12 signs your dog may have osteoarthritis
Diagnosing early could help your older dog live a more comfortable and longer life.
The 12 most common signs of arthritis in your dog can include:
- Limping or not putting their weight on one of their paws
- Not wanting to walk or not much enthusiasm for it
- Struggling or avoiding climbing up or down stairs
- Difficulty getting comfortable
- Sleeping more than usual
- Changes in mood or behaviour
- Lacking energy or seeming depressed
- Licking the joints
- Pacing at night
- Weakness of the back legs
- Difficulty going to the toilet
- Changes to posture or appearance
Just like in humans, senior dogs can get arthritis in their joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness, as they get older. Osteoarthritis, often referred to as OA or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), is the most common type of arthritis.
Arthritis can develop at any age but it’s more likely to affect older dogs. It’s estimated that by eight years old, four out of five dogs will suffer from OA in one or more joints.
Arthritis can develop due to malformed joints, such as hip dysplasia, injuries, or trauma. Dogs that are very active can experience chronic low-grade trauma, eventually causing joint problems.
In a healthy joint, the ends of the bones are covered in cartilage which acts as a shock absorber and allows the joint to move smoothly. In a joint with arthritis, the cartilage is damaged. This causes discomfort on movement and, in severe cases, can mean bone rubs on bone which is very painful. The body tries to limit movement by creating spurs of new bone called osteophytes. Unfortunately, these only add to discomfort.
We cannot cure arthritis. Once your dog has it, it gets worse over time, but spotting it early means you can give your dog a more comfortable life.
If you think your older dog may be affected, you should arrange for them to be assessed by a vet. If you’re not already registered to one in your area, you can search for one of our local practices
What to look out for
Are they limping or not putting their weight on any of their paws?
Refusing or being reluctant to put weight through a leg is a sign of pain, and if this lasts more than a day your dog should be examined by a vet. There are many causes of limping that are not arthritis, but some can lead to arthritis if untreated, so it is always worth getting this checked.
Are you noticing that they don’t want to go for a walk?
Most dogs love going for run around the park but as they get older, you may notice a change in their excitement or willingness to walk. This could indicate that movement is becoming uncomfortable
Are they avoiding climbing up or down stairs?
Climbing up or down stairs or jumping (such as in and out of the car) needs dogs to stretch their limbs out fully. If the joints are uncomfortable this is likely to be difficult, so dogs with arthritis often take stairs very slowly or are reluctant to do them at all.
Are they having difficulty getting comfortable?
You may notice that your dog is repositioning themselves a lot when they sit down or go to sleep. This can be a sign that certain positions are uncomfortable or they’re struggling to settle because their joints are stiff. If this is a new change, or seems to be getting worse, it is worth getting your dog examined by a vet
Are they sleeping more than usual?
This on its own doesn’t mean OA, but older dogs with uncomfortable joints often struggle to get good quality sleep, so may sleep more to compensate.
Have you noticed changes in mood or behaviour?
If your dog is normally energetic and friendly, but gradually becomes uninterested or more grumpy, it could be because their joints are causing them pain or stiffness, particularly if they’re senior in years. Other health problems can also cause behavioural changes, so a vet check is advisable.
Are they licking their joints?
Dogs will often lick an area that is uncomfortable; this overstimulates nerve endings which helps block or numb the pain for a short time. If your dog starts licking specific joints repeatedly, it may be a sign of discomfort. A vet will be able to check for other injuries, and advise whether OA is a likely cause.
Have you noticed their back legs getting weaker?
If the joints are sore because of arthritis, most dogs try to move their legs less as a result. This might be taking smaller steps or not being as active. Eventually, the muscles become weak and wasted as a result, and you may see their whole back end looks weak, shaky or thin. Steadily rebuilding muscle with physiotherapy or hydrotherapy can make a big difference to comfort levels in arthritic pets.
Are they having difficulty going to the toilet?
Dogs need to squat, balance and lift their legs to wee or poo. As they get older, sore or stiff joints, or muscle loss, can make doing this more difficult. If it is uncomfortable to get up and go outside, they may hold their bladder for longer meaning accidents are more likely.
If you notice a few of these symptoms, it may be time to visit a vet. If you’re not already registered to one in your area, you can search for one of our local practices
Managing dogs with arthritis, especially larger breeds, can be costly. You can help spread the costs and save money by joining our Healthy Pet Club
Yes, your dog will need to see a vet if you suspect they have arthritis. An x-ray is required for a conclusive diagnosis, but your vet will often have a strong suspicion of arthritis based on examination and what you are observing at home. For some dogs, trialling treatment may be considered more appropriate than arranging x-rays.
A vet can also prescribe pain relief medication as well as advising you on how to best care for your dog at home. Some dogs have arthritis due to an underlying condition, and this may be treatable in its own right.
Joint supplements can help support joint health . Common ingredients include glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, green-lipped mussel, and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). These ingredients may help support cartilage health and reduce inflammation.
Supplements are not a sole therapy and should always be given alongside treatment from your vet.
Yes. Excess weight puts extra strain on a dog's joints, which can worsen pain, inflammation, and mobility issues. Weight management is one of the most important aspects of arthritis care and can significantly improve a dog's comfort and quality of life.
Even the smallest weight loss can reduce stress on affected joints, making everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing up easier.
Yes. Excess weight puts extra strain on a dog's joints, which can worsen pain, inflammation, and mobility issues. Weight management is one of the most important aspects of arthritis care and can significantly improve a dog's comfort and quality of life.
Even the smallest weight loss can reduce stress on affected joints, making everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing up easier.
Diets formulated for joint support often contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, and chondroitin. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly sourced from fish oil, may help reduce inflammation associated with joint disease.
For overweight dogs, calorie-controlled diets can be particularly beneficial because reducing excess weight significantly takes pressure off painful joints. Your vet can recommend the most appropriate diet based on your dog's age, size, and overall health.
Cold or damp weather itself does not cause arthritis, but changes in temperature and atmospheric conditions may make existing joint pain and stiffness more noticeable.
To help keep a senior dog comfortable during colder months, have a warm sleeping area, maintain regular gentle exercise, and follow any treatment plan recommended by your vet.