Why do we have a massive door mat at the bottom of our stairs, over our lino?
Over time, dogs can experience micro-injuries to joints that can progress in to longer term joint issues. My dog goes up and down our stairs, and to prevent slipping at the bottom (he is a bit top heavy so those front legs take a lot of weight if he slips), he has a non-slip mat. This is to try and safeguard joint health as a preventative step. These can also be placed on other slippery floored areas around the home.
Joint issues like arthritis can come on in dogs of any age (I have worked with behavioural clients who have had pain factors to their behaviour, that have been under a year of age!) but is more common in senior dogs. A dog experiencing chronic pain will still run, play, eat, go for their walks, and may not limp or whine. One of the first signs of chronic pain is subtle changes to behaviour, and this is one of the first things I consider in behavioural assessments. Common behavioural signs relating to pain and discomfort are:
Lowered tolerance (around other dogs, other people), or presenting as anxious or fearful in certain contexts
Hesitation to jump on to furniture or in to the car (might still do it – but will hesitate)
Some slowing down on walks (may still go for a walk and show an interest in running about)
Panting when they aren’t hot
Lethargy or ‘quietness’
Struggling with physical touch in some or all areas
Increased sensitivity to sounds
Changes to gait, posture, movement, or resting positions
Other changes in behaviour (any changes in behaviour, or new/worsening behaviours, always warrant a vet check)
Taking steps like this one can help to hopefully prevent injuries that can contribute to joint issues, and will also help make life more comfortable for dogs who do already have joint pain.
I recommend visiting the Canine Arthritis Management page to learn more about proactive steps you can take to help prevent joint issues, or to support dogs who have them already.
Sally Lewis 2023
Know Your Dog 