6 Overlooked Symptoms of Arthritis Every Dog Owner Must Know
More than HALF of dogs over 7 years old have arthritis. WHAT?!? What’s worse is that by the time it’s usually diagnosed, these dogs are already in pain! And unfortunately the disease only gets worse and more painful over time.
The good news is that it can be diagnosed EARLY (as in BEFORE the limping and pain starts). And when it’s diagnosed early, you have a much better chance of slowing the disease down and keeping your dog happy and comfortable longer!
The problem is the most pet owners miss or overlook the early symptoms of arthritis because they can be really subtle.
But that’s not going to be you! Because you’re about to learn what the early symptoms of arthritis look like so you don’t miss the clues that this painful disease is starting in your dog!
6 Common EARLY Symptoms of Arthritis
- Slower to Get Up and Down
Most people know this one, but it’s still important to mention. Your dog may do great on walks and still bounce around the house acting completely normal, BUT they may just be a little slower to stand up from a laying position or be slower to lay down. And some dogs will stop sitting down entirely, preferring to go straight from standing to laying down.
Now keep in mind this doesn’t always mean arthritis. These symptoms could also be from weakness instead, such as from a spinal disc issue that’s causing the problem. But since both diseases get worse if left alone, it’s best to get your dog checked by your vet if you’re noticing these changes at home- a thorough exam can tell you which disease you’re dealing with so you can get it treated
2. Stiffness
Not all dogs with arthritis will limp, and actually the limping usually shows up in later stages of arthritis (meaning you don’t want to let it get that far!) Instead, arthritis often starts as a little stiffness.
Maybe your dog just isn’t bending their knees or hips as much when they walk or jump. Or perhaps they aren’t stretching as deeply when they first get out of bed. These can be very subtle changes in the beginning of arthritis so keep an eye out for them.
3. Accidents in the House
This is a common symptom with arthritis, but it’s often overlooked as another issue altogether. However, if you’re noticing occasional fecal or urinary accidents in the house all of a sudden, it could be that arthritis is starting.
4. Change in Typical Behaviors
Again, this may be subtle. Perhaps your dog is sleeping on the floor more instead of snuggling on the couch with you. Or they aren’t following you around the house or up and down the stairs like the usually do.
These types of changes usually mean something’s going on, and it’s often due to painful joints. So don’t ignore these little changes!
5. Irritability
Be observant if your dog is suddenly grouchy, especially when being touched around particular areas of their body. This could be while being pet, groomed, or when playing. You might just think your dog is getting grumpy in their old age, but it’s usually a good indication that they’re painful somewhere.
Now again, this pain may not be from arthritis, but if your dog is painful for any reason, it’s best to get it checked out.
6. Muscle Loss
Muscle loss is often subtle and goes unnoticed at first. With arthritis, it typically occurs over the thighs and/or shoulders initially. Your dog may still seem to be moving around just fine at home or on their walks, but this muscle loss could indicate that your dog isn’t using their legs the same way that they used to.
And the reason could be an uncomfortable joint.
Many diseases can cause muscle loss in your dog. But no matter the cause, once older dogs lose muscle in their body, it’s REALLY hard to regain that muscle and it typically just gets worse over time, making it harder and harder for your dog to get around. So if you can catch this early, your dog will be in much better shape!
What To Do Now
Since you know your dog best and you’re with them every day, it puts you in the perfect position to recognize any changes going on with them. It’s important to note that not every dog will have every symptom of arthritis, but watch closely for any of these subtle shifts that could indicate something’s going on.
Arthritis IS a treatable condition. And when caught early, you have a better chance of keeping your dog out of pain and slowing down the progression of the disease. And of course that means more happy, comfortable years with your dog :)
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