Does My Dog Have Arthritis?

Chronic pain from arthritis is often experienced as insidious, consistent, and low-intensity, manifesting as non-localised discomfort that can flare up intermittently. Identifying chronic pain in dogs can be challenging, as the behavioral changes are subtle compared to the acute, sharp pain that typically elicits clear reactions like yelping or limping. Dogs may adapt to their discomfort by becoming less interactive, avoiding handling, or moving slowly and cautiously.

Chronic pain differs significantly from acute pain, which can lead to confusion for both pet owners and professionals. In many cases of chronic pain, subtle changes in behavior—such as signs of anxiety, fear, or decreased tolerance—may appear before any noticeable physical symptoms, such as a shift in posture or altered gait due to pain.

It is quite rare for dogs to vocalize distress in response to chronic pain, which can mislead owners who wait for more evident signs of acute pain, like whimpering or crying. By the time these overt symptoms appear, the dog may already be suffering from significant discomfort. Many owners don’t recognize pain until they observe their dog limping, a late indication that may signify the dog is already in considerable distress.

Dogs communicate pain through a variety of subtle signals, which often go unnoticed until the condition has advanced significantly. Don’t wait for your dog to limp or vocalize in discomfort to seek veterinary help; by that point, they are likely experiencing substantial pain.

It’s worth noting that many dogs may show arthritis in both forelimbs or hind-limbs, which can obscure a classic limp pattern.

By understanding the prevalence of arthritis in dogs, recognizing breeds, weights, lifestyles, or previous injuries that predispose them to this condition, and being attuned to how dogs express pain, we can catch the early signs of arthritis and initiate prompt treatment. Delaying diagnosis often results in significant disease progression, limiting treatment options and negatively impacting the success of interventions.

While any dog can develop arthritis, certain groups may be more susceptible:

• Medium to large breeds, such as Rottweilers, Labradors, and Springer Spaniels. For further information, visit the Orthopaedic Federation of Animals website.
• Dogs with known developmental joint issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, or osteochondrosis.
• Overweight or obese dogs.
• Dogs that have experienced trauma to a joint.
• Dogs that have undergone previous joint surgeries.

• Reduced enthusiasm for walks or noticeable hesitance to go outside.
• Reluctance to jump or navigate stairs.
• Stiffness in joints.
• Increased sleep time.
• Shifts in mood or temperament.
• Excessive licking of joints.
• Limping or lameness.
• Struggles to settle down or find comfort.

• Difficulty finding a comfortable position to relieve itself or issues with complete elimination.
• Noticeable changes in body shape.
• Alterations in posture, such as a roaching spine.
• Increased reactivity to other dogs or people.
• New or intensified sensitivity to noise.

• Phobias or heightened fears.
• Decreased tolerance to handling or routine care.
• Asymmetrical sitting or lying positions.
• Restlessness or constant unease.
• Changes in coat appearance, such as altered patterns or fur direction.
• Uneven wear on nails.
• Increased panting.
• Lowered head position.
• Loss of appetite.

This list is not exhaustive and aims to provide insight into the varied signs that may indicate arthritis and associated chronic pain.

Many symptoms of chronic pain can also suggest anxiety, as pain itself can provoke stress and fear. Seeking professional help can be crucial to identify the underlying cause of these signs and to support resolution as the condition is managed.

Recognizing pain in animals remains a challenge, yet several tools are available to assist us.

LOAD TOOL: The Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) tool is a well-respected, validated resource commonly used in veterinary care. This questionnaire aids in identifying and quantifying canine pain while also monitoring changes in condition during treatment.

CANINE BRIEF PAIN INVENTORY TOOL: Another validated tool developed by the University of Pennsylvania, widely utilized in veterinary practice.

HELSINKI CHRONIC PAIN INDEX: Commonly employed by veterinarians and therapists to identify and monitor pain related to osteoarthritis.

ACVS ORTHOPEDIC INDEX: A valuable resource for tracking changes in a dog's pain state.

SUSPICION OF CHRONIC PAIN TOOL: Created by CAM, this tool helps identify unexpected changes in behavior, posture, appearance, and mobility, providing clarity in discussing these concerns with your veterinarian.

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is essential to consult your veterinarian. Many symptoms associated with arthritis can also indicate other health issues, making a thorough history, clinical examination, and possibly further diagnostic tests—such as blood tests or radiographs—necessary to ensure appropriate management of your dog's condition. Assuming that 'slowing down' or 'aging' always suggests arthritis can lead to misdiagnosis, unnecessary expenses, and potential suffering for your dog.