Dog Breeds with the Highest Chance of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects many dogs, especially as they age and larger dogs. Some breeds are more likely to develop osteoarthritis due to their size, body structure, and genetic predisposition. Below are the dog breeds most likely to develop osteoarthritis, along with the characteristics that contribute to this risk.

1. Labrador Retriever

Characteristics:

• Size and Weight: Labradors are large, heavy dogs, which puts extra strain on their joints.
• Genetic Predisposition: This breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, conditions that can lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
• Active Lifestyle: Their active nature can increase wear and tear on joints, especially if their weight and activity level are not properly controlled.

2. German Shepherd

Characteristics:

• Hip Dysplasia: German Shepherds have a high incidence of hip dysplasia, which is one of the leading causes of osteoarthritis in dogs.
• Body Size and Structure: Their large size and robust body structure increase pressure on joints, which can accelerate joint degeneration.
• Elderly: As they age, German Shepherds are particularly vulnerable to developing osteoarthritis in multiple joints.

3. Golden Retriever

Characteristics:

• Genetic Predisposition: Like Labradors, Golden Retrievers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which increases the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Body Weight: Their tendency to gain weight if not exercised properly can contribute to the load on the joints.
• Longevity: Because of their relatively long life expectancy, Golden Retrievers have more time to develop osteoarthritis as they age.

4. Rottweiler

Characteristics:

• Size and Musculature: Rottweilers are large, muscular dogs, which can put a lot of pressure on their joints.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This breed is susceptible to dysplasia, a condition that can lead to the development of osteoarthritis.
• Rapid Growth: Rottweilers grow rapidly during their puppy stage, which can put additional stress on their developing joints.

5. Saint Bernard

Characteristics:

• Giant Size: As a giant breed, the weight and size of the Saint Bernard put enormous pressure on its joints.
• Genetic Risk: This breed is prone to joint problems from a young age, including hip and elbow dysplasia.
• Inactivity: Their tendency to be less active can also contribute to joint stiffness and degeneration.

6. Neapolitan Mastiff

Characteristics:

• Extreme Body Mass: Neapolitan Mastiffs have an extremely heavy body mass, which significantly increases the load on their joints.
• Predisposition to Dysplasia: They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
• Rapid Aging: This breed ages rapidly, which is often accompanied by rapid joint deterioration.

7. English Bulldog

Characteristics:

• Body Structure: English Bulldogs have a compact and heavy body structure, which can cause premature wear and tear on the joints.
• Congenital Joint Problems: They are prone to congenital joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, which can lead to osteoarthritis.
• Limited Mobility: Their limited mobility and propensity to be overweight aggravate joint problems.

8. Dogue de Bordeaux

Characteristics:

• Large Size: Dogues de Bordeaux are a large, muscular breed, with considerable weight that can negatively affect the joints.
• Genetic Predisposition: They have a genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia, which can lead to osteoarthritis over time.
• Rapid Growth: Like other large breeds, their rapid growth can increase pressure on the joints during development.

9. Great Dane

Characteristics:

• Giant Size: Great Danes are one of the largest breeds, which means that their joints bear a heavy load.
• Short Life Expectancy: Although they don’t live as long as other breeds, their size makes them more susceptible to joint problems such as osteoarthritis.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This breed is particularly vulnerable to dysplasia, a common precursor to osteoarthritis.

10. Beagle

Characteristics:

• Predisposition to Hip Dysplasia: Although they are medium-sized, Beagles can also suffer from hip dysplasia, which can lead to osteoarthritis.
• Overweight: Beagles are prone to weight gain, which increases the risk of joint wear.
• Physical activity: Their high level of energy can lead to wear and tear on the joints if their activity is not properly managed.

The breeds mentioned are just a few of those that have a higher chance of developing osteoarthritis. However, it is important to note that osteoarthritis can affect any dog, regardless of breed, especially as it ages. To minimize risk and manage the condition if it develops, it is critical to maintain a healthy weight, provide adequate exercise, and monitor joint health through regular visits to the veterinarian. In some cases, early intervention and proper management can help slow the progression of osteoarthritis and improve the dog’s quality of life. We have also developed a guide to improve, as far as possible, the lives of dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.

Bibliography and Sources

• Clements, D. N., Carter, S. D., Innes, J. F., & Ollier, W. E. (2006). “Genetic basis of secondary osteoarthritis in dogs with joint dysplasia.” American Journal of Veterinary Research, 67(5), 909-918.
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16649929/

• Comhaire, F. H., & Snaps, F. (2008). “Comparison of dietary supplementation with chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and the combination of both substances for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis.” The Veterinary Record, 162(13), 427-431.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9929184/

• Kapatkin, A. S., Arbittier, G., Mayhew, P. D., Garcia-Nolen, T., & Stover, S. M. (2006). “Risk factors for development of hip dysplasia in dogs.” Veterinary Surgery, 35(5), 467-474.
  Link: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/206/5/javma.1995.206.05.642.xml