Arthritis is no laughing matter, especially when it comes to your dog. Canine arthritis is a serious condition that can super painful for your pup.
Dog arthritis can be found in any breed, typically at any age, although older and bigger dogs are more susceptible. Arthritis can occur after an injury or can be due to dog obesity. Either way, this disease isn’t fun and watching your dog struggle to walk is just heartbreaking. If left untreated, arthritis can cause irreversible damage to your dog’s joints. That’s why it’s so important to know the signs of dog arthritis, so you can find a treatment plan that will work best for the both of you. Take a look at our list below, and be sure to let us know if there are other common symptoms of dog arthritis that we’re missing.
1) Limping
If your dog is limping or favors one side, this could indicate arthritis.
2) Swollen joints
Of all people, your vet will be able to tell if your pup’s joints are swollen, but you may be able to indicate this as well.
3) Pain from touch
Normally, our dogs shouldn’t cry when we touch them. If your puppy does cry, it mean he or she is in pain.
4) Loss of flexibility
Arthritis makes the joints brittle, so your dog might not be able to move like he once could.
5) Fear of running or climbing stairs
Due to the impact these activities have on joints, many dogs with arthritis hesitate to do them.
6) Licking or chewing a joint
Just like any injury, this could indicate your dog is trying to heal himself.
7) Change in behavior
If you sense your dog is more aggressive or lethargic, it could be because he is uncomfortable.
8) Stiffness
Again, just like with humans, stiffness is a big indicator of dog arthritis.
