Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Arthritis isn’t only an old-dog problem. Young dogs can develop it early because of developmental joint problems, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, osteochondrosis, or a slipping kneecap, or after an injury. Signs in puppies and young dogs include limping, bunny-hopping, stiffness after rest, and reluctance to play. Early diagnosis matters, because some problems can be corrected with surgery before arthritis sets in.
Common causes in young dogs
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Osteochondrosis (OCD): abnormal cartilage in the shoulder, elbow, knee, or hock
- Luxating patella
- Cruciate ligament injury (can occur in young, active dogs)
- Joint injuries
- Immune-mediated or tick-borne joint disease, less commonly
Other causes of limping in puppies
Panosteitis (“growing pains”), fractures, and infections can also cause lameness in young dogs. Your vet can tell them apart.
Signs to watch for
- Limping, especially after rest or play
- Bunny-hopping with both back legs
- Sitting or lying down awkwardly
- Tiring quickly on walks
- Clicking or popping joints
Diagnosis and treatment
- Exam and X-rays, sometimes sedated for specific hip or elbow views
- CT scans for some elbow problems
- Surgery for some conditions (for example, certain hip procedures are only possible while dogs are young)
- Weight control, pain relief, and rehab
Protecting growing joints
- Feed a puppy food designed for your dog’s expected adult size.
- Keep puppies lean, not chubby.
- Avoid repetitive high-impact exercise and jumping from heights while growing.
- Choose puppies from parents screened for hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Discuss spay/neuter timing with your vet, since it may affect joint risk in some large breeds.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Developmental orthopedic diseases in dogs
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA): Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hart BL, et al. Assisting decision-making on age of neutering for 35 breeds of dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2020
- Kealy RD, et al. Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs. JAVMA. 2002
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.