The Hidden Signs of Joint Pain in Senior Dogs (and What to Do About Them)

Our dogs can’t always tell us when something hurts. Instead, they whisper it in the way they move, stretch or hesitate before doing something that used to be second nature. Joint pain is one of the most common age-related issues in senior dogs, but it often flies under the radar until it becomes serious.

Whether you’ve noticed subtle changes in your pup’s routine or just want to stay ahead of the curve, learning to spot the signs of joint discomfort can make a world of difference. The earlier you act, the more you can do to keep your dog moving, tail wagging and feeling their best.

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Why Joint Pain Is So Common in Older Dogs

As dogs age, the cartilage that cushions their joints starts to wear down. That loss leads to inflammation, stiffness and reduced mobility—especially in weight-bearing joints like hips, knees and elbows. Over time, this can lead to arthritis or other chronic conditions.

Large breeds, active dogs or those with past injuries are often at higher risk, but joint issues can affect pups of all shapes and sizes. The challenge is that dogs are masters at masking pain. So while your dog may not limp dramatically, they might be telling you something through quieter signs.

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Subtle Signs Your Dog Might Be in Pain

Joint pain doesn’t always look like limping. It can show up in unexpected ways that are easy to overlook or dismiss as “just getting older.” Keep an eye out for these sneaky red flags:

1. Slowing Down on Walks

Your dog may still want to go for walks but might lag behind or stop more often. They might also resist walking on uneven ground or hills.

2. Hesitating Before Jumping or Climbing

If your dog used to jump onto the couch or climb stairs without a second thought and now stops to think (or refuses altogether), joint pain might be holding them back.

3. Stiffness After Rest

Watch how your dog moves after naps or overnight sleep. A stiff, awkward gait that improves with movement is a common sign of arthritis.

4. Change in Posture or Movement

Dogs with joint pain may arch their backs, favor one leg or shift their weight to avoid pressure on a sore spot.

5. Irritability or Withdrawal

Pain can make even the gentlest dogs a little cranky. If your pup shies away from touch, avoids play or seems out of sorts, joint discomfort may be to blame.

6. Licking or Chewing at Specific Joints

Repeated licking, chewing or biting at the same leg or paw may be your dog’s way of soothing an achy joint.

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What You Can Do to Help

If you notice any of the signs above, don’t panic. There’s a lot you can do to support your dog and ease their discomfort. A few thoughtful changes at home and regular communication with your vet can go a long way.

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1. Talk to Your Vet

Start with a checkup. Your vet can assess your dog’s joints, rule out more serious issues and recommend a plan tailored to their age, size and activity level. They may suggest:

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Joint supplements

• X-rays or mobility assessments

Never guess when it comes to pain relief. A vet-approved plan keeps your dog safe and comfortable.

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2. Add Gentle Supportive Gear

Mobility aids can make daily life much easier—and safer—for dogs with joint pain.

Try Steady Paws products like:

• Anti-Slip Dog Socks: These help your dog grip smooth surfaces, which reduces the strain on their joints during movement.

• Paw Grips: For pups who prefer to go barefoot, these stick-on grips give similar traction without covering the whole paw.

• Anti-Slip Stair Treads: If stairs are part of your dog’s life, these treads prevent slips and reduce the impact on their legs.

These small additions to your home can prevent falls, boost your dog’s confidence and ease joint stress.

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3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Extra weight means extra pressure on already tender joints. One of the most important things you can do is help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Support their health by:

• Measuring food instead of free-feeding

• Choosing low-impact treats

• Sticking to a feeding routine

Weight loss, even just a few pounds, can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain.

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4. Adjust Exercise Routines

Movement keeps joints lubricated, but too much of the wrong type of activity can cause more harm than good.

Try this approach:

• Opt for shorter, more frequent walks

• Stick to flat, soft surfaces like grass

• Let your dog set the pace

Swimming, slow walks and gentle play sessions are great ways to stay active without overdoing it.

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5. Create a Joint-Friendly Home

A few quick changes around the house can make life easier for your senior dog.

Simple ideas include:

• Adding ramps or low steps to favorite furniture

• Switching to an orthopedic dog bed with memory foam

• Using raised food and water bowls to reduce neck and back strain

• Keeping nails trimmed and paw pads clean for better traction

All these changes work together to support sore joints and reduce the chance of injury.

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6. Consider Supplements

Many dogs benefit from daily joint supplements. Look for ones with ingredients like:

• Glucosamine

• Chondroitin

• MSM

• Omega-3 fatty acids

Always check with your vet before starting a supplement, and be patient—it can take a few weeks to notice a difference.

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Your Dog’s Comfort Matters

Aging may be natural, but discomfort doesn’t have to be. With a little extra care and attention, you can give your senior dog more good days, more tail wags and a better quality of life.

At Steady Paws, we’re all about making those daily moments safer and more comfortable. From socks to stair treads, our anti-slip gear is designed to meet senior dogs where they are—steadying their steps and supporting their spirit.

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