Hello. I would really appreciate someones help regarding severe growing pains in my 6 month old ridgeback.Her limp has alternated from both front legs since about 4 months then seemed to go.She has not been over exercised and i am very carefull about her shoulders...Now her limp has returned and is bothering her.She has been brought up on science diet for large breeds but now I have change to Royal Canin Maxi Junior and since the change her stiffness has returned. I was wondering if there is too much protien in her diet and has caused this flair up again?(Just a thought)Perhaps someone who has gone through the same thing with their dogs could offer some help or found a change of diet to be beneficial to help relieve the condition?Forgot to say that she has been checked by the vet and this was the probable diagnosis.Thanks.

Hi Jennifer....i have had GSDS with pano some that lingered well past one year...you can confirm the diagnosis with x-rays...it will resolve on its own eventually

http://www.provet.co.uk/health/diseases/Panosteitis.htm#h

Thankyou kelly for your help. It is such a shame as she was thriving so well until Tuesday past and it returned the next day.Regards!

Our last dog had this problem,until we changed the walking area.I don't think it is anything to do with food at all.Our Vet described this ailment to us as the different growing stages of the bones either side of the joint.They should grow at the same rate, but sometimes the rate differs and then the pain and limping start.I recall having this myself in Jnr School! My mother called it "growing pains!"
Anyway going back to our dog,we took him off road walking completely and once on soft paths and grass we noticed a big change.Obviously not too far as even on grass this complaint will flare badly if walked too much.We also gave him prescribed nsaid drops for a week.We did occasionally revert to the drops but not very often.
If we took him back onto road walking,the complaint would flare up.It eventually went away after many months.Hope this helps, and try not to worry as it will go eventually.The Vet said in large breeds this can carry on for 2 years, but he also pointed out that many small breeds are also affected just the same.