Symptoms of Arthrits Difficulty getting up and down. Walking stiffly. Lameness in one or more legs. Reluctance to go up and down steps. Reluctance to jump up or down (onto/off furniture or into/out of a vehicle) Reluctance to be touched on some parts of the body. Symptoms of Joint Pain in Dogs Lethargy. Limping and stiffness. Loss of Appetite. Irritability. Depression. Frequent slipping while moving about. Licking, chewing or biting the affected area. Certain large breed dogs are more prone to arthritis and decreased mobility. Those dog breeds include Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, German shepherds and Rottweilers. Excess weight on your dog means excess stress on the joints and cartilage, which can lead to arthritis and joint health problems.