Is your dog at risk for hip dysplasia?  This disease of the hip joint can develop into arthritis later on.  Certain breeds such as Labrador and Golden retreivers are more at risk for this disease. Dr. Bill Smith, a professor of small animal surgery at the University of Illinois says that any large breed dog can develop this problem. If you have a large dog, ask your vet when your puppy is under a year old if hip dysplasia may be a problem and what you should do about it. He will tell you want signs to look for and treatment that is available including pet medication to ease the pain.