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Your once-bouncy companion is taking longer to get up in the morning. The stairs have become a challenge. Maybe the zoomies in the garden have been replaced by a gentle stroll and an early nap. If this sounds familiar, your dog is entering their senior years—and that means a few adjustments to keep them comfortable.
Senior dogs need extra support for their joints, regular grooming tailored to their reduced mobility, careful nutrition management, and more frequent vet check-ups. With the right care, your older dog can enjoy their golden years with far less stiffness and pain than you might expect.
This guide covers everything UK dog owners need to know about caring for an ageing dog—from spotting the first signs of joint trouble to choosing joint supplements like YuMove, adapting your home, and knowing when to book those all-important vet visits.
Medical Disclaimer
This article provides general information about senior dog care based on published veterinary sources. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your dog shows signs of pain, mobility issues, or sudden behaviour changes, please consult your vet. Every dog is different, and only a qualified veterinarian can provide diagnosis and treatment recommendations for your pet's specific needs.
There's no single age when dogs hit their golden years. It depends almost entirely on their size. Larger dogs age faster than smaller ones—so while your neighbour's Chihuahua might still be bouncing around at 12, your Labrador could already be feeling their years at 7.[1]
Here's a rough guide by size:
These aren't fixed rules. Your dog's genetics, diet, exercise history and overall health all play a part. But if your dog is approaching these ages, it's worth keeping an eye out for the subtle signs that they're slowing down.
Key point: Ageing isn't a disease. It's a natural process. But it does require a bit more attention to spot the difference between normal slowing down and something that needs a vet's input.
Stiff joints are one of the first things owners notice in their ageing dogs. What starts as reluctance to jump on the sofa often progresses to difficulty rising after a nap, hesitation on stairs, or a stiff-legged gait on cold mornings.
Dogs are remarkably good at hiding pain—it's an instinct. So you'll need to watch for subtle changes rather than obvious limping:
If you notice any of these, it's worth booking a vet check. Early intervention makes a real difference.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint problem in older dogs. It happens when the protective cartilage in joints wears down over time, leading to bone rubbing against bone. This causes inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility.[2]
Certain breeds are more prone to it—particularly larger dogs and those with genetic predispositions like hip or elbow dysplasia. But any older dog can develop OA, especially if they've been overweight or had previous injuries.
Your vet can diagnose arthritis through physical examination and sometimes X-rays. Treatment usually involves a combination of pain relief medication, weight management, controlled exercise, and joint supplements.
Joint supplements have become hugely popular in the UK. YuMove Joint Care for Senior Dogs is one of the most widely used, and it's the UK's number one vet-recommended joint supplement brand.[3]
The key ingredients to look for in any joint supplement are:
YuMove's formula uses ActivEase Green Lipped Mussel, which they claim contains higher levels of Omega-3s than standard mussel powders. The brand states that dogs can show a visible difference in 6 weeks.[3]
A note of caution: Joint supplements are not a replacement for veterinary treatment. If your dog has significant arthritis pain, they'll likely need prescription anti-inflammatory medication alongside any supplements. Always talk to your vet before starting any new supplement regime.
The UK's number one vet-recommended joint supplement: YuMOVE Senior Dog Joint Supplement - featuring ActivEase Green Lipped Mussel, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin. Available in tablet form for dogs aged 9+.
A few simple changes around the house can make a big difference to an older dog's comfort and safety. Think of it as making your home more accessible—not unlike adaptations you'd make for an elderly relative.
Slippery floors are a nightmare for stiff-jointed dogs. Laminate, tile and hardwood surfaces that your dog once bounded across can become genuinely dangerous. Older dogs lose muscle mass and coordination, making slips more likely—and a fall can cause serious injury.
Quick fixes:
If your dog is struggling to get onto the sofa, bed, or into the car, pet ramps or steps can help them maintain independence without putting strain on their joints. This is especially important for dogs with hip or spinal issues.
Look for ramps with a non-slip surface and a gentle incline. Avoid anything too steep—it defeats the purpose if they're still straining to climb it.
The PetSafe Folding Dog Ramp features a non-slip walking surface and folds flat for storage—ideal for helping senior dogs into the car or onto furniture without straining their joints.
A good bed becomes more important as your dog ages. Thin, flat beds don't provide the support ageing joints need, and lying on hard surfaces can cause pressure sores.
What to look for:
For senior dog joint support, the Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed with Memory Foam offers excellent value with a waterproof liner and machine-washable cover. For a more comprehensive guide to choosing the right bed, see our best orthopedic dog beds for large breeds.
Bending down to floor-level bowls can strain your dog's neck, shoulders, and back. Raised feeders bring food and water to a more comfortable height. The right height depends on your dog's size—roughly chest level when they're standing is a good guide.
