How to Keep Your Dog Active and Pain-Free
Keeping your dog active, mobile, and pain-free is one of the most important responsibilities you have as a pet owner. Whether your dog is young and energetic or entering their senior years, joint and muscle health plays a huge role in their everyday happiness. In 2025, UK dog owners are turning more towards natural supplements, better nutrition, and proactive care to help extend their pet’s mobility and quality of life.
In this guide, we explore the most effective ways to keep your dog pain-free, including exercise routines, dietary changes, and natural supplements that support long-term joint health.
1. Understand the Early Signs of Pain and Stiffness
Dogs often hide discomfort. The earlier you recognise the signs, the easier it is to treat.
Common early symptoms:
Slower movement in the morning
- Hesitation to jump on the sofa or into the car
- Stiffness after walks
- Limping after resting
- Reduced playfulness
- Difficulty using stairs
If you’re unsure whether your dog is experiencing discomfort, UK charity PDSA offers helpful guides:
🔗 https://www.pdsa.org.uk
2. Keep Your Dog at a Healthy Weight
Excess weight puts heavy strain on joints. Even 1 kg overweight can increase pressure on hips, elbows, and knees.
For nutrition guidance, UK owners often refer to:
🔗 RSPCA Dog Nutrition Advice
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/diet
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces inflammation and dramatically lowers the risk of arthritis.
3. Daily Low-Impact Exercise Is Key
High-impact activities like long runs or jumping can worsen joint wear, especially in medium or large breeds.
The best low-impact exercises:
- Short, frequent walks
- Swimming (excellent for joint relief)
- Gentle play indoors
- Soft-surface walking (grass > pavement)
For professional exercise advice:
🔗 Blue Cross – Dog Exercise Guide
https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/exercise
4. Natural Supplements That Support Pain-Free Movement
Natural joint supplements are one of the most effective long-term ways to keep dogs active.
Supplements shown to support mobility include:
- Glucosamine & Chondroitin – helps cushion joints
- MSM – natural anti-inflammatory
- Salmon Oil (Omega-3) – supports joints, skin, and heart health
- Turmeric/Curcumin – reduces stiffness
- Green-lipped mussel – excellent for joint lubrication
- Prebiotics – supports digestion and reduces inflammation
- Immunity boosters – help with recovery and energy
Your brand:
✔ Dr. Paul Hip & Joint Support
✔ Dr. Paul Salmon Oil
✔ Dr. Paul Prebiotics and Immunity Boosters
Website:
🔗 https://www.dr-paul.co.uk
These supplements help maintain cartilage, improve flexibility, and reduce joint pain naturally.
5. Provide an Orthopaedic Sleeping Surface
Where your dog sleeps can have a big impact on joint pressure.
Look for:
- Orthopaedic memory foam
- Raised beds (reduce floor stiffness)
- Temperature-controlled bedding
6. Create a Joint-Friendly Home Environment
Small changes can reduce strain and prevent long-term damage.
Helpful adjustments:
- Use dog ramps for the sofa or car
- Place non-slip mats on slippery floors
- Elevate food bowls
- Keep nails trimmed to avoid misaligned walking
7. Regular Vet Check-Ups (Even if Your Dog Seems Fine)
Annual (or senior bi-annual) vet checks help detect joint issues early.
For reliable UK information:
🔗 NHS – Arthritis in Pets (Pet Health)
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pet-health/
(General guidance, not a product page)
8. Support Your Dog with Mental Stimulation
A healthy mind supports a healthy body. Dogs that stay mentally engaged are more active and in better moods.
Try:
- Puzzle toys
- Snuffle mats
- Obedience training
- Slow enrichment games
9. Combining Diet, Lifestyle, & Supplements for Best Results
Dogs thrive when these three areas are balanced:
1️⃣ Quality nutrition
2️⃣ Proper exercise
3️⃣ Joint-supporting supplements
A complete care plan helps keep dogs mobile for years longer, especially as they enter senior age.
For tailored supplement options:
🔗 https://www.dr-paul.co.uk
