Being a good dog owner doesn’t just mean getting the best food and toys that money can buy — it also means keeping an eye on your dog’s physical health. A dog can’t tell you that it’s in discomfort, though there are usually certain “tells” that will give away the problem. In a dog swollen hock joints can give away deeper issues at hand. However, you may not automatically notice a swollen hock on a dog; and don’t feel like a bad dog owner if you don’t catch it immediately. It’s estimated that 1 in 4 dogs in America are diagnosed with arthritis, and the diagnoses don’t always happen soon after the dog begins experiencing issues.


There are many reasons why dogs end up with arthritis and other forms of joint discomfort in the first place. If you’re searching for terms like “dog swollen hock joint” or “dog swollen ankle”, you may be experiencing some of these issues with your dog right now. Let’s explore why these problems happen in the first place — and what we can do to help our dogs recover and live with joint problems.

What Causes Joint Pain In Dogs?


Canine joint problems can be traced back to a number of different sources. In fact, it may not be preventable at all, depending on what type of dog you have. For example, the most popular breed since 2013 is the Labrador Retriever. In general, large dogs are rather popular in the United States. However, genetic problems tend to plague large breeds, and the more popular the breed, the more likely they are to produce problems like hip and elbow dysplasia.


Essentially, dogs with hip and elbow dysplasia have bone sockets that don’t full cover the ball portions of their joints. This causes chronic discomfort, as well as swollen joints. Owners can avoid these issues somewhat by buying responsibly, and only from reputable breeders. But even when breeders are as responsible as possible, puppies can be born with hip dysplasia — and they deserve great homes too! Some believe that mixed breed dogs avoid genetic problems like hip dysplasia; but they are as susceptible to the problem as any purebred dogs.


Of course, joint discomfort can also be related to stress produced throughout a dog’s life. It doesn’t matter if a dog’s joint discomfort is caused by problems over the years, or an issue that has always been lying in wait. If you’re looking up you’ve already recognized that you have a dog swollen hock joint problem, the next thing to do is figure out how to solve it.

How Can We Treat Canine Joint Pain?


When you’re dealing with a dog swollen hock joint issue, or perhaps swollen ankles or hips, you should follow your vet’s advice. But it’s important to not only treat the issue as symptoms arise, but incorporate treatments into your dog’s life. Keep in mind that most dogs benefit from daily aerobic exercises, as well as a daily 30 minute walk — but some dogs need a little more help.


This can include everything from therapeutic dog beds, to support braces, or perhaps even socks with ankle braces and therapeutic blankets. Support braces allow dogs to walk without putting as much stress on their joints. If you’re dealing with a dog swollen hock joint problem, for example, a brace may help that dog engage in the exercise it needs without further aggravating its problem. For some dogs, however, a bit more help might be necessary. A therapeutic mattress pad can help a dog sleep comfortably, without risking further pressure on its joints.

Can My Dog Live With Joint Problems?


In the past, joint problems could cripple a dog — but thanks to the products mentioned above and great vets, that is no longer the case. Proper techniques and treatments allow 76% of dogs with dysplasia and arthritis to leave great, happy lives. Don’t give up on your dog — rather, focus on how you can make small but important adjustments that will make its life a wonderful one.