5 Ways to Know If Your Dog Has Knee Pain

Your dog can have knee pain without you knowing. Since they cannot communicate as human beings do, it is ideal to know the signs that show they are experiencing discomfort. Technically, their knee or stifle joint is usually on their rear legs. 

Different sizes, ages, and breeds of dogs experience knee pain in their lifetimes. Knee problems are the top common health-related problems and dog injuries. 

Some dog breeds have a high risk of knee problems as hereditary or genetic problems. Your dog can experience knee pain due to various reasons. They can dislocate their kneecap or get CCL tears from being naturally athletic. Your dog can also get osteoarthritis that may cause worsening inflammation in their knee joints. 

Changes in Mobility

A dog in pain will struggle to move around. They may find it hard to get up or down and often do it slowly. Your dog may also avoid going up the stairs, and when they do, they will move slowly. You will also notice limping to indicate one of their limbs has a problem.

Your dog may also show reluctance to jump on couches, beds, or your car as they usually would. They may also be reluctant to go on their usual walks, and if they do, they will not manage to cover the whole distance.

Shifting Support From Their Hind Legs

Your dog may also show the closed leg stance where they put their back legs together while standing. Doing this allows them to shift weight from their back legs to their front end.

There is also the wide front legs stance where your dog will push their elbows out to the sides. Doing so gives them a wide bearing at their front to compensate and shift their weight to their front legs. You may only see this from one side as it is usually subtle.

Changes in Energy Levels

Your dog may have a reduced energy level due to knee pain. You may notice that they sleep more than they usually do. They may also be very reluctant to get out of bed and spend longer hours sleeping in the morning. Be sensitive about this, as it can be subtle at times. Your dog may also reduce jumping or running like usual.

Changes in Behavior

Knee pain can lead to your dog experiencing emotional changes. You may notice aggression and uncharacteristic detachment. They may also yelp if you touch the affected leg. You should be able to see these changes, especially if your dog is usually outgoing and friendly.

The pain can cause them to be aggressive as if they are asking for help. They may become antisocial and begin hiding due to their discomfort. You ought to get concerned if you notice such changes and if they last a long time.

Grooming Excessively

You may notice your dog often licking the joint of the affected knee excessively. If in pain, they may do this often to soothe their discomfort. Saliva stain can change the fur color where they excessively groom.  

For more about knee pain in dogs, visit Liberty Animal Clinic at our office in Hinesville, Georgia. You can also call (912) 368-4080 to book an appointment today.