Is My Dog Just Getting Older… or Could It Be Arthritis?
“Doctor, I think he’s just getting old.”
I probably hear this sentence at least once every week.
A dog that no longer runs to greet you at the door. One that hesitates before jumping into the car. Or perhaps your once energetic walking companion now wants to turn back after just 10 minutes.
Many owners assume these are simply signs of ageing.
Sometimes they are. But very often, they’re signs of arthritis.
Dogs Don’t Usually Cry When They’re in Pain
One of the biggest differences between people and dogs is that dogs rarely tell us when something hurts.
Instead of crying or limping dramatically, they simply adapt.
They walk a little slower.
They sleep a little longer.
They avoid the stairs.
They stop jumping onto the sofa.
They don’t complain—they quietly change their lifestyle to avoid pain.
That’s why arthritis is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions we see in older dogs.
What Exactly Is Arthritis?
Think of a door hinge that’s been used every day for years. Over time, it becomes stiff and doesn’t move as smoothly.
The same thing happens inside your dog’s joints.
The protective cartilage gradually wears down, causing inflammation, stiffness, and pain whenever the joint moves.
Unfortunately, once arthritis develops, it cannot be reversed—but it can be managed.
Signs You May Notice at Home
Your dog may:
- Be slower getting up after a nap.
- Hesitate before climbing stairs.
- Stop jumping into the car.
- Slip more often on tiled floors.
- Sleep much more than before.
- Become less interested in walks.
- Seem grumpy when touched around the hips or legs.
Many owners tell me, “He’s just becoming lazy.”
Most of the time, I don’t think they’re lazy.
I think they’re sore.
What Can You Do?
The good news is that arthritis isn’t just about pain medication anymore.
Depending on your dog’s condition, treatment may include:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Regular, gentle exercise.
- Joint supplements.
- Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation.
- Laser therapy.
- Modern arthritis medications prescribed by your veterinarian.
Often, the best results come from combining several of these approaches.
A Veterinarian’s Perspective
One of my favourite moments is seeing a dog return for a follow-up visit a month after starting treatment.
The owner smiles and says,
“Doctor, he’s playing with his toys again.”
Or…
“He’s following me around the house like he used to.”
That reminds us of something important.
Many dogs don’t stop playing because they’re old.
They stop playing because they’re in pain.
Final Thoughts
Growing older is a privilege, but living with pain shouldn’t be part of it.
If your dog has slowed down, don’t assume it’s “just old age.” A simple examination may reveal arthritis—and with today’s treatment options, many dogs can enjoy many more happy, comfortable years.
Sometimes, giving an older dog their mobility back is one of the greatest gifts we can offer them.