Check these 6 things to see if your dog might have pain in their joints
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MY DOG IS MOVING STIFFLY OR HAS A DECREASED RANGE OF MOTION
Your dog might be stiff when he/she gets up if he/she is having joint discomfort and, as a result, is also likely showing a decreased range of motion.
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MY DOG IS STRUGGLING TO SIT AND/OR TURNS IN CIRCLES SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE SITTING DOWN
You might notice that your dog is taking longer to sit or lay down than normal, as joint issues can make it difficult to bend and move into a sitting position without causing additional discomfort. For example, is your dog struggling to sit and is turning in circles multiple times before sitting?
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MY DOG HAS BECOME LESS ACTIVE AND HAS STARTED TO AVOID PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
You may have noticed your dog has slowed down or has become reluctant to jump, run, or climb stairs. The limited activity can be hard to notice at times due to your dog’s age, as he/she will naturally have less energy than he/she did as a puppy.
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MY DOG HAS DEVELOPED A LIMP
Dogs can develop a limp due to joint discomfort in an attempt to avoid putting pressure on the area that is bothering them.
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MY DOG CRIES OUT, GROWLS, OR FLINCHES WHEN A SPECIFIC AREA IS TOUCHED
Dogs might yelp or cry when they move in a way that hurts their joints. They will also tend to lick or chew at the area and flinch if you touch it. Sometimes, even a sweet-natured dog will growl or snap at his/her owner, so be cautious touching your dog in the area where you suspect the discomfort is.
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MY DOG IS SEEKING SOFTER SURFACES TO SLEEP ON
You may have noticed your dog, that used to stretch out on the hard floor, is now looking for carpeting, blankets, and pillows to lie down on. Lying on a hard surface can put pressure on areas of discomfort and thus why your pet may be seeking softer surfaces.
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