As dogs grow older, many develop arthritis, a painful joint condition that affects their mobility and wellbeing. Recognising the signs of arthritis early on and getting treatment can help ease discomfort and slow its progression.

To check if your dog might be showing signs of arthritis, we’ve created a simple assessment.

Is your dog showing any of the following signs?

While dogs are good at hiding their pain, even subtle changes in their behaviour can indicate pain or discomfort. Have you noticed any of the following physical or behavioural changes in your dog?

Click those that apply to determine if a vet check-up is recommended.

Physical signs

Behavioural signs

Good news!

Based on your responses, it seems unlikely that your dog has arthritis.

Arthritis can appear at any time, which is why it’s important to keep an eye on how your dog moves and behaves, and if anything seems off, it’s a good idea to touch base with your vet. They can provide guidance and support to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Your dog matches some of the signs of arthritis

Based on your responses, you dog is showing some of the common signs of arthritis.

We recommend taking your dog to your vet for a check-up. Your vet will ask you about the physical or behavioural changes you’ve noticed (listed below), and they’ll perform a physical exam and diagnostics tests to determine if your dog has arthritis.

Common signs of arthritis

Physical or behavioural changes you’ve noticed

  • Walking stiffly
  • Lagging behind on walks
  • Limping after exercise
  • Slow to rise
  • Less playful
  • Withdrawn
  • Difficulty getting up and down
  • Reluctance to jump up or down
  • Unexpected aggression toward other dogs or humans
  • Sensitive or more vocal when touched
  • Resting in a different place than usual or having trouble sleeping
  • Walking stiffly
  • Lagging behind on walks
  • Limping after exercise
  • Slow to rise
  • Less playful
  • Withdrawn
  • Difficulty getting up and down
  • Reluctance to jump up or down
  • Unexpected aggression toward other dogs or humans
  • Sensitive or more vocal when touched
  • Resting in a different place than usual or having trouble sleeping

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