Some dog breeds are prone to get osteoarthritis (commonly known as arthritis) more than other breeds. The larger breeds of dog will show signs of suffering pain before the smaller breeds. The pain comes from the gradual wearing down of the spongy cartilage between the joints. This cartilage cushions the joints and protects them. As our furry companions romp and play, walk and run, their joints, over time, become sore because the cartilage thins and bones start to rub against each other. In addition to the wearing down of the cartilage, osteoarthritis might also be the result of an injury, or birth defect. Breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia also suffers from pain.

The symptoms of discomfort will come gradually. Your awareness may be the key to helping your best friend ease his pain.

Dogs that might be noticeably becoming osteoarthritis are:

1. Dogs who are overweight

2. Dogs who are in agility training

3. Work dogs or any dog that does a lot of repetitive motions

Some of the symptoms you might notice are:

1. Slow in movement

2. Less active

3. Difficulty in sitting or standing

4. Sleeping more

5. Favoring a limb

6. Hesitancy to climb stairs, run or jump

7. Behavior changes, probably because of the pain

In helping your dog to feel more comfortable and have less pain, many studies show that giving your dog a daily supplement of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulphate daily provides some needed comfort. This combination of supplements may also prevent the disease in your dog, if given when your dog is young.

You may know people who have used these products, and it has helped them in relieving their pain. A word of caution: Never give your dog human supplements or medications. This could be dangerous to their health. Always check with your veterinarian before administering any of these options. This caution is for the health and welfare of your best friend, your dog.

There are a few things you can do, in addition to getting the advice from your veterinarian, to help them maintain, or regain, their normal activity.

1. Exercise is good. You may continue to walk your dog, but let them set the pace. The pace maybe slower than before, but exercising will help their mobility.

2. Keep in contact with your veterinarian. He may recommend supplements and/or medication, and the dosage your dog would need. Over time, these recommendations may change as your dog improves or ages.

3. Try to have your dog maintain a good weight level. A dog that is too heavy puts too much stress on his joints.

4. If you have hardwood or tiled floors, it may be difficult for your dog to walk without slipping. You may want to consider area rugs and runners for his stability.

5. Providing a comfortable bed would benefit him greatly. You may even find that a heated bed or a foam bed would give him the most comfortable rest.

6. If he is used to getting up on beds, furniture or in a car, a ramp or soft stairs may be the answer. It may become more difficult to maneuver these obstacles without assistance.

7. Help him with his grooming if he has difficulty reaching some areas of his body. Cleaning and brushing on a regular basis may be necessary.

8. Massage therapy is another option to help relieve his pain.

Caring for your dog as he ages, will be a bonding experience for you both. When we invite a pet into our lives, it is our responsibility to give them the best care we can. This may mean we give them more of our time and energy.

The blessing you receive, the character building you will see within yourself, will help not only your beloved pet, but also those wonderful humans that are part of your life and those for whom you care so much.

Following these ideas of caring for your osteoarthritis dog will create a wonderful life for him for years to come. Enjoy your dog! Love him and praise him everyday and he will be a faithful and lovable companion!

Note: I am not a veterinarian nor do I have any formal training in any medical field. This article is not to replace the advice of your veterinarian. I am only providing options and ideas that you may want to discuss with your veterinarian