The Top 12 Signs Your Dog May Have Joint Pain (And What To Do About It)

Joint pain in dogs is far more common than most pet parents realize. Research shows that 20% of dogs over age 1 already have early signs of joint pain, and 80% of senior dogs suffer from arthritis. (Source: American College of Veterinary Surgeons). Catching the signs early can dramatically improve your dog’s comfort, mobility, and long-term health.

Here are the top 12 signs of joint pain, what they mean, and what you can do to help your dog feel better.

1. Slowing Down or Moving Less

If your dog used to run to the door or bounce during walks but now moves slower, joint discomfort could be the culprit.

2. Trouble Getting Up After Resting

Stiffness after naps is one of the earliest signs of joint degeneration or inflammation.

3. Avoiding Stairs or Jumping

Dogs instinctively avoid movements that cause pain, like jumping out of the car or off of the couch.

4. Limping or Favoring a Leg

This often shows up after exercise or long walks. Early intervention is key to preventing worsening damage.

5. Difficulty Sitting or Lying Down

If your dog circles excessively or looks uncomfortable when lowering into a resting position, their joints may be hurting.

6. Excessive Licking of Joints

Many dogs lick painful joints as an instinctive form of self-soothing.

7. Back Leg Weakness

This is common in aging dogs and can indicate hip, knee, or spinal issues.

8. Irritability or Behavior Changes

Pain affects mood. If your dog growls when touched or becomes withdrawn, take note.

9. Muscle Loss

Reduced activity leads to muscle decline, especially in the hind legs.

10. Bunny-Hopping When Running

Dogs with hip pain often move both back legs together to avoid painful movement.

11. Decreased Interest in Play

A once-playful dog losing enthusiasm often signals discomfort rather than laziness.

12. Weight Gain

Reduced movement leads to weight gain which then worsens joint issues.

What You Can Do To Help Your Dog

✔ 1. Start a High-Quality Joint Supplement Early

A daily joint supplement can support healthy cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

Mush Buddies Joint & Mobility Chews include:

• Functional mushrooms (Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Maitake)

• Turmeric & MSM

• Glucosamine & Chondroitin

• 16 total active ingredients for all-around mobility support

✔ 2. Keep Your Dog at a Healthy Weight

Every extra pound adds strain to the joints.

✔ 3. Add Low-Impact Exercise

Swimming, controlled walks, and gentle play all help maintain mobility.

✔ 4. Provide Soft Bedding

Arthritic dogs struggle on hard floors.

✔ 5. Warm Their Muscles Before Exercise

A gentle walk first prevents stiffness.

✔ 6. Regular Vet Checkups

X-rays or evaluations help you understand what’s happening internally.

When to See a Vet

If your dog exhibits 3 or more signs consistently, schedule a professional evaluation. Early action = better long-term outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Joint pain doesn’t have to define your dog’s life. With early detection, the right daily support, and natural ingredients like functional mushrooms, you can help your dog move comfortably for years to come.

👉 Try Mush Buddies Joint & Mobility Chews — made with human-grade ingredients and functional mushrooms for whole-body wellness.