Is your dog acting different lately?

A change in personality?

We all want our dog to be happy and healthy, but sometimes our beloved pups experience changes in their behaviour that leave us concerned. One possible culprit behind these changes could be arthritis. Yes, you heard it right—dogs can develop arthritis too, and it's not just an old dog's disease. In fact, it’s usually young dogs who tend to be affected by arthritis. Surprising, isn't it? According to routine screenings, a whopping 2 in 5 dogs under 4 have arthritis.¹ So, if you've noticed your pup acting a bit off lately, don’t dismiss what they’re trying to tell you.

Spotting the tell-tale signs

When it comes to early arthritis in dogs, behavioural changes are often the first things we notice. Pain can take a toll on a dog's emotions, causing them to behave differently in an attempt to protect their inflamed joints.

So, what are the signs to look out for?

Here are a few indicators that your dog might be experiencing joint pain²:

 

• Appearing lazy or reluctant

  If you've noticed your once energetic pup lagging behind during walks or seeming less enthusiastic about playtime, it could be a sign of joint discomfort.

   

• Excessive yawning

  Have you noticed your dog yawning repeatedly, even when they're not sleepy? This could be a subtle sign that they're experiencing joint pain.

   

• Snappy or grumpy behaviours

  Dogs in pain might exhibit warning signs, such as growling, snapping and being generally grumpy, or irritable towards other dogs or people.

   

• Half-hearted playtime

  Your dog might not be as enthusiastic during playtime as they used to be. They might stop sooner than usual or engage in activities with less gusto.

   

• Repetitive behaviours

  Scrabbling or engaging in repetitive behaviours might be your dog's way of trying to alleviate joint pain.

   

• Emotional neediness

  If your usually independent pup suddenly becomes clingy and seeks more attention than usual, it could be a way of communicating their discomfort.

Making a difference for your dog

If you suspect that your puppy or young dog might be dealing with arthritis or another underlying joint condition, don’t leave them to suffer in silence. Early diagnosis is crucial in managing this progressive condition effectively. If you notice any signs that suggest early arthritis, consider capturing a video of your dog exhibiting these behaviours. Dogs can sometimes behave differently in a veterinary clinic setting, so having a visual record can be helpful during your vet visit.

 

During your veterinary appointment, the vet will ask you questions about your dog's behaviour and mobility. They will also conduct a thorough orthopaedic examination to assess the situation. Based on the results, they may recommend further diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays, to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog.

A language of pain and suffering

Remember, your dog's behavioural changes might be their way of coping with ongoing pain and letting you know they're suffering. Listen to what they're trying to tell you and don’t let them suffer in silence.