Dogs are incredibly good at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness would make them vulnerable, so even our beloved pets tend to mask discomfort. 

This means that by the time a dog is obviously limping, the problem may have been there for some time. Learning to spot the early, subtle changes can help you act sooner and keep your dog happy and active for longer.

Some common signs owners notice include:

• Reluctance to jump into the car, onto furniture, or up steps.
• Stiffness after rest, especially when first getting up in the morning.
• Changes in gait, such as bunny-hopping with the back legs or shorter strides.
• Slowing down on walks, lagging, or sitting down more often.
• Shifts in posture, like sitting to one side, resting a paw, or standing with the back legs tucked underneath.

It’s easy to dismiss these behaviours as “just getting older,” but they’re often early indicators of discomfort in the joints, muscles, or spine. Left untreated, these issues can gradually worsen, reducing your dog’s quality of life.

This is where physiotherapy, laser therapy and hydrotherapy can make a real difference. By improving joint mobility, strengthening muscles, and reducing pain, we can help dogs move more comfortably and with greater confidence. For some, it means returning to their favourite activities, while for others it simply makes everyday life, from getting up to greet you to going for a gentle walk, much easier.

If you notice any of these changes in your dog, it’s always worth asking for advice. The earlier we address mobility issues, the better the outcome, and the happier your dog will be.

Viv R – BSc (Hons) MNAVP AHPR MCHA – Veterinary Physiotherapist