The onset of osteoarthritis in dogs often occurs with age, but sometimes much earlier. It is quite common and can affect young dogs as well, particularly following a trauma, a malformation, or intense physical activity.
It is important to learn how to recognize the signs, have the condition diagnosed by a veterinarian, and then adapt the dog’s lifestyle accordingly: diet, living environment, and physical exercise.
Learning to detect it early, obtaining a proper veterinary diagnosis, and adjusting nutrition, surroundings, and activity levels are key to preserving the dog’s comfort and quality of life.