Preventing Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis in dogs can be caused by injury, obesity, gentics, or poor nutrition.  To prevent arthritis in dogs there are a few things a pet owner can do.  Watching your dogs weight is important because obese dogs have a higher chance of developing arthritis.  This is due specifically to the increased weight a dog's legs must carry when they are obese.   Dogs which are obese also may develop arthritis as early as five years old. 

Keeping you pet active is also another way to prevent arthritis. Also, once a dog has developed arthritis, excercise can prevent further inflammation.  Exercise causes the dog's body to create a natural lubrication between the joints which allows the joints to move smoothly.

Also reducing the strain on your dog's body can prevent arthritis and future inflammation.  Raising the dogs food bowl off of the ground to a more elevated area will reduce the strain on their necks.  Also, making sure there is a comfortable spot your dog to rest will eliminate some of the discomfort caused by arthritis.