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Written by: Sarah Seward-Langdon
Published on: 03/18/2025
While arthritis is often seen as an inevitable part of aging, did you know that there are certain dog breeds prone to arthritis and may get to it long before their senior years?
Genetics, body structure, and lifestyle can quietly set the stage for joint issues, which makes many of our furry companions much more vulnerable than others. From the sturdy Labrador Retriever to the cute Dachshund, breed-specific traits—like hip dysplasia risk or elongated spines—can turn regular wear and tear into a lifelong issue.
Spotting early signs of arthritis, like stiffness after rest or a reluctance to climb stairs, is essential for early intervention. However, many pet owners miss these subtle cues, often mistaking them for “slowing down” rather than signals of discomfort.
In this blog, we’ll be exploring the dog breeds most prone to arthritis, understanding the early symptoms and signs every owner should watch for, and sharing advice on managing it—from exercise ideas to therapy suggestions.
Whether your pup is a spirited German Shepherd or a playful Golden Retriever, understanding their unique risks can help them stay active, comfortable, and by your side for years to come.
Dog arthritis, otherwise known as canine osteoarthritis, is a condition that is commonly marked by joint inflammation, stiffness, and chronic pain that doesn’t discriminate by age. It can affect puppies and seniors alike. That being said, it’s most common in older dogs.
While arthritis can affect any dog, genetics often play a big role in this condition, putting certain breeds at a higher risk. Radiographic studies show that breeds like Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs carry genetic “blueprints” that make their joints more susceptible to wear and tear over time [1].
These increased risks aren’t random— some breeds inherit an increased chance of forming hip or elbow dysplasia, where malformed joints grind instead of glide.
While arthritis can affect any dog, certain breeds are at a higher risk due to genetics, body structure, and size.
If you have a large or giant breed, a dog with elongated spines, or a pup with a compact, heavier build, they may be more prone to arthritis. This is because these characteristics often bear a lot of stress on their joints, making osteoarthritis a frequently uninvited guest in their lives [2].
Great Danes & Mastiffs: Their massive size strains joints, which accelerates wear and tear.
Saint Bernards: Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which increases the amount their joints grind over time.
Newfoundlands: Weight-bearing stress on hips and elbows increases osteoarthritis risk.
Dachshunds: Their elongated spines predispose them to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) which often turns into spinal arthritis.
Basset Hounds: Short legs and long bodies create uneven joint pressure, especially in the hips.
Bulldogs & Pugs: Shallow hip sockets and compressed joints lead to dysplasia and rapid cartilage breakdown.
Corgis: Stubby legs and long torsos force their joints to absorb extra impact during movement.
Labrador Retrievers: Their love for food (and tendency to gain weight) puts a ton of stress on their hips and elbows.
German Shepherds: Genetic hip dysplasia is a common hallmark of this breed, often progressing into arthritis.
Rottweilers & Boxers: Dense muscle mass and high activity levels strain their joints, while dysplasia is a common genetic trait.
Golden Retrievers: A double whammy of weight gain and hereditary elbow/hip issues.
While genetics load the gun, your unique lifestyle with your dog can be a very strong contributing factor. For example, a Labrador’s weight gain or a Dachshund’s penchant for jumping off couches can turn predisposition into reality.
However, not every dog in these breeds will develop arthritis—proactive care can tilt the odds in their favour. Regular vet check-ups, maintaining a lean weight, and joint-friendly exercise are critical for at-risk pups.
If your dog falls into one of these categories, don’t panic—awareness is the first step to prevention. By understanding their unique risks, you can tailor their care to keep them prancing around comfortably for years to come.
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✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
Arthritis in dogs often creeps in silently, disguising itself as “slowing down” or “just getting older.” But beneath that reluctance to chase a ball or jump up to cuddle you on the couch could be discomfort that needs attention.
Recognizing the signs early can transform your dog’s quality of life—here’s what to watch for [2]:
Stiffness or limping: Especially after rest or in cold weather.
Difficult moving: Struggling to stand, climb stairs, or jump onto furniture.
Swollen, warm joints: Tender to the touch, often followed by muscle loss in affected limbs.
