How to Help a Dog With Arthritis at Home (10 Changes to Reduce Pain) – Walkin’ Pets

Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting older dogs. It causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort that can limit your dog’s mobility and reduce their quality of life. Fortunately, there are several practical changes you can make at home to reduce your dog’s pain and help them stay active and comfortable.

On this page, we’ll cover 10 evidence-based changes you can make in your dog’s home environment and daily routine to support an arthritic dog. These methods are used by veterinarians, rehabilitation specialists, and pet parents who want to ease joint pain and help their dogs live more comfortably for longer.

Let’s explore what you can do today to make a real difference in your dog’s life.

1. Provide supportive bedding

Dogs with arthritis need to rest their joints on surfaces that offer both support and pressure relief. Standard pet beds often fall short.

Look for orthopedic dog beds made with high-density foam or memory foam. These beds help distribute your dog’s weight more evenly and reduce the pressure placed on sore joints. Avoid beds that are too soft or flimsy, as they can make it harder for your dog to get up and down.

Place the bed in a quiet, warm area of your home where your dog feels safe and comfortable. If your home has hard flooring, adding rugs or non-slip mats near the bed can also help prevent slips and falls.

2. Modify flooring to prevent slipping

Slippery floors, especially hardwood or tile, can be dangerous for dogs with arthritis. Every slip can strain already inflamed joints and lead to additional injuries.

To reduce the risk:

• Use area rugs or rubber-backed runners along common walking paths

• Place non-slip mats where your dog eats and drinks

• Use traction socks or booties for extra grip (if your dog tolerates wearing them)

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed also improves traction and helps with balance.

3. Use a lifting harness to support mobility

Dogs with arthritis often struggle with getting up, walking, or going up stairs. A lifting harness can give your dog the extra support they need.

Lift harnesses wrap around your dog’s chest and hindquarters, allowing you to gently help them stand, walk, or climb stairs without putting pressure on their painful joints. This also helps reduce your own strain when assisting your dog.

At Walkin’ Pets, we offer lifting harnesses designed specifically for dogs with limited strength or joint pain. They’re comfortable, adjustable, and easy to put on.

Learn more about lifting harnesses here: https://walkinpets.com/collections/walkin-lift-harnesses-slings

4. Adjust food and water bowl height

Bending down to eat or drink can be difficult for dogs with neck, shoulder, or spine stiffness caused by arthritis. Raising your dog’s food and water bowls to shoulder height reduces strain and improves posture while eating.

You can use a purpose-made raised feeder or simply place your dog’s bowls on a sturdy box or platform. Make sure the setup is stable and doesn’t wobble, as that can cause anxiety or discomfort.

5. Incorporate gentle daily exercise

Staying active is important, even for arthritic dogs. Exercise helps maintain muscle strength and keeps joints from getting stiffer. However, the activity needs to be gentle and consistent.

Start with short, slow walks on soft surfaces like grass. Avoid stairs, steep hills, and high-impact play like jumping or running. Swimming is another excellent low-impact option if your dog enjoys water and has access to a safe space for swimming.

Talk to your veterinarian or a canine rehab specialist about creating a safe exercise plan tailored to your dog’s abilities.

6. Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight puts extra pressure on already painful joints. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to manage arthritis symptoms.

If your dog is overweight, work with your vet to create a slow, safe weight-loss plan. This usually involves adjusting portion sizes and switching to a joint-supportive, calorie-conscious diet.

Many arthritic dogs improve significantly once they reach a healthier weight.

7. Use joint supplements recommended by your vet

Joint supplements can support cartilage health and reduce inflammation in arthritic dogs. These supplements don’t work overnight, but over time, they may help reduce pain and improve flexibility.

Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog and won’t interfere with other medications.

8. Introduce a dog wheelchair for improved mobility

For dogs with advanced arthritis who struggle to walk, a dog wheelchair can restore independence and quality of life. Mobility carts are especially helpful when the rear legs become too weak or painful to support body weight.

