Exercise
5 Low-Impact Exercises for Dogs with Arthritis
Muscle is the best support a joint has. When an arthritic dog stops moving, the stabilising muscles atrophy and the joint gets worse. These five exercises keep dogs moving without loading painful joints.
Educational content — not veterinary advice
Information on this page is general guidance only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. Always work with your vet before making condition-related dietary changes.
1. Hydrotherapy (swimming)
The gold standard. Water supports around 90% of body weight while providing resistance, so muscles work hard while joints don't take impact. UK: The Canine Hydrotherapy Association lists accredited centres. USA: look for CCRT-certified rehabilitation centres.
2. Straight-line leash walks
No zig-zags, no sudden turns. Short leash, straight line, moderate pace. Frequency beats duration: three 15-minute walks are kinder than one 45-minute one.
3. Cavaletti pole work
Lay low poles (or broomsticks) on the ground and walk your dog over them slowly. Stepping over the poles forces controlled hip and stifle flexion through a full range of motion without impact.
4. Passive range-of-motion (PROM)
With the dog relaxed on their side, gently cycle each leg in slow circles — 5–10 reps per leg. PROM keeps synovial fluid moving through the joint even on days your dog doesn't feel like walking. Ask a vet or physio to show you the technique first so you don't over-flex a sore joint.
5. Balance / wobble boards
Stand your dog on a slightly unstable surface (start with a thick cushion). The small weight-shifts recruit deep core and stabiliser muscles around each joint — protective strength you can't build with straight-line walking alone.
Warm up and cool down
Always start with a 5-minute slow leash walk before targeted work, and finish with another slow walk. Cold, stiff joints do not tolerate sudden effort well.