What You Should Do If Your Dog Develops Arthritis

There’s no question that Americans love their dogs. In fact, 44% of U.S. households have a dog. At the end of a long day of work, there’s nothing quite like opening the door to see a happy face and a wagging tail.

As much as we love our furry friends, one of the hardest things to deal with is watching your beloved canine companion grow old. Old age means there’s a good chance your dog could develop arthritis. It’s a condition that affects one out of every four dogs.

If you’re got a dog that’s getting on in age, don’t panic. More than 75% of dogs that develop arthritis and severe dysplasia can live happy and live comfortably with proper care.

Your dog may have arthritis if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Your dog seems to be favoring a limb when sitting or walking
  • Your dog is slow to get up
  • Your dog doesn’t play as often as they used to
  • Your dog is laying down more or sleeping more
  • Your dog is either slow or hesitant