Raised Dog Bowl Stands feature adjustable height settings and removable stainless steel bowls—perfect for reducing neck strain in senior dogs during mealtimes.
Grooming becomes more important—not less—as your dog ages. Older dogs often groom themselves less due to stiffness and reduced flexibility, which means matting, skin issues, and overgrown nails become more common.[5]
At the same time, the grooming process itself needs to be gentler. Standing for extended periods is tiring and sometimes painful for senior dogs. Long sessions in busy salons can be stressful.
The priority for senior dog grooming should be comfort and hygiene, not a show-ring finish. A good groomer will adapt their approach—working more quickly, allowing rest breaks, and focusing on the essentials rather than an elaborate style.
This might mean shorter sessions more frequently, rather than long appointments every few months. It's about maintenance and welfare, not vanity.
For many senior dogs, mobile grooming is the better option. A mobile groomer comes to your home, meaning:
That said, some salon groomers have specialist equipment like hydraulic tables and walk-in tubs that make handling easier for dogs with severe mobility issues. If you're sticking with a salon, talk to them about your dog's needs—a good groomer will be happy to adapt.
Senior dogs' nails often grow faster than you'd expect. Why? Because they're walking less. Without regular pavement pounding to naturally wear nails down, overgrown nails become common—and they're more than a cosmetic issue.
Long nails change how your dog stands and walks, putting extra strain on already-sore joints. In extreme cases, nails can curl round and grow into the paw pads. Monthly nail checks (and trims if needed) should be part of your senior dog's routine.
Regular grooming—whether professional or at home—is the perfect time to check your dog's body for lumps. Senior dogs commonly develop lipomas (benign fatty lumps) which are usually harmless but should be monitored.
However, not all lumps are benign. Any new lump, or one that changes in size, shape, or texture, should be checked by your vet. Early detection of problematic growths can be life-saving.
Cold weather makes grooming more challenging for senior dogs. Arthritis worsens in lower temperatures, reduced body temperature regulation makes hypothermia a risk, and thin senior skin becomes even more sensitive to harsh products and cold draughts.
During winter months, extra precautions are needed to keep your senior dog comfortable during grooming:
Maintain the grooming area at 22-24°C (72-76°F). This specific temperature range prevents joint stiffness from cold while avoiding overheating. Use lukewarm bath water between 37-39°C (98-102°F)—close to a dog's natural body temperature. Test water temperature with your wrist before bathing.
Limit grooming to 15-20 minute intervals in winter, or split appointments over two days. Cold weather makes joints stiffer faster, and senior dogs tire more quickly. Take frequent breaks and stop immediately if your dog shows signs of discomfort.
A damp coat in cold weather leads to rapid heat loss, which stiffens joints and increases hypothermia risk. Use low-heat dryers or gentle towel drying—avoid high-velocity dryers which stress older dogs. Pay special attention to the belly, armpits, and between the legs where moisture gets trapped.
Trim hair between paw pads to prevent ice ball buildup, which is painful to walk on. After every winter walk, clean paws thoroughly to remove road salt, de-icer, and antifreeze residue. Apply a protective paw balm before and after walks—look for lick-safe products containing shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax.
Paw Protection Wax
Food-grade wax formula with vitamin E that protects paws from snow, ice, salt, and de-icers. Creates a breathable barrier and absorbs quickly without leaving residue.
View on Amazon UK →Winter heating strips moisture from skin and coat. Use ultra-mild, pH-neutral shampoos designed for sensitive skin—oatmeal-based products work well for combating dryness. Follow with a moisturising conditioner to replace lost oils.
Pawdaw of London Natural Sensitive Shampoo
Mild, unscented shampoo with chamomile and aloe vera. pH balanced, hypoallergenic, and free from parabens and SLS. Handmade in England, perfect for senior dogs with sensitive skin.
View on Pawdaw of London →Your senior dog's dietary needs are different from when they were young and active. Getting nutrition right can help manage weight, support joints, and maintain muscle mass as they age.
As dogs age, their metabolism slows and they typically become less active. This means they need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Continuing to feed the same amounts as before often leads to weight gain—which is particularly problematic for senior dogs because excess weight puts additional strain on already-sore joints.
Obesity also increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and can worsen arthritis pain. If your dog is carrying extra weight, talk to your vet about a weight management plan.
There's a common misconception that older dogs need less protein to protect their kidneys. In fact, veterinary nutritionists now recommend that healthy senior dogs may need more protein than younger adults to help maintain muscle mass as they age.[6]
Senior dogs can lose 15-25% of their muscle mass between ages 7-12, a process called sarcopenia. Higher-quality protein—from sources like eggs, chicken, and fish—helps combat this. Look for senior dog foods with around 28-30% protein on a dry matter basis, or discuss with your vet if your dog has specific health conditions.
