Is My Dog Slowing Down Because of Age, or Could It Be Arthritis?

Perhaps your dog still brightens up when you pick up the lead, but your walks together have become a little slower. They take longer to get out of bed or wait for a helping hand beside the car.

It is natural to wonder whether they are simply getting older. At Blakehurst Vet, we can help you understand what has changed and support your dog in staying comfortable.

Quick answer: Is my dog slowing down because of age or arthritis?

Arthritis in dogs can cause stiffness after rest, slower walks and difficulty with stairs or getting up. These changes can also have other causes, so a vet examination is the best way to find out what is happening. Treatment can help many dogs move more comfortably and enjoy their usual activities.

If everyday activities are becoming harder for your dog, book a check at Blakehurst Vet. We will talk through what you have noticed and help you plan their care.

Is my dog getting older, or could they be uncomfortable?

An older dog may enjoy a different pace from their younger self. The useful question is whether they seem comfortable doing the things they usually enjoy.

Perhaps they still want to join you on the sofa but hesitate before jumping. Or they seem keen for a walk, then struggle to keep up. These changes can be signs of discomfort, even if your dog never cries or yelps.

Small changes are easy to miss when they happen gradually. Your observations help us understand what everyday life is like for your dog. Our article on early signs of illness in senior pets covers other changes you may notice as they get older.

What are the signs of arthritis in dogs?

Arthritis often becomes noticeable through everyday activities. Your dog might:

• Feel stiff when getting up after a nap.
• Walk more slowly or prefer a shorter outing.
• Hesitate at stairs or before getting into the car.
• Limp or move differently from usual.
• Spend less time playing.
• Find it harder to settle into a comfortable position.
• Seem more sensitive when touched or handled.

These signs can have several causes, so an examination is the best next step. Even a small change is worth mentioning if it is unusual for your dog.

What causes arthritis in dogs?

Osteoarthritis is a long-term joint condition that causes pain, inflammation and stiffness. It involves changes to the cartilage and other tissues that help joints move comfortably.

Although it is common in older dogs, younger dogs can develop arthritis too. Previous injuries and conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia can contribute. Carrying extra weight can also put more pressure on sore joints.

Could something else be making my dog slow down?

Yes. Sore muscles, injuries, back problems and other health conditions can affect your dog’s energy or movement. That is why we look at their overall health as well as their joints.

Changes in appetite, weight, thirst or toileting are helpful to mention during the appointment. If you have also noticed your dog drinking more water than usual, that may give us another clue about what needs checking.

What happens at an arthritis check?

We will start by talking through what has changed at home. Then we will watch your dog move, gently examine their joints and muscles, and assess their weight and general health.

A short video of your dog getting up or walking naturally at home can help us see changes that may be less obvious in the clinic. Simply capturing their usual routine is enough.

Depending on the examination, we may recommend X-rays or blood tests. X-rays can help assess joint changes, while blood tests can provide information about overall health and suitable medication choices. Our veterinary services include on-site pathology and X-rays. We will explain any recommended tests and how they could help.

How can we help a dog with arthritis?

There are several ways to help dogs with arthritis feel more comfortable. Although the condition cannot be cured, a tailored treatment plan can make everyday movement easier.

Depending on your dog’s needs, we may discuss:

• Pain relief, including anti-inflammatory medicines or injectable treatments when suitable.
• Support with reaching or maintaining a healthy weight.
• Gentle, regular exercise suited to their mobility.
• Physiotherapy or rehabilitation where appropriate.
• Dietary support or selected joint supplements.

We will talk through the options together, including any monitoring needed. Follow-up checks help us see how your dog is responding and adjust their care as their needs change.

Supplements may form part of that plan, alongside appropriate pain relief when your dog is sore.

Please check with us before giving any pain medicine, including human painkillers or medication prescribed for another pet. Some can be dangerous for dogs, and we can advise on a suitable option.

Small changes that can help at home

Making your home easier to move around can help your dog feel more confident and comfortable. You could try:

• Non-slip mats on smooth floors, especially along favourite routes.
• A supportive bed that is easy to step into.
• A suitable ramp to reduce jumping, if your dog is comfortable using one.
• Keeping everyday essentials within easy reach.
• Short, steady walks at a pace your dog can manage.

Gentle, regular movement often suits arthritic joints better than occasional strenuous outings. If your dog seems tired or sore, give them a break and let us know. We can help you find a balance between activity and rest.

When is a good time to book a check?

If your dog has become noticeably stiffer or is finding their usual activities harder, it is a good time to arrange an appointment. You can bring us the observations and questions, and we will help work out the next step.

For ongoing support, many older dogs benefit from six-monthly health checks. Our guide to how often your pet should have a health check explains how these visits can help us keep track of changes.

Sudden difficulty standing or walking, being unable to put weight on a leg, or severe pain needs immediate veterinary attention. If we are closed, contact an emergency vet.

Frequently asked questions about arthritis in dogs

What are the early signs of arthritis in dogs?

Early signs can include stiffness after resting, slower walks, difficulty getting up and hesitation at stairs. Some dogs become less playful or more sensitive to touch. A vet check can help identify what is causing these changes.

Can my dog have arthritis without limping?

Yes. Some dogs show general stiffness or reduced activity rather than an obvious limp, particularly when several joints are affected. Changes in how they get up, use stairs or enjoy walks can be useful clues.

Can my dog still enjoy walks with arthritis?

Often, yes. Short, regular walks at a comfortable pace can help maintain movement and strength. We can recommend a routine suited to your dog and adjust it if they seem sore afterwards.

Can arthritis in dogs be cured?

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but pain relief, weight management, suitable exercise and other treatments can improve comfort and mobility. We tailor care to your dog and review their progress over time.

Helping your dog enjoy their older years

You know the little things that make your dog themselves, from their favourite walking route to the way they greet you at the door. If something has changed, we are here to listen and help.

Blakehurst Vet is an independent, family-run clinic caring for dogs from Blakehurst, Hurstville, South Hurstville, Sylvania and across the St George and Sutherland Shire areas.

If your dog is slowing down, book an appointment at Blakehurst Vet or call (02) 9547 2750. We will check their mobility, discuss your concerns and recommend care suited to their needs.

We have parking and an entrance at the rear of the clinic. For people or dogs who find stairs difficult, our stair lift provides an alternative to the small flight of stairs at the back.