Also called degenerative joint disease, OA (Osteoarthritis) usually develops over years in dogs, and symptoms include pain, stiffness, tenderness, and a limited range of motion and may cause a grating sensation during movement. The pain usually is worse after activity and ranges in severity from pet to pet. If you've noticed that your dog doesn't run to the front door when you pull out his leash, or maybe he's a lot slower getting down from the couch, he could be developing arthritis. Of course, you'll want to take him to your veterinarian to find out the cause of his changed behavior, but you should know that canine arthritis is extremely common.

However, is age really linked to Arthritis? Let’s take a look at the top 3 myths to find out!

Myth 1: Only Old Dogs Need To Worry About Arthritis

Arthritis is the most common source of pain for our canine friends as they age, but the condition can also be seen in very young dogs. A degenerative disease, arthritis most often results from everyday wear and tear of the joints. In order to preserve your pet’s quality of life, visit the veterinarian to receive advice and arthritis therapy. In short, each dog is different with a varying DNA and gene. Since Arthritis is also hereditary, age could be a non-linking factor here. Study your dog well!

Myth 2: Osteoarthritis Can Be Cured

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are many kinds of arthritis and there is no cure for most types. However, they say that "Early diagnosis and appropriate management are important, especially for inflammatory types of arthritis."

For example, early use of disease-modifying drugs, and especially biologic drugs, can affect the course of arthritis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a difference in pain and joint damage. Survey the perfect supplement for your furry pal in the market! (anchor text for orthoron web page)

Myth 3: Your Dog Must Stop Exercising!

Exercise helps ease arthritis pain and stiffness! As you consider starting an arthritis exercise program for your furry buddy, understand what's within its limits and what level of exercise is likely to give it results. Exercise is crucial for dogs with arthritis. It increases strength and flexibility, reduces joint pain, and helps combat fatigue. Of course, when stiff and painful joints are already bogging your doggie down, the thought of walking around the block or playing fetch might seem overwhelming.

But they don't need to run a marathon or swim as fast as an Olympic competitor to help reduce arthritis symptoms. Even moderate exercise can ease their pain and help them maintain a healthy weight. When arthritis threatens to immobilize your furry pal, exercise keeps it moving!