12 breeds likely to develop condition that 40% of UK dogs suffer from

Just like humans, dogs can develop arthritis as they age. This common yet painful condition causes inflammation in the joints, leading to stiffness, lameness, and reduced mobility. While any dog can develop arthritis, some breeds are more prone to it than others due to their size, build, or genetic predisposition.

Recognising the signs early — like limping, difficulty getting up, or reluctance to play — can make a big difference in managing your dog’s comfort and quality of life. Research shows that 40% of the entire dog population in the UK suffers from arthritis, with arthritis affecting an additional 80% of dogs aged eight and over.

Some breeds — particularly larger ones — are more prone to the painful condition than others. According to research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Rottweilers are the breed most likely to suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis diagnosed in dogs.

In the study, which analysed 455,557 dogs, researchers found that Old English Sheepdog and Dogue de Bordeaux are also prone to the condition, while the large population of Labrador Retrievers in the UK makes them the most commonly treated breed in the UK.

Certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to joint problems, including hip or elbow dysplasia.

For example, breeds like Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are more likely to inherit joint abnormalities that lead to arthritis.

Larger breeds like Labradors, Great Danes, and German Shepherds are more likely to develop arthritis because they carry more weight, which puts extra stress on their joints over time. 

Working or sporting breeds often put more wear and tear on their joints due to high activity levels, which can make arthritis more likely as they age.