Agility, working, or racing dogs may be prone to problems due to the nature of these activities.

Other problems may be due to conformation such as the long-backed, short-legged breeds (dachshunds, bassets, etc.) and this is often exacerbated by being overweight.

Symptoms that dogs may show include:

•  Crying out when getting up
•  Difficulty climbing stairs or jumping into cars
• Showing discomfort when stroked along their backs
•  Reluctance to exercise
•  Intermittent stiffness/lameness