10 top ways to help your dog with arthritis at home

If your dog is struggling with arthritis, or you’ve recently been told that they have the condition, you’ll be asking yourself what you can do to help them be more comfortable. 

Your vet may have prescribed pain relief, but there’s also a lot you can do at home to support your dog’s comfort, mobility, and general wellbeing.

While the condition is progressive, it can be managed so your dog retains comfort and a good quality of life. So let's explore some simple things you can do to help.

Here are 10 tips for helping your arthritic dog at home:

1. Help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Carrying extra weight puts additional strain on already sore joints - and can make inflammation worse. Even a small weight loss can make a noticeable difference to how your dog moves and feels.

Work with your vet to find the right diet and portion sizes, and don’t be afraid to ask for help managing it.

2. Provide a comfortable sleeping area.

Soft, orthopaedic beds that cushion pressure points can reduce discomfort while your dog rests. Place the bed somewhere warm and quiet - away from draughts or cold floors. Dogs with arthritis often feel stiffer after sleeping, so warmth really helps.

3. Modify exercise routines.

Movement is still important, it helps keep joints mobile and muscles strong. But it needs to be low impact because high-impact activities can exacerbate joint pain. Shorter, more frequent walks on soft surfaces (like grass) are ideal. Avoid long or high-intensity outings, especially on hard ground. Swimming can also be brilliant if your dog enjoys it.

4. Use non-slip surfaces.

Slippery floors (like wood or laminate) are tough on arthritic dogs, especially when getting up, turning, or moving quickly. Place non-slip mats, yoga mats, or rugs in key areas, like near food bowls, beds, or stairs, to help your dog move around more confidently and reduce the risk of injury.

5. Work with a canine physiotherapist .

A canine physio can teach you exercises you can do at home to improve your dog's range of motion and strength. These might include gentle stretches, supported weight shifts, or wobble cushion work. Ask your vet for a referral or recommendation.

6. Apply warm compresses

Gentle heat can help soothe aching joints. Use a warm (not hot) compress on affected areas for 10-15 minutes at a time. It can help ease stiffness and soothe discomfort, you could try a microwaveable heat pad wrapped in a towel - always test the temperature on your wrist first.

7. Gentle massage

Learn how to perform gentle massage on your dog to improve circulation, reduce tension, and provide comfort. Start with light, circular movements over muscle areas (not directly on joints). Your vet or physio can show you how.

8. Elevate food and water bowls

Elevating bowls means your dog doesn’t have to strain their neck, shoulders or elbows to eat and drink - which can make mealtimes more comfortable. You can buy purpose-made bowl stands, or use a stable box or step.

9. Assist with grooming

Arthritic dogs often struggle to groom themselves. Keep their coat clean and knot-free with regular, gentle brushing. Trim nails as needed (or have a groomer help), as long nails can affect how they walk and stand.

10. Create a stress-free environment

Minimise stress in your dog's life, as anxiety can exacerbate pain. Maintain a calm, predictable routine and provide a quiet space for rest. The more relaxed you can help your dog to feel, the better.

Early intervention is key to helping manage your dog and their arthritis in the long term.  Managing arthritis isn’t just about medication, it’s about the little things you do every day to help your dog stay comfortable, mobile, and happy. Employing the right techniques can slow the progression of arthritis and give your dog a longer happier healthier life.

What about joint supplements?

Zooomy (formerly known as CaniFlow), is a fast-acting, easy to give joint supplement for dogs containing long chain hyaluronic acid. It can help maintain your dog’s joint health. It’s designed by vets to support joint health from the inside out, with a tasteless liquid formula that’s easy to give.

Hyaluronic acid is nature’s magic ingredient that ensures joint fluid nourishes cartilage, absorbs shocks and lubricates joint surfaces. Arthritic, inflamed joints often have lower concentrations of hyaluronic acid, leading to increased friction and discomfort.  Giving Zooomy can help replenish these levels and contribute to longer term joint health and mobility.

Sign up to our newsletter for 20% off your first order!