Dog arthritis symptoms

And other signs your dog is getting older

If your pup hesitates at the bottom of the stairs, or just can't make the jump onto the bed anymore, they might be developing some arthritis.

It's a small thing, but it's the kind of small thing that breaks your heart a little. And it can happen to even the most proactive pet parents. 

Here's what we'll cover today:

• Common dog arthritis symptoms, and signs of aging

• The mental and behavioral signs people miss

• What actually helps your pup, beyond the vet visit

Dog arthritis symptoms

Arthritis is one of the most common things vets see in older dogs. 

At least 20% of dogs over one year old have it, and that number climbs to around 80% in dogs over eight years old. ^[1] 

Most owners miss the early signs because the changes come on slowly.

What to look for:

• Trouble getting up from lying down, especially after resting for a while

• Limping or stiffness, particularly in the morning or after activity

• Hesitating at stairs or skipping the jump onto furniture they used to take without thinking

• Shorter, slower walks with less enthusiasm than before

• Muscle loss in the back legs, which can look like the hips are getting narrower

• Joint swelling, or a crunchy feeling in the joints when you move them ^[3]

• Licking or chewing at a sore area, which can be a sign of discomfort

If you're seeing several of these signs, a vet visit is the right next step. Because a proper diagnosis makes a real difference in how you treat it.

Takeaway: Arthritis in older dogs is very common and easy to miss early on because the signs build slowly. Stiffness that improves after movement is one of the first things to watch for.

Mental and behavioral signs people miss

Physical changes get noticed because they're visible. But some of the most telling signs of aging show up in your dog's behavior. 

Watch for these:

• More irritable or withdrawn than usual, including snapping or growling when touched in ways they used to tolerate

• Confusion or disorientation, like getting stuck in a corner or forgetting where their water bowl is

• Disrupted sleep, waking up more at night or sleeping at unusual times

• Losing interest in things they used to love, including walks, toys, or greeting you at the door

A dog in chronic pain often acts grumpy or distant. For example, a normally affectionate dog who starts pulling away when you reach for them is often telling you something hurts. ^[2]

What actually helps beyond the vet visit

Start with your vet. A proper diagnosis tells you what you're actually dealing with and opens up treatment options that make a real difference. 

What a lot of owners look for alongside that is a natural layer of additional support. 

Something that can help their dog feel better day to day without adding more medication.

Sens Labo's Pet NMN Longevity + Joint Care is formulated for exactly that.

What is NMN?

• NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is a compound that supports NAD+. 

• NAD+ is a molecule involved in how cells produce and use energy. 

In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in senior dogs, those receiving an NAD+ precursor formula showed meaningful improvement in owner-assessed cognitive function over six months. ^[4]

Takeaway: A vet diagnosis is always the right first step. Natural supplements like Pet NMN can work as an additional layer of support alongside what your vet recommends. 

How long before you see a difference

This isn't an overnight fix, and it shouldn't be. 

Changes in a senior dog's mobility and energy build gradually, usually over several weeks of consistent daily use.

Most owners who see results describe it in the same way: slow at first, then a moment where they realize their dog is doing something they hadn't done in months.

The bottom line

Watching your dog struggle is hard. But there's a lot you can do once you know what to look for.

Start by paying attention to the small changes. A hesitation at the stairs. A little less enthusiasm on walks. 

Get a vet diagnosis. Then think about what layers of support make sense for your dog's specific situation.

Frequently asked questions

At what age should I start watching for arthritis in my dog?

• Technically, it can show up in dogs over one year old, though it's most common after age seven or eight. 

• The earlier you catch it, the more you can do about it.

Can I give my dog supplements without a vet visit?

• You can, but it's worth getting a diagnosis first. 

• Knowing what you're dealing with helps you choose the right kind of support and make sure you're not missing something else that needs treatment.

How do I know if my dog is in pain?

• Watch for behavioral changes: grumpiness when touched, losing interest in things they used to love, sleeping more, or avoiding movement. 

• Any of these are worth mentioning to your vet.

Is Pet NMN safe to use alongside medications my dog is already on?

• If your dog is on any prescription medications, check with your vet before adding a new supplement. 

• Pet NMN for example is a natural, GMP-certified product, but your vet is the best person to confirm it's appropriate for your dog's specific situation.

References

[1]. Arthritis in dogs — VCA Animal Hospitals. Confirms osteoarthritis prevalence of at least 20% in dogs over one year old and 80% in dogs over eight years old.

[2]. Recognizing pain in dogs — Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Confirms behavioral signs including withdrawal and uncharacteristic irritability as indicators of chronic pain in dogs.

[3]. Understanding canine arthritis — MSPCA-Angell. Confirms additional physical signs including joint swelling, crepitus, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and exercise intolerance.

[4]. NAD+ precursor supplementation in senior dogs — National Library of Medicine. Randomized controlled trial showing a senolytic and NAD+ precursor combination significantly improved owner-assessed cognitive function in senior dogs over six months.

Disclaimer: This content is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.