Dog Mobility Health Check: Is Your Dog Slowing Down?

As dogs get older, it's natural for them to slow down a little. However, gradual changes in mobility can be easy to miss because they often happen over weeks or months.

Our simple mobility health check can help you spot early signs that your dog may be experiencing discomfort or reduced mobility.

Please note: This checklist is intended as a guide only and should not replace advice from your veterinary surgeon. If you're concerned about your dog's mobility or notice any sudden changes, always seek veterinary advice.

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Mobility Health Check

Work through the questions below and answer Yes or No.

The questions highlight daily changes, changes in behaviour, exercise & movement.

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Does your dog seem slower getting up after lying down?
Yes   No  Do they hesitate before jumping into the car or onto the sofa?
Yes   No  Are they reluctant to climb stairs they previously managed with ease?
Yes   No  Do they take longer to settle down or appear restless when lying down?
Yes   No  Are walks becoming shorter than they used to be?
Yes   No  Does your dog tire more quickly during exercise?
Yes   No  Have they become less interested in playing or chasing toys?
Yes   No  Do they stop to rest more frequently during walks?
Yes   No  Have you noticed stiffness after exercise or first thing in the morning?
Yes   No  Does your dog have a shortened stride or appear to "shuffle" when walking?
Yes   No  Do they limp occasionally, even if it improves after moving around?
Yes   No  Have you noticed any changes in the way they sit or stand?
Yes   No  Has your dog become less enthusiastic about activities they once enjoyed?
Yes   No  Do they seem more irritable when touched around their legs, hips or back?
Yes   No  Have they started avoiding slippery floors?
Yes   No  Do they struggle to maintain balance on uneven ground?
Yes   No  Full Name *
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What Do Your Answers Mean?

0–2 "Yes" answers

Your dog's mobility appears to be good. Continue providing regular exercise, maintain a healthy weight and keep an eye out for any future changes.

3–5 "Yes" answers

You may have noticed some early changes in your dog's mobility. It would be sensible to monitor these signs and consider discussing them with your veterinary surgeon at your dog's next health check.

6 or more "Yes" answers

Multiple changes in mobility could indicate that your dog would benefit from a veterinary examination. Early assessment can help identify the cause of reduced mobility and allow your vet to discuss the most appropriate management options.

Supporting Your Dog's Mobility

There are several ways to help keep your dog comfortable and active throughout their life:

• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Provide regular, appropriate exercise.
• Avoid sudden bursts of strenuous activity after long periods of rest.
• Use non-slip mats on slippery flooring where needed.
• Speak to your veterinary surgeon if you notice any changes in your dog's movement or behaviour.

Don't Ignore Small Changes

Many owners assume their dog is "just getting older," but reduced mobility is not always an inevitable part of ageing. Small changes are often the first signs that something isn't quite right.

By recognising these changes early and seeking veterinary advice when needed, you can help your dog stay comfortable and enjoy an active, happy life for longer.

For more information, feel free to read our blog: Managing Arthritis in Dogs

Read Now

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Posted by Farm Vet Supplies
3rd August 2026

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