Joint pain is a common problem for dogs, and the larger breeds tend to have more problems in general. Many times this is caused by arthritis, and just like humans, it can become more severe as the animal ages. That said, there are other conditions that can cause joint pain in dogs. Bones that are weak and brittle, along with an inability to take colder weather can cause pain in the hips of many dogs. While visiting the veterinarian is always recommended for dogs suffering from joint pain, there are some easy things you can do at home to help your pet.

Special Bed Solutions - You can make or purchase a bed custom made for your dog that will help to alleviate joint pain and pressure. You can purchase these types of beds locally or you can order them online and have it custom made for your dog’s size and needs.

Stay Away From Hard Flooring — Floors constructed of wood or tile are very slick, making it hard for a dog with joint pain to maneuver. To alleviate this problem, either relocate your dog to an area covered with rough flooring or put a strip of carpeting down to help your dog get around easier.

Look Into a Ramp — If your dog has a difficult time getting up and down stairs, a dog ramp can be very helpful. Just keep an eye on your dog to ensure he or she is not jumping on the front legs all the time.

Provide Adequate Exercise - Many people assume that dogs with joint pain can’t do exercise which is not true. Make sure that your dog gets sufficient time to walk each day but split your exercise routine to several smaller ones so that your dog won’t get exhausted. Rather than letting your dog to chase a ball, it is better to take him/her for short walks.

Joint Friendly Diet - Whatever your dog’s age or physical condition, you need to ensure that his diet is healthy in order to prevent or help cure any physical problems. Your dog’s diet should be rich in vitamins, minerals and lean proteins in order to keep him in a healthy condition. Watch how much food your dog is consuming so that he does not become overweight and add more pressure to already weakened joints and hips.

Pet Massages - Believe it or not, giving your dog’s joints regular massages will help to relieve pain if you do it properly and effectively. You won’t see results from massage right away, however your dog will definitely feel the benefits from it if you do it on a regular basis.

Show Patience — Since joint pain will most certainly slow your pet down, make sure to give him extra time to come to you or walk. Be kind and patient with your animal. After all, your pet cannot help this condition. Remember that your friend may not be able to do things he or she once did, so keep this in mind when trying to take your dog out.

By following these easy tips, you can not only help to relieve your dog’s pain, but build a great relationship with your best friend in the process. It is important to note that medication should not be given to a dog without first consulting your veterinarian.

If your pooch has dog joint pain they are obviously in a lot of pain. I helped my dog Daisy overcome her arthritis with a simple natural remedy. You can find out more here: http://petarthritishelp.com/

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