It can be challenging to diagnose osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs, primarily because the signs may be subtle and sometimes misinterpreted as normal age-related changes. Start paying closer attention to your pet if you notice the following little behaviors. They may be a sign of a much bigger issue.
A Little Bit Stiff. If your dog displays difficulty when getting up, walking, or climbing stairs, it may be a sign of OA pain. Be on the lookout for limping or stiffness.
A Little Less Play. Does that favorite Kong toy seem to have lost its appeal? A decrease in playfulness or exercise could indicate that your dog is experiencing discomfort.
A Little More Weight. Is Leo looking a bit more – er – well fed lately? OA can lead to reduced mobility, which may result in weight gain due to decreased physical activity.
A Little Personality Change. Do you sometimes feel like you are dealing with a different pet than the one you’ve always known? Keep an eye out for any changes in your dog’s behavior – mood changes or irritability can sometimes be a sign that your dog is in pain.
A Little Tender. Does your dog flinch instead of welcoming cuddles? Look for signs of pain when you touch specific joints.
If your dog exhibits any of these behaviors, talk to us. We’ll examine your dog to try to diagnose the reason. If we discover that it is osteoarthritis, we’ll talk to you about Librela®, an amazing, cutting edge drug that can markedly reduce symptoms of OA. A little conversation with us can lead to a big change in your dog’s quality of life.
