Both genetic and environmental factors can cause joint problems in dogs. For example, dog can be born with canine hip dysplasia (early onset hip dysplasia), develop it later in life (later onset hip dysplasia) or the dysplasia can be caused by environmental factors like rapid weight gain, pelvic injuries, poor nutrition, etc.

Early detection of joint problems is important, as it is easier to deal with all joint problems in the early stages.

Dogs' pain threshold is high, so they have often suffered from dog hip pain well before we notice it. No matter how old your dog is or which breed, always pay close attention to his activity level as it can give you vital clues about his joint health.

Detecting joint problems early on while the symptoms are still relatively mild, allows you to use less intrusive joint treatment options, like canine joint supplements. Good quality canine joint supplement supports the joints and can really help in those cases. 

Dogs with more advanced joint problems may have to go on prescribed medication, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) corticosteroids, or pain-relieving medications whose actions are related to morphine. These medications do not treat the cause of the problem and have serious side effects, making them unsuitable as long-term dog joint treatment.

In the most advanced cases, surgery may be needed, e.g. dog hip replacement or joint fusion. Surgery is not without a risk and can be costly if your dog is not adequately insured.   

It therefore makes perfect sense to try to prevent or delay the onset of dog joint problems for as long as possible.