Subtle Signs of Arthritis Pet Parents Frequently Miss

Added: 2026-05-06

[00:00:00]Most dogs with arthritis do not limp.

[00:00:02]When folks think of arthritis, they think of limping, but most dogs with arthritis never limp at all. It's rarely the first symptom. Instead, the signs are subtle. Hesitating before stairs, taking longer to stand up, sleeping more, avoiding the play or reducing the play that they loved once so, so much, becoming irritable when touched. These changes often happen slowly, insidiously, and go unnoticed. They are underscoring pain that's happening in our pets, and we need to pay attention.

[00:00:30]Arthritis is painful, and when it occurred, it affects their mood, it affects their behavior, and it affects their trust in us. The good news is when arthritis is identified and managed early, dogs move better, feel better, and trust us more. They can connect or reconnect with the people they love most. I'm Dr. Bruce, and catching arthritis early changes everything with our pets.