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My senior dog is stiff, slow, and mopey. Is it arthritis or pain?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shiba Inu | Female | spayed | 10 years and 11 months old | 18 lbs

My female Shiba Inu who is turning 11 in August has been mopey and sleeping under the bed for the last few days. She seems stiff and slow. Could this be arthritis? or possibly an emotional reaction to something? She is eating/drinking and pottying normal. She is usually happy and playful and cuddly.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 17th, 2017

Poor Sugar! She could have arthritis, a problem with an inter-vertebral disc in her neck or back causing her some pain, an infection, etc. If she is reluctant to jump on things and/or go up steps then it is probably a disc problem and she is experiencing some discomfort. The best thing would be to have your vet take a look at her to determine the cause and treat, She may need an anti-inflammatory and pain medications to help. Hope she feels better soon!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS
Veterinarian
I would definitely take her into the vet for an exam. Dogs are very stoic so this could be her way of dealing with pain. The vet can feel for stiffness and i would advise a blood panel to check her organ function.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on February 17th, 2019
If this has been ongoing for a month then it would be best to seek out an appointment with your vet. Your vet can take an X-ray of the area to look for issues such as torn ligaments, joint problems, bone issues, etc that could be causing the hip or leg to be sore. Issues such as arthritis may also cause sore joints or hips. Depending on the cause, your vet may be able to recommend medications such as joint and pain supplements to help Belle feel better along with changes in exercise routine.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on November 3rd, 2016
These symptoms are consistent with hip dysplasia i'm afraid, your vet is probably right about it. In some cases, if the condition is not extreme, pain killers/anti inflammatories can help long term. Bear in mind Bossco is not young and hip dysplasia at this age sometimes does not get better with medications. Stroke is not really an option, it's rare in dogs and symptoms are different than what you are describing.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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