Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions we treat at Village Vet, and one of the most commonly missed by pet owners - not because they're not paying attention, but because dogs are remarkably good at quietly adapting to pain. By the time most owners notice something is wrong, the condition has often been building for months.

The encouraging thing is that with early diagnosis and the right management, most arthritic dogs can live comfortably and happily for years. Here's what to look for, and what we can do together.

What is arthritis in dogs?

Arthritis - or osteoarthritis - is the gradual breakdown of cartilage inside a joint. Cartilage cushions the ends of bones; as it wears away, movement becomes painful and the joint may become inflamed or swollen. Over time, the body tries to stabilise the joint by forming new bone, which can make things worse.

It most commonly affects the hips, elbows, knees and spine, and is more likely in:

• Older dogs (though it can start in dogs as young as five or six)

• Larger and heavier breeds

• Dogs who've had previous joint injuries or surgeries

• Dogs with conditions like hip or elbow dysplasia

  
  

That said, arthritis can affect any dog, regardless of size or breed.

Signs your dog might have arthritis

The signs are often gradual, which is why they're easy to attribute to "just getting older." Here's what to watch for.

• Morning stiffness - Does your dog seem stiff and slow to get up after sleeping? Do they take a few steps to loosen up before they're moving properly? Stiffness that improves once a dog "warms up" is one of the most telling signs of arthritis - and it tends to be worse in cold or damp weather, which is why winter is often when owners first start to notice it.

• Reluctance to exercise - A dog who used to be enthusiastic about walks may start lagging behind, sitting down mid-walk, or showing less interest in going out at all. This isn't stubbornness - it's pain.

• Difficulty with stairs and jumping - Hesitating before climbing stairs, struggling to get in or out of the car, or refusing to jump up onto the couch they've always loved - these are common signs of joint pain. You may notice your dog approaches these things more cautiously than they used to.

• Limping or favouring a leg - Arthritis in one joint will often cause the dog to put less weight through that leg. This can be subtle - a slight head bob, or one leg that moves a little less fluidly than the others.

• Changes in behaviour or temperament - Pain changes personalities. A dog in chronic discomfort may become grumpier, less playful, more withdrawn, or reluctant to be touched in certain areas. Some become clingy; others pull away. Any meaningful shift in your dog's temperament is worth a conversation with us.

• Licking or chewing at joints - Dogs often lick or chew at painful areas. Persistent attention to the elbows, hips or knees - especially if the skin starts to look irritated - can be a sign of joint pain underneath.

• Muscle loss over the hindquarters - When a dog stops using a painful leg fully, the muscles around it start to waste. You might notice one leg looking slightly thinner than the other, or a general loss of muscle definition over the back end.
  

How we diagnose arthritis

If you suspect your dog might have arthritis, the first step is a physical examination. We'll feel along the joints, assess your dog's gait and range of motion, and find where the discomfort is greatest. From there, X-rays are usually recommended to confirm the diagnosis and see how much the joint has changed. Blood tests may also be done to check organ function before starting certain medications.

How we treat arthritis at Village Vet

Arthritis can't be reversed, but it can be very effectively managed. Every dog's treatment plan looks a little different depending on their age, weight, breed and the severity of the condition.

Here's what we typically draw on.

• Laser therapy - We offer therapeutic laser treatment at Village Vet, and it's one of our most effective tools for managing arthritis. The laser works by stimulating cellular repair and reducing inflammation in the joint, providing genuine pain relief without medication. Many dogs visibly relax during treatment - some fall asleep. Sessions are short, completely painless, and the results are often noticeable after just a few treatments. It's particularly useful for dogs who can't tolerate anti-inflammatory medications, or as a complement to other therapies.

• Pain relief and anti-inflammatories - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone of arthritis management for most dogs. They reduce inflammation and pain and are safe for long-term use under veterinary supervision. We'll do regular check-ins and blood tests to monitor organ health while your dog is on these medications.

• Weight management - Excess body weight puts significantly more strain on already-painful joints. Even modest weight loss can make a meaningful difference to a dog's comfort. If weight is a factor, we can help you develop a safe, realistic plan.

• Joint supplements - Glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids are commonly recommended alongside other treatments. They won't replace medication, but they can play a useful supporting role - and for dogs with mild arthritis, they're sometimes enough.

• Adjustments at home - Small changes can make a big difference: an orthopaedic bed to reduce pressure on joints, a ramp for the car, non-slip mats on hard floors, and raised food and water bowls so your dog doesn't have to bend as far to eat and drink. We can advise you on what's likely to help most for your dog's specific situation.

• Advanced options - For dogs who need more, options include Librela (a monthly injectable medication for arthritis pain), corticosteroid injections, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy or referral to a specialist. We'll walk you through everything that's available and help you decide what makes the most sense.

The sooner, the better

The most important thing to know about arthritis is that earlier diagnosis leads to better outcomes. We can't undo the joint changes that have already happened, but we can slow progression and - more importantly - keep your dog comfortable and active for as long as possible.

If your dog is showing any of the signs above, even mildly, it's worth having them assessed. A short appointment now could mean years of comfortable, happy life ahead.

Book an appointment at Village Vet - call 03 9827 7500 or book online.