Like humans, dogs get a little creakier as they grow older. Although arthritis and joint problems are more common in the twilight years, dogs of any age can also develop the problem.

Arthritis is brought about by the wearing down of the cartilage that surrounds the joints. The cartilage facilitates the movement of the joint and when it’s gone, joint movement can become painful. Common predisposing factors and causes of arthritis in pets include obesity, age, injury, or inherited conditions.

Common arthritis symptoms

• Limping
• Stiffness
• Reluctance to move especially after sleeping
• Hesitates to go up and down stairs
• Pain or swelling of affected joints
• Diminished flexibility

There is really no way that arthritis can be totally prevented, especially if your dog is prone to joint problems as an inherited trait, but you can take steps to minimize the effects. These include keeping your pet at a healthy weight, giving a balanced diet appropriate for your pet’s lifestage, and regular visits to your Frisco, TX animal hospital for wellness checks.