5 Important Practices That Can Prevent Orthopedic Problems in Your Dog

Orthopedic problems in dogs are the reason for growing concern among pet owners. Arthritis affects 20% of dogs that are around 1 year of age. This directly impacts the dog’s quality of life, and therefore, it is advisable to consult your trustworthy veterinary doctor. There are many medicinal and physical therapy methods to address your dog’s ailments. If your doctor suggests pet orthopedic surgery, then this can help you cure your dog’s disease. You need to fully eliminate disease risk, or you can take certain precautions at a very young age. Few practices can help you prevent orthopedic problems in your dogs beforehand. These are as follows:

• A Healthy Diet for Your Puppy                                                                                                           

A healthy diet is a first and foremost practice for preventing any potential orthopedic problem in dogs. Whenever you visit the supermarket to buy dog food, be aware of the ingredients and what is suited for your particular breed. Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia. It occurs in large breed dogs because their bones grow rapidly. They take extra calcium which affects their bones. Revise your dog’s diet and control the mineral and calorie intake so that faster bone growth can be halted.

• Neuter Them at the Right Time

Researches show that the majority of orthopedic problems occur among dogs that do not timely get neutered. Get them spayed at the age of 6 months. Testosterone and estrogen can be controlled if your dog is neutered at a very young age. These hormones play role in bone development. According to various studies, spayed or neutered dogs show a very low disease rate. It is best to get your pet neutered once their bones have fully grown so that future orthopedic risks can be avoided.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is as sensitive an issue among dogs and pets as it is in humans. It is the leading cause of arthritis and leads to wear and tear. Maintain your dog at an ideal weight as suggested by your family veterinarian. Provide your dog a regular and healthy diet with balanced calories. Take it out on a walk so the muscles and bones are exercised.

• Regular Mild Exercise

Exercise is crucial for human beings as well as dogs. It improves mental and physical health. You should take out your dog on a regular yet mild exercise depending on his age. Growing puppies should be prevented from running on hard surfaces that can dislocate their joints or hamper joint development. Take your young partner out on a mild walk on the grass and swimming. Swimming is the best option to prevent arthritis among young and older dogs.

• Keep it Trimmed

Last but not the least, trimming is the best practice you can carry at home to prevent orthopedic problems in your dog. It keeps your dog in an ideal body condition and a healthy weight. Trimming not only prevents obesity but also prevents arthritis. You can clearly identify his body condition score and maintain its ideal state.

Since orthopedic problems have increased rapidly among dogs, you need to be mindful of all the signs and cautions that can affect your dog. These steps and practices help you prevent any potential orthopedic problems in the dogs.