Updated October 11, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Most arthritis in dogs develops after a joint has been damaged or formed abnormally. Common causes include hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament tears, kneecap (patella) problems, past injuries, and years of wear. Obesity speeds it up. Less commonly, arthritis is caused by infection or immune disease. Keeping dogs lean and treating joint problems early are the most effective ways to limit it.
Common causes
- Hip dysplasia: an inherited, poorly fitting hip joint, common in large breeds.
- Elbow dysplasia: abnormal elbow development, common in Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers.
- Cruciate ligament rupture: the canine equivalent of an ACL tear. Arthritis follows in the knee.
- Luxating patella: a kneecap that slips, common in small breeds.
- Osteochondrosis (OCD): abnormal cartilage development in young, fast-growing dogs.
- Joint injuries and fractures that involve the joint surface.
- Aging and years of joint use.
Less common causes
- Infection in a joint (septic arthritis), often in one joint with sudden pain and swelling
- Immune-mediated polyarthritis: several swollen joints, fever, and lethargy
- Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease
Risk factors you can influence
- Body weight: lean dogs develop arthritis later and less severely.
- Puppy growth: large-breed puppies should eat a large-breed puppy food and stay lean.
- Exercise: regular moderate activity keeps muscles supporting joints.
- Breeding choices: choose puppies from parents screened for hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Early treatment of joint injuries.
When to see a vet
See your vet for stiffness, limping, or reluctance to exercise. Sudden lameness or swollen, hot joints need prompt attention.
More: arthritis symptoms in dogs and treatment options.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Osteoarthritis in dogs
- Kealy RD, et al. Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. JAVMA. 2002
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA): Hip and elbow dysplasia information
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.