Just like people, dogs are susceptible to osteoarthritis as they age. Also called degenerative joint disease (DJD), it is the progressive, and ultimately permanent, long-term deterioration of the cartilage of the joints.

There is a range of DJD symptoms. If your dog is suddenly less active, this could be a sign of DJD. If your pet occasionally hobbles around with a stiff gait, this can certainly be an indication. Symptoms may be more obvious with exercise, or they may be evident after long periods of inactivity. Cold weather can also aggravate DJD. And just as there are many signs that reveal the Osteoarthritis condition a pet may have, there are equally  a variety of causes for it.

Osteoarthritis, as it manifests naturally ...

Unless you live on one of the Hawaiian Islands, winters can get cold. Even the hottest spots in the Arizona desert can get bitter cold at night, and as sweltering Southeastern states become in summer, it can get that bone-chilling damp-cold in winter. Just like humans, pets need to have proper  way to cozy up when the winter winds blow. Heated beds may be necessary in the colder regions of, say, Minnesota and Montana. With the exception of areas with extreme cold temperatures, however, your dog or dogs may be well served by pet warmers. If you are investigating pet warmers along with dog beds for sale, it is a wise consideration.

Furthermore, short hair and older dogs may be in regular need of thermal care year-round. With that...