If your dog is incessantly licking their legs, they may be trying to self-heal their own pain. “Licking of the legs can be a sign of arthritis or other sources of pain. Although they have a hard time distinguishing acute or new pain from chronic pain, dogs are inclined to try and heal the area by literally licking their wounds,” says Dr Robinson. According to PetMD, arthritis in dogs can come on slowly, starting with soreness and discomfort that dogs try to hide. You may not notice your dog’s discomfort until the pain has become hard for her to handle. If you suspect that your ageing pet is becoming arthritic, talk to your vet. “Your veterinarian may offer to run blood work and take radiographs of the areas your dog is focusing on, and can recommend a treatment plan to help keep your pet as comfortable as possible while they age,” says Dr Robinson. Supplements, such as glucosamine, may also help with inflammation and stiffness, but will not cure arthritis in dogs.