Does your dog limp after a walk, struggle to get up after a nap, or hesitate before jumping onto the sofa? These changes might seem like a normal part of growing older, but they can sometimes point to an underlying joint problem.
Conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis can affect a dog's ability to move comfortably. While some joint problems are influenced by genetics and cannot be entirely prevented, the right everyday care can help support mobility and reduce avoidable strain.
Here's what every pet parent should know.
Why Dogs Develop Hip and Joint Problems
Joint problems don't happen only to senior dogs. They can develop at different stages of life for different reasons.
- Hip/knee dysplasia
- Ageing and arthritis
- Excess weight and injuries
Although you can't prevent every joint condition, you can make choices that help protect your dog's mobility throughout their life.
6 Everyday Ways to Support Your Dog's Joint Health
1. Keep Your Dog at a Healthy Weight
Extra weight puts additional pressure on the hips, knees, and other weight-bearing joints. Over time, this can make movement more difficult and worsen existing joint problems.
Measure your dog's food portions, account for treats, and choose a balanced diet suitable for their age and size. If your dog needs to lose weight, ask your vet to help you establish a safe plan.
2. Make Slippery Floors Safer
Marble, granite, and polished tiles can make it difficult for dogs to maintain their grip, particularly when turning, running, or getting up.
Place non-slip mats near their bed, food bowls, and favourite resting spots. Keeping their nails trimmed can also help with traction.
These small changes are especially useful for puppies still developing coordination and dogs already experiencing mobility issues.
3. Choose the Right Kind of Exercise
Regular movement helps maintain muscle strength, which supports the joints. However, pushing your dog into intense exercise too quickly can cause problems.
Aim for consistent, age-appropriate walks, gradually increase activity, and allow enough time to rest. Sniffing walks and gentle play can provide movement without turning every outing into a strenuous workout.
For dogs with existing joint conditions, your vet can recommend suitable activities and exercise limits.
4. Consider Alternative Supportive Care
Alongside everyday exercise and weight management, certain supportive therapies may help dogs with mobility problems.
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Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
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Hydrotherapy
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Massage
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Home adjustments
These approaches aren't suitable for every dog or every condition. Consult your vet before starting therapy, particularly if your dog is in pain or has recently suffered an injury.
5. Support Healthy Growth and Nutrition
Puppies need balanced nutrition for healthy bone, muscle, and joint development. For large breeds, excess calories or imbalanced calcium levels can affect skeletal growth.
For adult dogs, a complete, balanced diet helps maintain mobility. Ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, collagen, and green-lipped mussel are commonly found in joint supplements.
Absolut Pet’s Hip & Joint Chews provide these ingredients as part of a daily nutritional support routine. Consult your vet to determine if they’re suitable for your dog.
6. Don't Ignore Changes in How Your Dog Moves
Dogs don't always show discomfort clearly. Sometimes, the first signs are small changes in their daily behaviour.
Look out for:
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Stiffness after resting.
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Limping or putting less weight on one leg.
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Hesitation before jumping or climbing stairs.
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Difficulty getting up or lying down.
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Less interest in walks, play, or other favourite activities.
These signs can have several causes, so don't assume your dog is simply getting old.
If you notice persistent changes, arrange a veterinary examination. Sudden severe pain, an inability to stand, or an inability to put weight on a leg requires urgent veterinary attention.
The Best Time to Care for Your Dog's Joints Is Now
Healthy joints depend on more than age or genetics. Your dog's weight, exercise routine, nutrition, home environment, and access to appropriate veterinary care all play a role.
You may not be able to prevent hip dysplasia or every form of arthritis, but you can help reduce avoidable strain and support comfortable movement throughout your dog's life.
Pay attention to the little changes, make everyday movement safer, and seek help when something doesn't seem right. Because helping your dog stay active isn't just about adding years to their life, it's about helping them enjoy those years comfortably.