How does a dog act when they have arthritis?
Weston Schuster
2025-08-01 15:02:02
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Symptoms include difficulty getting up from lying down especially in the morning. Lameness, usually of gradual onset, can also occur. Problems climbing up or down stairs or jumping into the car are common. Dogs may not be able to walk so far or so fast. Possible temperament changes, such as becoming grumpy, can happen. Licking of the affected leg or other objects may also be seen. As an arthritic joint is painful, the leg is not used as much as normal. This leads to loss of muscle, stiffness and a change in gait. All these changes in one limb can lead to extra stress and strain being put on the dog’s other limbs and back.
Anika Gislason
2025-08-01 14:53:36
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A dog who’s limping, trembling, moving slowly or struggling to get up after sleeping — or who is just plain “stiff” until he gets moving — is a likely candidate for a diagnosis of arthritis. When you’re talking about arthritis pain, decreased appetite is one of the most common signs. Dogs don’t feel like eating when they’re hurting. But, really, any behavior that’s out of character for your dog may be a sign of pain, including snapping, “forgetting” house-training or appearing agitated. A dog struggling to relieve his arthritis pain may contort himself into some strange positions, none of which will help. If your dog is suddenly whining or crying when he moves, he’s letting you — and the world — know that he’s in pain. He may also cry out when you’re petting him. Alternately, he may bark less, just because barking is too much trouble.
Cristal Krajcik
2025-08-01 12:51:04
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Arthritis is a progressive joint disease and symptoms develop and worsen over time. You may notice your dog slowing down and taking it easier when out and about on walks. They may also become reluctant to play or go up and down stairs, and they might struggle to get up after long periods of rest. The condition becomes worse in cold weather, so if they appear stiff or slow or yelp out in pain during the winter months, this could be a sign of arthritis. Other symptoms of arthritis in dogs include: Limping or lameness A stiff walk that is worse when first waking up Groaning or caution when lying down or getting up Being wary of joints being touched Tiredness Irritability Licking or chewing at joints.
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