| Due to the highly energetic nature of the Pit Bull, they | | | | There are many supplements available as well that |
| are more prone to joint problems and injuries. | | | | can be used to promote joint health. IT is best to |
| Irresponsible breeders also contribute to joint problems | | | | check with your veterinarian to find out if one is |
| in the Pit Bull. Many breeders fail to have adequate | | | | needed, and if so, which one would be best for your |
| health tests done for joint problems, and because of | | | | Pit Bull. Current research suggests that every dog |
| this, their animals are more likely to inherit genetic joint | | | | should receive supplements at the first signs of joint or |
| problems. | | | | muscle damage or weakness. These work well at |
| There are some things a Pit Bull owner can do to help | | | | helping to prevent damage, but can't do a lot with the |
| prevent joint injury. One simple thing is to have your | | | | damage that has already occurred, so it is important to |
| dogs warm up before they do their daily exercise. | | | | start them as early as possible. |
| Walk with them for at least fifteen minutes before | | | | One other thing that can help is to ensure your dog |
| they have their play session to help keep their joints | | | | has a comfortable bed. Baby mattresses tend to work |
| flexible. The warm up can help to prevent muscle | | | | well, especially for dogs that already have some joint |
| injury as well as strain on joints. | | | | damage. |
| Having your Pit Bull exercise and play on soft surfaces, | | | | Your veterinarian can also be a crucial part of keeping |
| such as dirt or grass, will also help prevent joint injury | | | | your Pit Bull healthy. If you suspect any problems with |
| by lessening the amount of impact on them. Hard | | | | joints or muscles, or signs of arthritis, it is imperative to |
| surfaces do a lot of impact damage over time to | | | | have it treated immediately. Your vet will perform a |
| knees and hips especially. | | | | very thorough exam, and take a complete medical |
| Weight control can also help reduce joint damage and | | | | history, including any injuries or procedures your Pit Bull |
| muscle strain, as well as other health problems. Your | | | | may have had. Blood work and x-rays will probably be |
| dog should get plenty of exercise as well to avoid | | | | done to help diagnose the problem. Your vet will then |
| obesity. Feeding puppies a lean diet can help to | | | | prescribe whatever medications and treatment |
| prevent them from developing hip dysplasia as they | | | | available to help your dog. |
| grow. | | | | |