Mobility and Slowing Down in Dogs: What It Means and When to Be Concerned
Understanding the signs of physical decline in your ageing companion
One of the most common and gradual changes we see in our dogs as they grow older is a loss of mobility. Maybe they no longer rush to greet you at the door. Or they hesitate before climbing the stairs. Or they sleep more and walk less.
It’s easy to chalk these changes up to “just getting old,” but sometimes they may be signs of underlying discomfort, pain, or general decline. As loving pet owners, recognising these signs early allows us to make adjustments that preserve comfort—and to plan for what’s next with kindness, not crisis.
Why Do Dogs Slow Down as They Age?
Just like humans, dogs experience a natural decline in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and energy as they grow older. Their joints may ache, their balance may shift, and even small movements can feel more challenging.
Common age-related causes of mobility issues include:
Arthritis (especially in hips, knees, and spine)
Muscle wasting
Neurological issues
Pain from underlying conditions
Cognitive decline (which can affect movement patterns)
Signs Your Dog May Be Struggling with Mobility
Some changes are subtle, others more obvious. Look out for:
Hesitating at stairs or needing help getting into the car
Stiff gait after waking up that wears off as they get moving
Slower walks or stopping more frequently
Difficulty getting up from lying down
Slipping on hard floors
Limping or favouring one leg
Dragging feet or nails wearing unevenly
Standing in a hunched or awkward posture
Shaking, panting, or seeming uncomfortable after minimal activity
Labradors are very stoic and often only show pain by panting more
Dogs rarely complain outright, but these behaviours can be their way of telling you something isn’t right.
Quality of Life vs. “Still Getting Around”
Some dogs adapt surprisingly well to their limitations. You may notice that they still follow you from room to room or wag their tail at the sight of their lead—even if they struggle to move comfortably.
But just because they’re mobile doesn’t mean they’re pain-free. In fact, dogs often hide their discomfort out of instinct, making it easy to overlook how much effort even simple movements require.
This is where quality of life matters most. Ask yourself:
Is my dog still enjoying their walks, or just enduring them?
Do they wake up stiff or in visible discomfort?
Are they sleeping more to avoid movement?
Are they increasingly anxious or withdrawn?
These are gentle indicators that your dog may be living with more discomfort than they’re showing on the surface. You may want to chat to your normal Vet about daily painkillers to keep them comfortable and mobile for longer.
Quality of life tool
To assist you in making an accurate assessment of your pet’s health, I have created an online tool. This tool will asks you to answer specific questions related to each area of concern. It takes about 5 minutes and will provide you with a recommendation according to the answers you provide.
When Slowing Down Signals End-of-Life Changes
There comes a point when reduced mobility is no longer just a matter of ageing, but a sign that your dog is nearing the final stage of life. When they can no longer rise to toilet themselves, are constantly stiff or sore, or start to lose interest in the world around them despite pain meds, it may be time to consider what’s kindest.
This doesn’t mean rushing into a decision—it means being open to exploring options like in-home euthanasia, where your dog can pass peacefully in the place they feel safest, without the stress of travel or clinic visits.
Choosing a Peaceful Path: End-of-Life Care at Home
When pain becomes too difficult to manage, or when treatment options become limited, it may be time to consider whether continued care is in your pet’s best interest. This is where in-home euthanasia offers a peaceful, loving alternative.
Instead of another stressful vet trip, your pet can stay in their own bed, surrounded by familiar smells and gentle voices. You have the space to say goodbye on your terms, without being rushed, watched, or overwhelmed in a clinic setting.
You Don't Have to Decide Alone
If you're worried your pet may be in pain but aren’t sure what to do next, I offer free, no-pressure consultations. Together, we can talk through what you’ve noticed, assess your pet’s quality of life, and gently explore whether end-of-life care may be the kindest option.
📞 Contact me today for a compassionate conversation, or learn more about how in-home euthanasia works.
