Is your Dog at Risk?
The Top Breeds Prone to Joint Issues

While any dog can suffer from joint pain, genetics play a massive role. Certain breeds are predisposed to conditions like Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, and Arthritis. Knowing if your dog is on the "At-Risk" list is the first step in proactive care.

Small dogs often suffer from luxating patellas (kneecaps slipping out of place) and spinal issues.

Dachshund: Their long backs make them highly prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).
Pug: Susceptible to hip dysplasia and abnormal joint development due to their compact build.
French Bulldog: Prone to hemivertebrae (spinal deformity) and hip dysplasia.
Chihuahua: High risk for patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps).
Pomeranian: Their delicate frames often struggle with knee and ligament issues.
Yorkshire Terrier: prone to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (degeneration of the hip joint).
Shih Tzu: Their short legs can lead to elbow dysplasia and hip issues.
Boston Terrier: Another compact breed prone to spinal and knee defects.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: High risk for hip dysplasia and luxating patellas.
Miniature Poodle: Often carry genetic markers for hip degeneration and knee slips.

Active and athletic, these breeds often wear down their joints faster, leading to early-onset arthritis.

English Bulldog: Almost universally prone to hip and elbow dysplasia due to their heavy build.
Basset Hound: Heavy bodies on short legs create immense joint strain and spinal risks.
Boxer: High susceptibility to hip dysplasia and arthritis as they age.
Border Collie: High-activity dogs that are prone to wear-and-tear arthritis and hip issues.
Cocker Spaniel: susceptible to patellar luxation and hip dysplasia.
Chow Chow: Their straight hind legs contribute to a high risk of cruciate ligament tears.
Beagle: Prone to IVDD (spinal disc issues) and hip dysplasia.
Australian Shepherd: Genetic predisposition to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Springer Spaniel: prone to elbow dysplasia and generalized joint inflammation.
Shar-Pei: prone to swollen hock syndrome and hip dysplasia.

Weight is the enemy here. The sheer mass of these dogs puts massive pressure on hips and elbows.

German Shepherd: Infamous for hip and elbow dysplasia; hind-end weakness is common.
Golden Retriever: Highly prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis, especially if overweight.
Labrador Retriever: The #1 breed for arthritis and elbow/hip dysplasia.
Rottweiler: Genetic weakness in hips and elbows is very common.
Great Dane: Rapid growth rates often lead to skeletal and joint deformities.
Saint Bernard: Their massive weight leads to severe arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Bernese Mountain Dog: Extremely high rates of elbow and hip dysplasia.
Newfoundland: Prone to cruciate ligament ruptures (ACL tears) and dysplasia.
Mastiff: Their giant size makes arthritis almost inevitable in senior years.
Old English Sheepdog: Susceptible to hip dysplasia and "wobbler syndrome."

Don't wait for a yelp. Watch for these silent signs of pain: