Zooming through the yard, diving off the couch and chasing their tail are all common things most dogs do. All that running, jumping and twisting can put a real strain on your pup’s joints. We asked the pros for the best ways to keep your pup’s joints feeling their best so they can run, jump, and play pain-free for all of their years.
Common types of joint pain
Joint pain can be caused by osteoarthritis, which is also known as degenerative joint disease. Another reason your pup may experience joint pain is hip or elbow dysplasia. This is when the ball and socket at the hip and elbow don’t align properly.
How do I tell if my dog is experiencing joint pain?
Since your dog can’t really tell you where it hurts, or even that it hurts at all, you’ll have to be a bit of a detective. Common signs of joint pain include:
- Stiffness or difficulty standing up
- Hesitating to run, jump or play
- Difficulty going to the bathroom
- Irritability when touched
- Changes in personality or behavior
- Loss of muscle mass
- Lethargy
- Weight gain
If you notice any of these warning signs and your dog isn’t showing signs of improvement after a few days, you may want to take them to the vet for a check-up. There are many things you can do to help your pup if they are in pain, and an exam by your vet is the first step.
The vet will assess your dog’s range…
