My 5-year-old dog is stiff and struggles to get up. What's wrong?

Question

5 yr old mixed spayed female normally strong healthy has difficulty getting up, slught stiffness observed over last 48 hrs. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 2 months old | 46 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Poor Princess! At five, she is middle aged, and this could be signs of arthritis. Arthritis is common in middle aged to older dogs. There could also be a problem with her hips or spine. I would take her into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose if she is suffering from arthritis, and can give her some pain meds for it. Rimadyl (an NSAID) is a good drug to give to help with the symptoms of arthritis. I also recommend giving her glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate supplements. They provide the necessary nutrients for cartilage repair and function. Use of them helps relieve some of the symptoms of arthritis, and you can use it in conjunction with Rimadyl to help maximize relief from her symptoms. Please do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

My 5-year-old dog is stiff and struggles to get up. What's wrong?

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