"Hey you, if I'm lagging behind on walks, it's not 'cause I'm lazy. My joints might be achy, so let's take it slow and steady!”
- Willow
A change in personality?
We all want our dog to be happy and healthy, but sometimes our beloved pups experience changes in their behaviour that leave us concerned. One possible culprit behind these changes could be arthritis. Yes, you heard it right—dogs can develop arthritis too, and it's not just an old dog's disease. In fact, it’s usually young dogs who tend to be affected by arthritis. Surprising, isn't it? According to routine screenings, a whopping 2 in 5 dogs under 4 have arthritis1. So, if you've noticed your pup acting a bit off lately, don’t dismiss what they’re trying to tell you.
Spotting the tell-tale signs
When it comes to early arthritis in dogs, behavioural changes are often the first things we notice. Pain can take a toll on a dog's emotions, causing them to behave differently in an attempt to protect their inflamed joints.
So, what are the signs to look out for?
Here are a few indicators that your dog might be experiencing joint pain2:
Appearing lazy or reluctant
If you've noticed your once energetic pup lagging behind during walks or seeming less enthusiastic about playtime, it could be a sign of joint discomfort.
Half-hearted playtime
Your dog might not be as enthusiastic during playtime as they used to be. They might stop sooner than usual or engage in activities with less gusto.
Excessive yawning
Have you noticed your dog yawning repeatedly, even when they're not sleepy? This could be a subtle sign that they're experiencing joint pain.
Repetitive behaviours
Scrabbling or engaging in repetitive behaviours might be your dog's way of trying to alleviate joint pain.
Snappy or grumpy behaviours
Dogs in pain might exhibit warning signs, such as growling, snapping and being generally grumpy, or irritable towards other dogs or people.
Emotional neediness
If your usually independent pup suddenly becomes clingy and seeks more attention than usual, it could be a way of communicating their discomfort.
"I'm not trying to be snappy or grumpy, my dear human. Warning others is my way of saying 'ouch!' So, let's work together to make me feel more comfortable!”
- Axel
Making a difference for your dog
If you suspect that your puppy or young dog might be dealing with arthritis or another underlying joint condition, don’t leave them to suffer in silence. Early diagnosis is crucial in managing this progressive condition effectively. If you notice any signs that suggest early arthritis, consider capturing a video of your dog exhibiting these behaviours. Dogs can sometimes behave differently in a veterinary clinic setting, so having a visual record can be helpful during your vet visit.
During your veterinary appointment, the vet will ask you questions about your dog's behaviour and mobility. They will also conduct a thorough orthopaedic examination to assess the situation. Based on the results, they may recommend further diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog.
"When I ask for attention more, it's not just being clingy. It's my way of saying I need some extra love and care. Let's snuggle and make me feel better!”
- Roxy
A language of pain and suffering
Remember, your dog's behavioural changes might be their way of coping with ongoing pain and letting you know they're suffering. Listen to what they're trying to tell you and don’t let them suffer in silence.
References
[1] Enomoto, M. et al. (2022). Scientific Presentation Abstracts 2022 ACVS Surgery Summit. [2] Mills DS, Demontigny-Bédard I, Gruen M, et al. "Pain and problem behaviour in cats and dogs." Animals. 2020;10:318.
Bloggie Treats
See the latest articles
Welcome to Arthritis Aware blog, where you'll find valuable insights and information to help your dog combat arthritis and live their longest, happiest and healthiest lives.
Arthritis in dogs: Debunking the myth of an "Old Dog Disease"
This article explores how arthritis can affect dogs of any age, identifies breeds at higher risk, and offers tips for prevention and management.
Spotting Early Signs of Arthritis in Dogs: Don't Miss Out on Helping Your Dog
This article provides insights into identifying physical clues and emphasises the importance of early diagnosis and the benefit of treatment.
Is Your Dog Acting Different Lately?
Highlighting the common behavioural signs that serve as early warning signs of joint pain so your dog no longer needs to suffer in silence.
Helping Your Dog Thrive with Arthritis: Tips for a Happy, Active Life
Learn how to help your dog remain happy and comfortable when living with arthritis, optimising their diet and exercise regimes and ways to adapt th
Six Risk Factors That Can Increase Your Dog's Risk of Arthritis
Identifying risk factors for arthritis in dogs and taking preventive measures can help maintain joint health and reduce the likelihood of arthritis
Date of preparation: July 2023. UI-PET-0074-2023.