Do you find that your dog is no longer up for a good game of Frisbee because of dog arthritis? Perhaps it has just been inactive and lazy? Does your pet seem to be acting differently lately? Is it supposed to sit idle for hours at a time? Is there any difference in its position when walking? Climbing the couch, does it do this as fast as it used to? Arthritis in dogs is shown in many ways with many symptoms.

The literal translation of arthritis is joint inflammation. Both humans and animals can suffer from this common ailment. In the case of arthritis, the inflamed joints do not get healed because of the malfunctioning of the immune system. This is devastating to the healthy surrounding tissues and bones. Also, there are countless live nerve ending within the bones that cause pain when they rub together in the diseased joint.

A change in your dog's activity level or movement may indicate that he or she is suffering from arthritis. The pet usually takes pressure off of it's back legs. Pain is reduced when movement of the hips is decreased. Due to unbearable pain the dog may limp or bark in pain when getting up or doing their usual movements.

Large breed dogs usually get arthritis at a young age. This is caused by stress put on their limbs due to carrying their bodies. Compared to other breeds, their internal system tends to go through a process of breaking down at an earlier age than many others. For small dogs, arthritis generally flares around the age of seven or eight. There are a few things that can lead to dog arthritis including but not limited to poor nutrition, heavy weight, and injuries to the bones. In this instance, genetics play an important role.

The answer to canine arthritis does not mean having a pure bred dog or a small dog by the meaning of the above mentioned facts. Competence and concern when it comes to caring for your dog's well being should be the most important criterion. Visits to the veterinarian must be consistent. Even the slightest problems should be addressed immediately like if you notice sometimes stiffness of the joints or uneasiness to move. One important step for your dog is arthritis is already present is to provide a nourishing diet. Walking and swimming are good low-impact exercises to incorporate it in. When using over-the-counter medicines, use with care. Glucosamine supplement is usually used for dogs.