Could my dog's chewing and pain be arthritis from an old head injury?

Question

My Miniature Pinscher was hit by a car a couple years ago. He's been to a vet and they said everything looked fine. I didn't take him so couldn't mention problems I've noticed. We think he was hit in the head. He has occasional problems chewing and seems grumpy and very needy, especially on cold or rainy days, making me think he might be in pain. Could he have arthritis of some sort? Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Pinscher | Male | neutered | 4 years and 11 months old | 10 lbs

Catherine Stecyk · Accepted Answer

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear that Squeaker was hit by a car in the past. The clinical signs you are describing could be due to some boney arthritic changes to part of his jaw if he was hit in the head. Similarly to people, we can see dogs seem more painful when the weather is bad. It is also possible though that his clinical signs are unrelated to his previous injury, and could reflect a new problem that has arisen. If he has problems chewing, he may have dental disease or painful teeth. If he continues to not act himself or has a decreased appetite for longer than a day or so, I recommend having him evaluated by your veterinarian. He/she can perform a physical and oral exam, and may recommend bloodwork to look for any underlying systemic illness that may explain his clinical signs. Please do not give any pain medications to Squeaker that are intended for humans, as these can be fatally toxic to dogs. I hope this is helpful - best of luck with Squeaker! Love his name :)

Could my dog's chewing and pain be arthritis from an old head injury?

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