Small Changes, Sore Joints: Recognising Arthritis in Older Dogs

Perhaps your dog takes a little longer to stand after a nap. Maybe they pause before climbing the stairs or wait for help getting into the car. These changes can be easy to dismiss as a normal part of ageing, but they may also be signs of joint discomfort.

Arthritis can affect dogs throughout the year, including here in Townsville. Because it often develops gradually, many owners do not realise their dog is uncomfortable until their mobility has noticeably changed.

Recognising the early signs allows your veterinarian to investigate the cause and develop a plan to help your dog stay comfortable and active.

Is Slowing Down a Normal Part of Ageing?

Dogs may naturally become calmer as they grow older, but age itself should not cause ongoing pain.

A senior dog may prefer shorter walks or spend more time resting, but they should still be able to move comfortably and enjoy their usual activities. Difficulty standing, reluctance to exercise or changes in behaviour should not automatically be accepted as “just old age.”

Dogs are also very good at hiding discomfort. Instead of crying or showing obvious pain, they may gradually change the way they move, rest or interact with their family.

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation within a joint.

Osteoarthritis, often shortened to OA, is the most common form seen in older dogs. It develops gradually as the cartilage and other structures within the joint begin to deteriorate.

As the joint becomes less healthy, movement can cause stiffness, inflammation and discomfort.

Although osteoarthritis is more common in senior dogs, it can also affect younger dogs, particularly those with previous injuries, joint abnormalities or conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia.

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but it can often be managed with the right combination of treatment, exercise and lifestyle support.

The Rest-and-Rise Clue

One of the most common signs of joint discomfort is stiffness after rest.

Your dog may struggle to stand after sleeping but appear to move more freely after walking around for a few minutes. This improvement does not necessarily mean the problem has gone away. Gentle movement may temporarily loosen the joints, while the underlying condition remains.

Pay attention to how your dog moves:

• First thing in the morning

• After a long nap

• When getting into or out of the car

• When using stairs

• At the beginning and end of a walk

Taking a short video of your dog standing and walking at home can also be helpful, especially if they move differently once they arrive at the veterinary clinic.

Signs Your Dog May Have Joint Pain

Arthritis does not always cause an obvious limp. The first signs may appear as small changes in your dog’s daily routine.

You may notice that your dog:

• Takes longer to stand or lie down

• Walks more slowly or falls behind on walks

• Avoids stairs, jumping or slippery floors

• Hesitates before getting into the car

• Plays less or loses interest in longer walks

• Changes the way they stand or walk

• Licks repeatedly around a particular joint

• Has difficulty finding a comfortable resting position

• Becomes withdrawn, restless or irritable

• Dislikes being touched in areas that were previously comfortable

Reduced activity can also lead to muscle loss, which may make movement more difficult over time.

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Several conditions can cause stiffness, weakness or changes in mobility, so it is important not to assume that arthritis is always the cause.

During an appointment, your veterinarian may watch your dog walk, assess their posture and gently examine their joints, spine and muscles.

They will also consider your dog’s age, breed, weight, medical history and any changes you have noticed at home.

X-rays or other diagnostic tests may be recommended to assess the joints and rule out other possible causes of discomfort.

Supporting Your Dog’s Comfort and Mobility

Arthritis management is rarely based on one treatment alone. A personalised plan may combine pain relief, weight management, controlled exercise, nutrition and changes around the home.

Depending on your dog’s needs, your veterinarian may discuss the following options.

Veterinary Pain Management

Veterinary medications or other therapies may be recommended to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Never give your dog human pain medication unless specifically directed by a veterinarian. Many common medicines can be dangerous or toxic to pets.

Healthy Weight Management

Excess weight places additional pressure on sore joints. Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight can make movement easier and is an important part of long-term arthritis care.

Regular, Controlled Exercise

Complete rest may contribute to stiffness and muscle loss. Short, gentle and regular walks are often more suitable than occasional long or strenuous outings.

Your veterinarian can help determine how much activity is appropriate for your dog.

Rehabilitation and Joint Support

Some dogs may benefit from physical rehabilitation, therapeutic exercises, specialised diets or joint-support products.

Recommendations should be tailored to your dog’s individual condition, age and overall health.

Simple Changes You Can Make at Home

A few practical adjustments can make everyday movement safer and more comfortable:

• Place non-slip mats on tiled or polished floors

• Provide a supportive bed in an easily accessible area

• Use a ramp or step to reduce jumping into the car

• Keep food and water within easy reach

• Limit access to stairs when supervision is unavailable

• Keep your dog’s nails trimmed to improve grip

• Maintain a gentle and predictable exercise routine

Avoid suddenly increasing your dog’s activity on days when they appear more energetic. They may overdo it and become noticeably sorer later that day or the following morning.

When Should You Arrange a Check-Up?

Book a veterinary appointment if your dog’s movement, activity levels or behaviour have changed, particularly if the changes are becoming more frequent.

Early assessment can help identify joint disease before pain and reduced mobility have a greater impact on your dog’s quality of life. It also allows other possible causes of stiffness, limping or weakness to be investigated.

The Townsville Vet Clinic team can assess your dog’s mobility and recommend a management plan suited to their health, lifestyle and individual needs.

With the right support, many dogs with arthritis can continue enjoying their walks, family time and favourite activities comfortably.