7 Proactive Tips To Help Prevent Mobility Loss in Dogs

Mobility loss is one of those things that creeps in quietly. One day your dog clears the stairs without a second thought, and somewhere down the line you notice a little hesitation before the jump, a slower lap around the yard, a harder time getting up after a nap. It’s easy to write off as “just getting old,” but a lot of what we blame on age can be slowed, softened, or held off entirely when you start the right habits early.

That’s exactly why we put this guide together. In most cases the best results come from a multi-modal approach, meaning you combine more than one tip from the list at the same time rather than leaning on a single fix. Layering a few of these together gives your dog the strongest protection and the best shot at staying active and comfortable well into their later years. Read on to discover our top 7 tips to help prevent mobility loss in dogs.

A high-quality, complete diet is essential to the health of any dog, especially those at risk of mobility issues. Dogs that develop joint issues are prone to muscle atrophy (muscle wastage), due to changes in the way they use their limbs. Ensuring your dog has enough protein to support muscle maintenance and repair will play a key role in keeping them strong and mobile.

Look for a diet that is suitable for your dog’s age, as this will have the right balance of nutrients. A good diet should also have a named animal protein source at the top of its ingredients list.

As well as the right diet, you need to make sure you are feeding the correct amount. Too much food (and table scraps or treats!) can lead to weight gain, which could have a negative effect on your dog’s joints and mobility, increasing wear and tear. Too little food could cause them to lose muscle mass, which will cause them to lose strength and be less able to exercise well. If your dog needs to lose some extra pounds, speak to your veterinary team for guidance on how to do this safely.

Studies have shown that joint supplements can have a positive impact on the mobility and comfort of pets with joint disease. These supplements should contain essential fatty acids such as omega-3, which are helpful natural anti-inflammatories, proven to relieve paid and support joint health.

Glucosamine and chondroitin, from ingredients like green-lipped muscle, are also thought a positive impact but more studies are needed on this. These may help with the growth and repair of cartilage within the joints. Cartilage provides a smooth gliding surface for the joint to be able to move without friction, so keeping it healthy is crucial for mobility. 

Joint supplements should be considered in any dog that is 7 years and over, regardless of whether they are showing signs of joint disease yet or not. You may need to consider starting them earlier in large or giant breeds, very active/working breeds, or dogs with diagnosed joint issues. It’s never too late to start, either. We’ve seen the right supplement routine help an aging dog move freely again after months of stiffness.

Exercise helps maintain muscle mass, so it is important for your dog to get regular physical activity. However, in dogs that are starting to show signs of joint disease, this must be carried out sensibly.

Regular moderate walks are much better for your pet than a few short walks in the week and a couple of very long ones at the weekend. This sort of pattern can leave some dogs stiff, sore, and uncomfortable for the following week ahead.

Excessive use of ball flingers, or exercise with lots of sharp twists and turns, can also have a negative impact on joint health and longer-term mobility, so be conscious of this, particularly in very young or older dogs. Plus, taking your dog on an enforced jog or hike is a very different prospect on their joints than an off-lead amble in the park or a field at their own pace.

So, make sure to try and get out with your pet every day for a gentle walk or two, depending on their health status. If you’re unsure, then always speak to your vet for advice.

For dogs that have had surgery, a traumatic injury, or that are starting to show signs of osteoarthritis, physical therapy or hydrotherapy can be very beneficial. Physiotherapy uses targeted exercises and massage to improve muscle mass and range of motion.

Hydrotherapy also involves specific exercises, but these are carried out in water, which provides some gentle resistance against movement, supports the animal’s bodyweight, and creates lower impact on diseased joints. By doing these controlled sessions, you may be able to help slow the progression of mobility loss. Speak to your vet or a qualified animal physiotherapist for advice.

Many owners report alternative or complementary therapies as helpful to their pet’s mobility. This includes things like acupuncture, laser therapy, and magnetic field therapy. It will depend on your dog’s temperament as to whether they tolerate these types of treatments, but they could prove to be helpful, alongside some of our other tips. Always discuss these treatments with your vet first to make sure they are suitable for your dog.

Mobility aids can help dogs that are struggling with certain movements, enabling them to get around and do some of their normal activities. A common example of this would be a ramp, used to help pets get up steps, onto the sofa, or into the back of a car.

This allows the dog to still move themselves rather than having to be lifted. Placing non-slip flooring or rugs down can also help some dogs maintain their mobility around the home better. Shiny floors can be hazardous to dogs with joint problems.

Occasionally, braces might be used, which can help to provide support to injured or stiff joints. These should be correctly fitted under the guidance of a vet to ensure they don’t rub your dog or cause any discomfort. Boots may also be helpful for older dogs that are dragging or scuffing their feet.

They can protect the paws from trauma and provide extra grip, helping them feel more confident as they move. Used in the right way, these aids could help slow down any further mobility loss and allow your pet to maintain a good quality of life for longer.

Last, but by no means least, are regular vet check-ups! Being proactive in your dog’s health care can help to spot problems earlier. Your vet will be able to diagnose any emerging mobility issues as well as suggest appropriate treatments. Vets can prescribe painkillers, which are perhaps one of the things that can have the biggest impact on a pet’s mobility.

Animals that are uncomfortable and not moving as normal will soon start to suffer from secondary issues, like muscle atrophy and weight gain. This will have a negative impact, leading to increasing levels of mobility loss. Ensuring your dog is kept comfortable will mean they are able to continue with moderate exercise and normal movements.

Your vet will also be able to advise you on other things such as exercise, diet, weight management, and joint mobility supplements.  

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