exact location of the pain.

X-ray

X-rays show thickening of the periosteum or bone changes. However, early inflammation is often not yet visible; typical structural changes only become recognisable after 1-2 weeks.

Blood test

Elevated inflammatory values (CRP, white blood cells) confirm an active inflammation. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a blood culture is also taken.

What treatment helps?

Immediate rest is crucial. The dog should only be walked on a lead and should avoid stairs, jumping or wild play, usually for 3-6 weeks.

Anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) reduce both pain and swelling. The dosage depends on weight and severity; never give human painkillers.

In the event of a bacterial infection, the vet prescribes antibiotics for 10–14 days. The full course of treatment must be completed, even if the dog is walking better earlier.

What can owners do immediately?

Cool the swollen area for 10–15 minutes with a damp towel. Prevent any strain on the affected limb and book an appointment with the vet promptly.

Do not force movement; let the dog set the pace. Only administer painkillers as directed by the vet.

How long does healing take?

Traumatic periostitis usually heals completely within 4–8 weeks with consistent rest. Infectious forms can take 6–12 weeks.

Chronic overuse injuries in puppies often require longer breaks until bone growth is complete. Returning to full activity too early frequently leads to a relapse.