Altered gait: A “bunny-hopping” walk (common in hip arthritis) or favouring one leg.
Reluctance to play: Avoiding fetch, walks, or social interaction.
Irritability or aggression: Growling, snapping, or flinching when touched near sore joints.
Lethargy: Sleeping more or seeming “lazy” despite no changes in routine.
Excessive licking: Focusing on joints like knees or hips to self-soothe pain.
Arthritis isn’t just a physical battle—it can chip away at your dog’s joy for life. A once playful pup could become withdrawn or anxious, avoiding activities they once loved. Chronic pain can even mimic “grumpiness,” making them seem aggressive or reactive.
While canine osteoarthritis has no cure, if you intervene early, you can help slow its progression and restore comfort. If you spot these signs, consult with your vet.
Treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, joint supplements (for example, glucosamine or omega fatty acids like camelina oil), physical therapy, or laser treatments can ease pain and improve mobility.
Pair these with lifestyle tweaks— like orthopedic beds, low-impact exercise, or weight management—to help your dog reclaim their joy in daily life.
Don’t forget that managing arthritis isn’t just about vet visits and medications. It should also include transforming your home into a place where your dog will be comfortable and get all the support they need.
Even small, thoughtful changes can be impactful—and a lot of these can add up and ease your dog’s pain, boost mobility, and reignite their spark. Here are some tips on how to create a joint-friendly space for your dog at home [2]:
While strenuous play or long hikes might be off the table, low-impact movement is key to maintaining muscle strength and flexibility. Work with your vet to design a routine that balances activity with rest:
Structured walks: Short, frequent strolls on soft surfaces (grass, dirt) instead of pavement.
Swimming: A pool or calm lake lets them move freely without joint strain.
Interactive games: Gentle puzzle toys or scent work keeps their mind engaged without physical stress.
Avoid sudden bursts of running or jumping, and let your dog set the pace—if they lag or sit down, it’s time to head home.
Orthopedic beds: Memory foam or heated beds cushion achy joints and reduce stiffness.
Ramps or stairs: Help them access couches or cars without jumping.
Non-slip floors: Add rugs or yoga mats to slippery surfaces to prevent falls.
Raised bowls: Elevate food and water dishes to ease neck and shoulder strain.
Extra pounds add pressure to already vulnerable joints. Talk to your vet to adjust portion sizes or switch to a weight-management diet. You can also incorporate low-calorie treats (think green beans or carrots) to avoid empty calories.
There are many small tweaks you can make in what the wear, their care and how they get their stimulation. Consider some of the following changes to make your dog more comfortable:
Paw protection: Booties or grips improve traction on hardwood floors.
Nail care: Keep nails trimmed to prevent awkward gait adjustments that strain joints.
Mental stimulation: Replace fetch with training games or lick mats to distract from discomfort.
Your vet will be your best friend in your quest to make your dog more comfortable. Once your vet diagnoses your dog, they might suggest tools like:
Joint supplements (e.g., glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega fatty acids) to support cartilage.
Laser therapy or massage techniques you can learn for at-home use.
Customized pain management plans, including medications or CBD oil (if approved).
Canine osteoarthritis doesn’t have to mean the end of adventure for your pup. By recognizing the early signs—whether it’s a subtle limp, stiffness after naps, or a reluctance to play—you can make meaningful steps to slow its progression and preserve their quality of life.
Proactive care is your best friend. Partner with your vet to create a tailored plan that makes small, yet powerful changes in your dog’s life. Remember, your dog’s health is a journey, not a destination. With your love and care, they can continue to live a happy, active life, arthritis and all.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
"Sarah is a marketing specialist with a passion for anything creative! Her openness to working across industries and job opportunities has allowed her to gain enormous amounts of experience in graphic design, video production, and written content creation. Animals have a special place in her heart as she grew up with cats and now owns her own Alaskan Malamute. She has spent the last couple of years in Vancouver working with different companies within the pet industry and gained valuable knowledge about the ins and outs of the (alternative) pet food industry, supplementation, and various training methods. When she’s not digitally creating content for pet lovers to consume, she’s out eating great food, dancing at drop-in classes, or exploring the beautiful Canadian scenery with her fur-child Miso."
