Winter Joint Care Tips for Senior & Active Dogs

Colder temperatures and damp Winter weather can be tough on your dog’s joints, especially for senior dogs and active breeds who may already be prone to stiffness or discomfort. Understanding how cold conditions affect joint health and knowing how to support your dog through the colder months, can make a big difference to their mobility.

Why Winter can be hard on your dog’s joints

Cold weather causes muscles and joints to tighten, often leading to stiffness and reduced flexibility. Damp conditions can also worsen existing joint issues, such as arthritis. 

For very active dogs, Winter brings extra challenges. Slippery surfaces increase the risk of strains and injuries, while shorter days often mean less exercise. Over time, this can lead to weaker muscles that normally help support and protect the joints.

Signs your dog may need extra joint support

Joint issues usually develop gradually, so it’s important to spot the early signs. Common symptoms include stiffness after rest, limping, hesitation before jumping or climbing and changes in behaviour such as irritability or reduced enthusiasm for walks. Some dogs may also lick or chew at sore joints.

How to support your dog’s joints this Winter

Support joint health through diet

Winter is the perfect time to take a closer look at what’s in your dog’s bowl. Good nutrition lays the foundation for healthy joints, helping to reduce inflammation and keep movement comfortable as temperatures drop. A balanced diet packed with joint-supporting nutrients can make everyday activities feel easier and more enjoyable for your dog. Our top pick? Impact+ Hydrolysed Dog Food for Joint Care. This hypoallergenic, low-calorie recipe is made with Hydrolysed White Fish to be gentle on sensitive stomachs while helping maintain a healthy weight.

To keep your dog moving comfortably, it’s enriched with Collagen Peptides and Green-Lipped Mussel, proven ingredients that help reduce stiffness and support flexible, pain-free movement. 

The result is a nutritious, easy-to-digest food that supports joints from the inside out.

Explore our other recipes with the Joint Care Pack, formulated to care for their joints all year round.

Give their joints a little extra care

For extra support, adding a high-quality joint or fish oil supplement can be especially beneficial for senior or highly active dogs. HoliPaw Joint Support Tablets are a perfect seasonal companion. Formulated with Vet-recommended ingredients, they help protect cartilage, support joint lubrication and promote smoother, more comfortable movement, even on cold, frosty mornings.

Maintain a healthy weight

Extra weight puts added strain on the joints, which can worsen discomfort. Winter often means less activity, so keeping an eye on portion sizes and treats is important for protecting your dog’s joints.

Keep them gently moving

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of regular movement. Consistent movement helps keep joints flexible and muscles strong. Aim for shorter, more frequent walks rather than long, strenuous outings. Always allow your dog time to warm up and avoid icy or slippery surfaces where possible.

If your dog shows ongoing pain, sudden limping or a noticeable change in mobility, it’s best to consult your Vet. They can assess your dog’s joints and recommend appropriate treatments.