Hi fellow animal lover,

Watching your senior dog slow down can be tough. Maybe they hesitate before jumping on the couch, struggle to stand up after a nap, or take shorter, stiffer steps on walks.

Arthritis and muscle loss are common in aging dogs, but that doesn’t mean they have to live in discomfort!

Signs of Arthritis & Muscle Loss in Dogs

• Stiffness or hesitation when getting up, jumping, or using stairs
• Slower walks or stopping sooner than usual
• Shaky legs or difficulty maintaining balance
• More time sleeping or avoiding activity
• Licking or chewing at joints (a sign of pain!)

The good news? There are plenty of simple ways to help your senior dog stay mobile and comfortable at home! We've got some ideas for you below.

Fun Fact

Did you know that a senior dog’s sense of smell stays sharp well into their golden years? Even if their eyesight or hearing fades, their noses are still powerful.

You can use various dog-safe scents in different rooms to help blind dogs know where they are. Or play some nose work games at home for mental enrichment.

Pain Management & Joint Support

Arthritis pain can make movement uncomfortable, so supporting their joints is key.

Consider using:

✔️ Joint supplements with glucosamine & chondroitin. Check out our vet's top recommendations on joint supplements and diets here.

✔️ Anti-inflammatory medications (prescribed by your vet). Never give your dog human pain medications without express permission and directions from your veterinarian!

✔️ Alternative therapies like massage, acupuncture, or laser therapy

✔️ Orthopedic dog beds to relieve pressure on joints

✔️ Non-slip rugs and ramps to reduce strain on joints indoors or when getting in and out of the car

 ✔️ Grippy socks or boots to make it easier for your dog to find grip as they walk around

Find More In-Depth Senior Dog Mobility Tips

Coming up next week: We’ll be talking about senior dog nutrition—what changes as they age and how to make sure they're eating the best food for their needs.

To keep up with our latest, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.