Because OA can range from mild to severe and because even affected dogs may behave in a largely normal way, the resulting pain can be difficult to identify. Typically, the symptoms to watch for include:

• Reluctance to walk, run, climb stairs, jump, or play
• Difficulty in rising from a resting position
• Lameness
• Stiffness
• Yelping or whimpering
• Soreness when touched
• Excessive licking of a joint or leg
• Lagging behind on walks
• Avoiding activities they used to enjoy
• Change in eating habits
• Behavioral changes: withdrawal or aggressive behavior