Joint Problems in Adult dogs

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Joint problems in adult dogs
Although most joint ailments are more common in senior dogs and are simply the result of old age, some adult dogs can develop problems much earlier in their lives. Some ailments, such as hip dysplasia, can be hereditary, while others occur as a result of diet and exercise choices. Regardless of the cause, joint ailments can mean great discomfort for your dog so the more you can do to prevent them from occurring, the better off your dog will be.

Consider the breed
Certain breeds of dogs are more susceptible to joint ailments. For instance, many large breed dogs, such as German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems - often due to overly rapid growth during adolescence. To prevent this, large-breed adolescents should begin eating an adult dog food or a puppy food specifically developed for large-breed puppies.

Maintain a proper diet and regular exercise
An overweight dog is going to put more stress on its joints than a dog that maintains a healthy weight. Consult with your veterinarian to make sure you are feeding for dog the proper food. The nutrients from a proper diet should help keep your dog's joints healthy, however if your breed is more susceptible, you may wish to ask your vet about possible supplements to maintain healthy joints and ligaments

Regular exercise is also important in keeping your dog at a healthy weight. However, while it may be fun for you and your dog to get out and really work up a sweat, please bear in mind the pounding your dog's joints take, especially on hard surfaces such as paved areas. This may take its toll over time, and lead to serious complications in the future.

Treat problems early

If you notice your dog limping or having other difficulties moving, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Many joint ailments can be corrected if detected early, before major damage occurs