Older dogs often do better with smaller, more frequent meals rather than one or two large portions. This is easier on their digestive system and helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
Some senior dogs become fussier eaters—changes in taste and smell are common with age. Warming food slightly can make it more appealing, as can adding a splash of low-sodium broth.
Pay attention to how much your senior dog is drinking. Excessive thirst can be a warning sign of several conditions common in older dogs, including kidney disease, diabetes, and Cushing's disease.[7]
As a rough guide, dogs typically drink about 50-60ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. Drinking significantly more than 100ml per kg daily warrants a vet visit. Keep an eye on water bowl levels and note any sudden changes in drinking habits.
It's not just physical changes you need to watch for. Many senior dogs experience some degree of cognitive decline—sometimes called "doggy dementia" or, more formally, Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD).
CCD affects the brain in ways similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. Brain cells shrink and become damaged, and the dog's ability to process information and remember things deteriorates.[8]
Vets often use the acronym DISHA to describe the signs:
If your dog shows any of these signs, have them checked by a vet. Some symptoms can also indicate other treatable conditions—like arthritis causing reluctance to go outside, or a urinary infection causing accidents.
Many senior dogs develop some degree of hearing or vision loss. If your dog doesn't respond to their name as quickly, or startles when you approach from behind, their senses may be failing.
You can help by:
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for senior dogs—perhaps more so. Activities that engage their brain can help slow cognitive decline and keep them engaged with life.
Low-impact mental enrichment ideas:
Keep your senior dog's mind sharp with the AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat - a low-impact enrichment toy that encourages natural foraging behaviour without straining joints. For more complex mental challenges, the Nina Ottosson Dog Smart Puzzle offers adjustable difficulty levels perfect for gentle brain workouts.
Regular vet visits become more important as your dog ages. Many conditions common in seniors—including dental disease, kidney problems, and organ dysfunction—can be managed much more effectively if caught early.
While adult dogs generally need an annual check-up, most vets recommend senior dogs are seen every six months.[9] These more frequent visits allow your vet to monitor ongoing conditions and catch new problems before they become serious.
A typical senior wellness exam might include:
One of the hardest parts of having an ageing dog is knowing when their quality of life is declining. It's a question that weighs on most owners' minds: are they still enjoying life?
A useful approach is to keep a simple diary. Note the good days and the bad days. Can your dog still do the things they enjoy—even in modified form? Are they interested in food? Do they still greet you when you come home? These daily observations help you see the bigger picture over time.
Some vets use quality of life scales that look at factors like pain levels, mobility, hygiene, appetite, and happiness. These can help structure what often feels like an overwhelming decision.
Nobody wants to think about the end, but planning ahead is a kindness—both to your dog and to yourself. Knowing your vet's policies on home euthanasia, understanding the options available, and having some idea of what you'd want when the time comes means you won't be making difficult decisions in a crisis.
Talk to your vet if you're unsure how to approach this. They've helped many families through this process and can offer guidance tailored to your situation.
Most joint supplements like YuMove are designed for dogs aged 7-8 and over, though some products are suitable for younger dogs showing early signs of joint issues. If your dog is a large or giant breed, or has a history of joint problems, your vet might recommend starting earlier. Always check with your vet before starting supplements.
It can be hard to tell the difference. Some stiffness after rest is normal in older dogs, but if your dog consistently struggles to rise, avoids stairs or jumping, licks their joints, or seems reluctant to exercise, that's worth investigating. Your vet can examine them and, if needed, take X-rays to confirm whether arthritis is present.
This is a common misconception. Unless your dog has kidney disease (which your vet would diagnose and advise on), healthy senior dogs often benefit from maintaining or even increasing protein intake to preserve muscle mass. Look for high-quality, easily digestible protein sources.
For many senior dogs, yes. Mobile grooming eliminates travel stress and offers a quieter, one-on-one environment. However, some salons have specialist equipment that can help dogs with severe mobility issues. The best choice depends on your individual dog's needs and temperament.
Look for the DISHA signs: Disorientation (getting lost or stuck), changes in Interactions with family, Sleep-wake cycle changes (awake at night, sleeping all day), House-soiling despite being previously house-trained, and Activity changes (pacing, repetitive behaviours). If you notice these, book a vet appointment—some symptoms can also indicate other treatable conditions.
Caring for a senior dog is about adapting to their changing needs while helping them stay comfortable and engaged with life. Joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and cognitive changes are all part of the ageing process—but with the right support, your older dog can still enjoy their golden years.
The key points to remember:
For more detailed guidance on supporting your senior dog's mobility, see our guide to joint supplement subscription plans. And if your dog struggles with longer walks, an all-terrain dog stroller can keep them part of family outings without straining their joints.
Your senior dog has given you years of loyalty and companionship. These adjustments are simply a way of returning the favour during their most vulnerable years.
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