Dog Joint Health: Early Signs of Arthritis to Watch For

Arthritis Is More Common Than You Think

One in five adult dogs shows signs of osteoarthritis, and the number rises to 80% in dogs over eight years old. The challenge is that dogs are remarkably stoic — they rarely show obvious pain until the condition is advanced.

Six Early Warning Signs

• Reluctance to jump: your dog hesitates before getting on the sofa or into the car
• Slower on walks: they lag behind or sit down more frequently
• Licking specific joints: persistent attention to one knee, hip, or elbow
• Stiffness after rest: difficulty rising from bed, especially in cold weather
• Behavioural changes: irritability when touched in certain areas
• Muscle wastage: one leg looks thinner than the others

Why Early Detection Matters

Joint damage is progressive and irreversible. However, early intervention — weight management, joint supplements, and controlled exercise — can slow deterioration significantly and maintain quality of life for years.

What Your Vet Will Do

A joint assessment includes gait analysis, range-of-motion testing, and possibly X-rays. Blood tests rule out other causes of mobility changes. Your vet may recommend a trial of anti-inflammatory medication to confirm the diagnosis.

At-Home Management

• Weight control: every extra kilogram adds stress to already compromised joints
• Omega-3 supplements: fish oil has proven anti-inflammatory effects for canine arthritis
• Gentle exercise: short, frequent walks are better than one long session
• Orthopaedic bedding: memory foam reduces pressure on sore joints during sleep
• Ramps: replace stairs where possible — a ramp for the car or bed makes a big difference

Cold Weather Precautions

Arthritic joints are more painful in cold, damp conditions. Consider a dog coat for winter walks and ensure your dog's bed is in a warm, draught-free area of the house.

Regular vet check-ups — at least twice a year for senior dogs — catch joint problems before they become debilitating. Your dog can't tell you they're in pain, so watching for these subtle signs is your best tool.