Could YOU spot the subtle signs of mobility problems in your dog?
Most dog owners believe they would recognise if their pet was in pain - but local vets say many owners may be missing the subtle signs, especially when it comes to mobility issues.
New analysis of national veterinary records show that nearly 9% of senior dogs have mobility problems[i], but some vets believe the real number may be far higher because some cases may go unnoticed for months or even years.
Vets at Johnston Veterinary Clinic on 73 Northampton Road in Wellingborough are warning that dogs aged over seven years and cats aged over eight years often suffer quietly with stiffness, joint pain and age‑related mobility changes that owners may not see. The reason? Pets don’t limp, whine or cry until their pain is severe. Instead, they change their behaviour - subtly.
Sonia O'Hara, Senior Practice Director, at Johnston Veterinary Clinic says: “Mobility issues creep in slowly and often owners just think their pet is ‘slowing down with age’. But in many cases, that pet may be uncomfortable. If your dog is sleeping more, licking its joints or seeming withdrawn, it may mot be old age – it could be a red flag.”
The behaviour changes owners may easily miss
According to Sonia O'Hara, the top ten most common signs of mobility pain include:
Licking or chewing at joints
Becoming quieter, grumpier or reactive
Sleeping more than usual
Seeming “withdrawn”
Slowing down on walks
Struggling to settle comfortably
Hesitating or refusing to climb stairs
Getting up stiffly
Reluctance to go for walks
Taking longer to lie down or stand up
“If a human felt this level of discomfort, they’d say something. But unfortunately our pets can’t. We want owners to trust their instincts. So, if your pet’s behaviour has changed, it could be their way of saying they’re not feeling their best,” adds Sonia O'Hara. “Supporting older cats and dogs with mobility issues doesn’t have to be costly or complicated - often, small, inexpensive changes around the home can make a huge difference to their comfort, independence and quality of life. Our vets and nurses are here to help advise owners on what to do.”
Johnston Veterinary Clinic is running a Geriatric Pets Awareness Campaign to help owners understand the subtle signs their ageing pets may be giving them every day. In addition to Mobility Issues, the awareness campaign will circulate information on Dental Disease and Lumps & Bumps which are also common in older pets – affecting 13% and 10% of senior dogs respectively. Dental issues aren’t just cosmetic; smelly breath, red gums, tartar and slow eating can all indicate painful disease. And while many lumps are harmless, some need urgent attention - especially if they grow quickly, bleed, feel firm or cause discomfort.
Owners who have noticed signs of mobility issues, dental disease or worrying lumps are encouraged to contact the practice via www.cvsvets.com to seek advice.
[i] CVS Vets data 2025-26