If you're a dog owner, you probably realize this old saying is true, "A dog is man's best friend!" That's why you'll want to do your best to be a good provider for your loving pooch. However, even a good pet owner may not notice the signs of arthritis pain in his faithful pal. After all, your dog can't tell you about the pain in words.



Many dog owners don't realize that their pet can develop arthritis and suffer just as much as people do. All ages of dogs can be attacked by this aggressive disease since some dogs have congential defects and others are injured in accidents.

Even if your pal is suffering with arthritis, there are ways you can help with the relief of your dog's pain. But you need to be informed. This article will provide helpful information if you read it to the end.

You need to know what to be on the lookout for when it comes to your dog's health and the prevention of needless suffering. Here are some arthritis symptoms.

When your pet adjusts his or her position, such as when getting up or down, does your dog seem to be favoring a limb?

With advancing age can also come the onslaught of arthritis. It's normal for older dogs to rest more. However, if your dog used to be extremely active and has become a couch potato, it might be a signal to you that arthritis is attacking your pet.

Has your dog lost his former agility and now appears to be stiff and slow?

You shouldn't let your dog become overweight because he'll suffer more if it does get arthritis and it's unhealthy for your dog to be carrying excess pounds.

Has the basic personality of your pet changed from being cheerful to being tense and nervous? That could be a sign of arthritis.

Gently feel around the joints of your pet to see if there is any swelling there. Swelling around the joints is a sign of arthritis.

You might suspect that your pet has arthritis if you go through the list of symptoms above, but you need a professional diagnosis of your pet's condition. You also need medical treatment for your pet if he does have arthritis.

If your veterinarian finds that your dog does indeed have arthritis, there are many things you can do to help your pet feel better. Your veterinarian will probably suggest several ways you can help your pet to experience less pain.

Here's a list of several ways that you could help your pet feel better even if he does have arthritis:

1. Your dog may be having trouble getting up on the sofa or on the bed where he may spend a lot of time. Help him get up on the sofa or bed by purchasing a special dog ramp. If your dog is small enough, lift him and place him where he wants to go. Just make sure you support his seat so you don't damage your pet's spine.

2. Raise your dog's water and food dishes so that he doesn't have to reach down so far when he drinks and eats since that can be uncomfortable for a dog with arthritis.

3. Consider supplying your dog with glucosamine supplements. It has been found to help arthritis patients, whether they are people or dogs. You may also want to give condroitin supplements to your dog as well. Your dog's cartilage will receive extra protection by supplementing his diet with glucosamine and condroitin. These two supplements have been found to be safe and helpful for dogs.

4. Your dog needs regular care from your veterinarian to be as healthy as possible.

5. Feed your dog the healthiest food you can afford. Avoid the cheaper brands. Search the internet for healthy dog food that you can make yourself.

If you care about your dog, you'll want him to be as healthy and happy as possible. After all, dogs are man's best friends, so it's your job to be a responsible pet owner and help your pet avoid needless suffering.