15 Dog Breeds At Risk For Joint Problems

Joint health is a significant concern for many dog breeds, especially as they age. However, incorporating appropriate exercise, diet, and supplements can help prevent pain and discomfort, ensuring that your dog remains active and healthy. Keep reading to discover 15 breeds that require extra attention to their joints and to learn what you can do to help!

German Shepherd 

The German Shepherd’s strong build predisposes them to hip dysplasia, which can cause arthritis. To maintain joint health, engage them in regular, low-impact activities like swimming. Managing their weight is essential for reducing strain on their hips and joints, enhancing their comfort and mobility as they age.

Great Dane 

Weighing in at around 150-175 pounds, the Great Dane ranks among the tallest dog breeds. However, their immense size can lead to joint stress and arthritis at a younger age. It’s recommended that they start dietary support by age four, as early prevention can make a huge difference.

Labrador Retriever 

America’s beloved family dogs, Labradors, are known for their friendliness and also for their tendency to gain weight. The extra weight can be a disadvantage, resulting in strain on the joints and leading to hip and elbow abnormalities. Hence, keeping your Labrador fit and active helps prevent long-term joint issues.

Golden Retriever 

Golden retrievers may be medium-sized, but genetic factors and muscular build make them prone to dysplastic elbow joints and other joint problems. Early screening and supplements like glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3 are essential to managing these risks and keeping your pet happy and healthy throughout their life.

Rottweiler

Although Rottweilers are tough, their joints often tell a different story. Up to 55% of Rotties may experience elbow abnormalcy. Owners should consider having their dog’s distraction index analyzed and focus on proper diet and exercise. Monitoring their weight can also significantly help reduce stress on their joints.

Bulldog 

Bulldogs may be adored for their funny, stocky bodies, but this unique structure can cause joint issues, especially arthritis. Their predisposition to obesity only adds more pressure. Remember to keep your pup’s weight in check and focus on low-impact activities like swimming to protect their joints.

Dachshund 

Not all breeds with short legs and long bodies face the same risks, but Dachshunds are highly inclined to experience back problems and arthritis. However, early intervention with low-impact exercises and joint supplements can protect their mobility, decrease stress on their frame, and improve bone and joint health as they age.

Saint Bernard 

The iconic role of this breed as a rescue dog comes with a price. Saint Bernards, with their massive frames of up to 180 pounds, are particularly susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia. These pet owners should monitor their dog’s weight and consider nutritional supplements to reduce any possible joint stress.

Basset Hound 

The charming Basset Hound, known for its droopy ears and short legs, faces joint issues, especially in its elbows. The added strain on its limbs can lead to early arthritis, so a careful exercise routine and regular check-ups are a must to maintain its mobility.

Cocker Spaniel 

A bundle of energy, the Cocker Spaniel’s active lifestyle can sometimes take a toll on their joints. Though smaller in size, their high energy levels put them at risk for degenerative joint diseases. Owners should, therefore, focus on balanced exercise and start joint care by the time their pups turn five.

Newfoundland 

Weighing up to 150 pounds, Newfoundlands grow quickly and heavily, making them prone to joint issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia. These huge but gentle breeds often face arthritis at a young age due to their rapid growth. So, early prevention, including supplements, is essential.

Pug 

Pugs may be small, but their stout stature can lead to joint problems. Their body structure, combined with a risk of obesity, can overburden their hips and elbows, increasing the chance of arthritis. Tracking their body condition score and ideal body weight aids in effectively managing their weight and joint health.

Boxer 

With their muscular build and high energy, these dogs can develop joint issues like hip dysplasia or even Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Caretakers should focus on proper nutrition and a balanced exercise routine to help prevent these conditions from affecting their pet’s playful and upbeat lifestyle.

Old English Sheepdog 

Old English Sheepdogs typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds and are likely to face a condition in which the hip joint fails to develop correctly, leading to arthritis. Signs of this include limping, hip pain, and muscle loss in the back legs. Therefore, it’s important to provide physical therapy.

Mastiff

One of the biggest breeds, Mastiffs can weigh up to 230 pounds. But there’s a price for that: their joints frequently experience excessive strain, which can lead to hip and elbow dislocation. In order to safeguard these dogs’ agility and well-being, experts advise early joint care.