Aging and Arthritic Dogs

Woman smiling with her dog on a grass field surrounded by yoga props.

Supporting Strength, Comfort, and Independence as Dogs Age

As dogs age, it is common to see stiffness, weakness, changes in balance, and decreased activity levels. Conditions like arthritis in dogs and other degenerative issues can gradually diminish mobility and overall quality of life if not addressed proactively. Holistic Pet PT specializes in physical therapy for dogs, helping senior dog care by maintaining their strength, stability, and confidence. This support enables them to move more comfortably and remain engaged in their daily lives.

Common Challenges in Senior Dogs

Arthritis in dogs and degenerative joint disease can lead to difficulty rising, walking, or using stairs. This condition often results in decreased endurance and strength, as well as changes in balance and coordination. Owners should be aware of muscle loss and joint stiffness, especially in senior dog care, and consider physical therapy for dogs to help manage these symptoms.

How Physical Therapy Supports Aging Dogs

Improves joint mobility and flexibility, which is crucial for managing arthritis in dogs. Builds strength to support arthritic joints, enhancing balance and coordination. This physical therapy for dogs reduces pain and stiffness, slows functional decline, and ultimately improves the overall quality of life for your pet. Our programs focus on safe, low-impact strengthening and mobility, tailored to your senior dog care needs and your dog’s comfort level.

Our Approach

Thorough movement and functional evaluation are essential in managing arthritis in dogs. We offer gentle, progressive exercise programs as part of our physical therapy for dogs, along with hands-on therapy to improve comfort. When appropriate, we utilize pain-modulating modalities to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, we provide education for owners on home support and activity modification, which is crucial for senior dog care. The goal is not just comfort — it is maintaining independence for as long as possible.

When to Start

Physical therapy for dogs can benefit them long before their mobility is severely limited. Research indicates that early signs of arthritis in dogs and degenerative joint changes can begin as early as 4–6 years of age, especially in active, large-breed, or working dogs. These changes often develop gradually, first manifesting as subtle stiffness, reduced endurance, or slower movement instead of obvious limping.

Starting physical therapy early is crucial in maintaining strength, supporting joint health, and slowing the progression of arthritis — which leads to improved long-term mobility, comfort, and quality of life as dogs age, particularly in senior dog care.