A properly fitted dog wheelchair can:

• Reduce pressure on inflamed joints

• Encourage safe movement and exercise

• Prevent further muscle loss

• Improve mental health by allowing your dog to explore and stay active

At Walkin’ Pets, we offer adjustable, veterinarian-approved dog wheelchairs that are designed for comfort, stability, and ease of use. They’re a safe and effective mobility solution for dogs living with arthritis or other mobility challenges.

Learn more about dog wheelchairs here: https://walkinpets.com/collections/adjustable-dog-wheelchairs

9. Create a pain-friendly home layout

Simple changes around your home can make a big difference in your dog’s daily comfort.

Make sure:

• Your dog doesn’t need to climb stairs to reach their food, water, or bed

• Their favorite resting spots are easy to access

• There are no high surfaces (like sofas or beds) they need to jump onto

You can use pet ramps or stairs if your dog still wants to access elevated areas safely. Choose models with good traction and sturdy build.

10. Maintain regular veterinary care and pain management

No home care plan is complete without regular check-ins from your veterinarian. Arthritis is a progressive condition, and your dog’s needs will change over time.

A vet can help manage your dog’s pain with prescription medications, laser therapy, physical therapy, or other options. Never give your dog human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs.

Regular evaluations allow you to stay ahead of your dog’s pain and keep their treatment plan effective.

Frequently asked questions

What are the signs that my dog has arthritis?

Common signs of arthritis in dogs include stiffness, limping, difficulty getting up or lying down, reduced interest in walks, and noticeable pain when touched near the joints. You may also notice changes in behavior, such as increased irritability or withdrawal.

Dogs with arthritis often avoid stairs, have trouble jumping onto furniture, and may tire more quickly during exercise. If you observe any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary exam to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes.

Can a dog wheelchair help with arthritis?

Yes, a dog wheelchair can be very helpful for dogs with advanced arthritis, especially when the condition affects their ability to walk or stand comfortably. A mobility cart reduces pressure on inflamed joints, supports the dog’s weight, and allows for safe, supported movement. It can also help prevent muscle atrophy by encouraging gentle activity.

Wheelchairs are especially useful for rear-end weakness, and many dogs quickly adapt to using them. A properly fitted wheelchair from a trusted provider, like Walkin’ Pets, ensures safety and comfort.

How can I make my home safer for a dog with arthritis?

To make your home safer for an arthritic dog, start by addressing flooring. Use rugs or non-slip mats to prevent slipping on tile or hardwood. Place orthopedic beds in easy-to-reach areas and avoid requiring your dog to climb stairs. Pet ramps or stairs with traction can be used for accessing elevated surfaces.

Keep food and water bowls elevated to reduce strain on neck and shoulder joints. Make sure your dog has access to all essentials on one floor if they struggle with stairs. Consistency in routine and environment also helps reduce stress and discomfort.

What is the role of a lifting harness for dogs with arthritis?

A lifting harness gives dogs with arthritis extra support when standing, walking, or using stairs. It wraps around the dog’s body and allows you to assist without putting strain on their joints or your own back.

Harnesses are particularly useful for large breeds or dogs with rear-end weakness. They can also prevent falls and make daily tasks like bathroom breaks much easier. Using a well-designed harness helps dogs stay mobile longer and reduces the risk of injury from overexertion or imbalance.

How much exercise should a dog with arthritis get?

Dogs with arthritis should receive regular but low-impact exercise to help maintain muscle tone and joint flexibility. Short walks, ideally on soft surfaces like grass, are often ideal. Swimming is another good option if your dog is comfortable in water. Avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or rough play.

The exact amount of exercise depends on your dog’s condition and pain level, but generally two to three short sessions per day are better than one long walk. Always monitor your dog for signs of discomfort and adjust activity accordingly.

When should I consider a mobility aid like a wheelchair for my dog?

You should consider a dog wheelchair when your dog begins to show significant difficulty walking, standing, or using their rear legs due to arthritis or other mobility issues. Signs that it may be time include dragging the back legs, frequent falls, or an unwillingness to walk despite interest in moving.

A canine wheelchair can restore independence, help prevent further joint damage, and improve your dog’s mental and physical health. Early use of mobility aids can extend quality of life. It’s best to consult with your vet or a canine rehab specialist to determine the right timing and fit.

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