10/29/2026
🐾 A healthy dog is about so much more than a healthy puppy.
As breeders, we put a tremendous amount of thought into genetics, health testing, nutrition, structure, temperament, and giving our puppies the healthiest start we can.
But good care doesn’t stop when they leave us. 🤎
One of the most important things we can do throughout our dogs’ lives is learn to recognize when they may be uncomfortable—because pain doesn’t always look like pain.
Sometimes it looks like:
• Becoming quieter or more withdrawn
• Irritability or suddenly not wanting to be touched
• Anxiety or changes in sleep
• Hesitating before jumping or using stairs
• Sitting, standing, or lying differently
• A change in gait or posture
• Less enthusiasm for walks or play
• Simply seeming a little “off”
Veterinary pain researchers Dr. Margaret Gruen and Dr. Duncan Lascelles of NC State have been studying the connection between chronic pain, behavior, and emotional well-being—and one finding really stood out to me:
Pain and osteoarthritis aren’t only problems for old dogs.
In one study, 23% of dogs under four years old had osteoarthritis associated with pain.
That’s another reason we believe structure, appropriate exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, good nutrition, and paying attention to subtle changes matter throughout a dog’s entire life.
A few simple things we can do:
🐾 Take videos if you notice changes in movement or behavior.
🐾 Don’t automatically assume slowing down is “just getting older.”
🐾 Keep dogs moving appropriately rather than unnecessarily restricting activity.
🐾 Talk with your veterinarian when something changes.
🐾 When considering joint support, look at the actual EPA + DHA content of an omega-3 supplement—not simply the words “omega-3” on the bottle.
And remember—pain isn’t always orthopedic. Dental problems, chronic ear infections, skin conditions, and gastrointestinal issues can also cause discomfort that shows up as behavioral changes.
You know your dog better than anyone.
Sometimes the smallest change is their way of telling you, “Something doesn’t feel right.” 🤎
For us, responsible breeding is only the beginning. Our hope is always to help our Fleury Farm families raise dogs who are not only healthy as puppies, but healthy, comfortable, happy companions for years to come.
— Fleury Farm Doodles 🐾
➡️Information adapted from research and insights shared by Dr. Margaret Gruen and Dr. Duncan Lascelles of NC State and discussed by Rodney Habib & Dr. Karen Becker.
✅ Check out Dr. Becker & Rodney Habib’s INSIDE SCOOP for your pet’s health!
www.insidescoop.pet
