As dogs age, many find stairs, smooth floors and jumping into the car harder. Small changes at home can give an older dog back a lot of confidence and independence.
Talk to your vet first
Weak or wobbly back legs can have many causes, and some need treatment. If your dog is slowing down, slipping more or struggling to get up, a check-up is the right first step.
Making the house easier
- Non-slip rugs or runners on smooth floors, especially where your dog gets up and turns.
- A ramp or a step for the car and the sofa instead of jumping.
- Baby gates on the stairs when you are not there to help.
- Food and water bowls at a comfortable height, and a firm, supportive bed.
- Trimmed nails and the fur between the paw pads, so the pads can grip.
Lifting without hurting your back
Lifting a medium or large dog with a towel under the belly is hard on both of you. A lift harness with a handle lets you take part of the weight while your dog walks, so you stay upright and your dog keeps using its own legs.
- Bend your knees, not your back, and keep the handle close to your body.
- Take only as much weight as needed; let your dog do the rest.
- Practise on flat ground before trying stairs.
Keeping active
Short, regular walks on even ground usually suit older dogs better than one long outing. Ask your vet or a canine physiotherapist which exercises are right for your dog.
A brace supports and stabilises; it does not diagnose or heal. If your dog is limping, in pain or recovering from surgery, ask your vet whether this support suits your dog and for how long it should be worn.