Osteoarthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is a progressive condition in which the cartilage in the joint is slowly broken down, and bony changes occur. Any dog with a developmental or congenital joint problem, like dysplasia or patella luxation, is more prone to developing osteoarthritis. Dogs who have had injury to a joint such as a fracture involving the joint or a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the knee will be also more likely to develop DJD.

You can also give your dog a glucosamine and chondroitin table. It will help lubricate his cartilage. The normal dosage is a 500 mg tablet per ten pounds of body weight one time daily. MSM is an organic sulphur that studies have shown relieves arthritic pain, slows joint deterioration, and reduces inflammation. It hasn't any negative side effects. Since dogs don't usually get enough Omega 3's in their diets, give your dog a supplement like fish oil tablets to get these fatty acids. It helps reduce swelling in joints.

The choice to help your dog get relief from arthritis or to prevent it from developing is yours. As you can see there are several ways to keep your dogs joints healthy that you can utilize. Really it depends on how much time you have whether or not you would make your dog's food yourself, give him supplements, or feed him commercial dog food made to help treat arthritis. And definitely your vet's opinion on your dog's diet is a consideration. Many vets do recommend supplements and arthritis food formulas for treatment of arthritis in dogs.

It is hard to watch your old friend limp and whimper when he or she walks. Pay attention to his movements and his behavior. Your dog will let you know when the joints are hurting, but only you can help them out and give them the relief they need. With the right medications your dog will not be as good as new, but they will feel less pain.

Arthritis doesn't have to slow your dog down, take steps when they're younger to prevent the irreversible damaged caused by arthritis.