Maintaining joint health is key to helping your dog move with ease, especially as they age or if they’re already dealing with arthritis or past injuries. One of the most effective, non-invasive ways to support your pet’s mobility at home is through passive range of motion (PROM) exercises.
In this guide, Dr. Ruth Roberts walks us through a simple, step-by-step routine you can perform with your dog to gently improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and lower the risk of further injury. Whether your dog already has joint discomfort or you're simply aiming to keep them in top shape, these exercises can make a big difference.
Why Dogs May Benefit from Stretching
Stretching can be a gentle, supportive practice for dogs of all ages—not just seniors or those recovering from injury. When done correctly, stretching may offer several potential benefits for your dog’s comfort, mobility, and overall well-being.
1. May Support Mobility and Flexibility
Gentle stretching may help maintain your dog’s natural range of motion, which is especially helpful as they age or experience stiffness. For example, if a joint becomes less mobile, it can affect posture and lead to tension in other areas. Regular, careful stretching may help reduce this tension and support more balanced movement.
2. Can Help Prepare the Body for Activity
While not a replacement for warm-up routines, stretching may help prepare your dog’s muscles and joints for activity, especially in highly active dogs or those involved in sports. Increasing awareness and range of motion before play can help your dog move with greater ease.
3. May Support the Recovery Process
For dogs recovering from injury or surgery, passive range of motion (PROM) exercises may help support healing when guided by your veterinarian. These gentle movements can help maintain flexibility and comfort while preventing long-term stiffness during recovery.
4. Can Encourage Circulation and Tissue Health
Stretching may help promote healthy blood flow to muscles and joints, delivering nutrients and helping carry away waste. This gentle support may be particularly helpful for dogs with reduced activity levels or those entering their senior years.
5. May Ease Minor Muscle Tension
Overuse, inactivity, or even emotional stress can contribute to muscle tightness in dogs. When done calmly and within your dog’s comfort zone, stretching may help reduce mild tension and improve ease of movement.
6. Strengthens Your Bond and Encourages Relaxation
Stretching sessions offer calm, intentional touch that may help your dog feel more relaxed and secure. Over time, this quiet routine can become a soothing experience that deepens your connection, especially for dogs who are anxious or sensitive to touch.
What Is Passive Range of Motion?
Passive range of motion means you’re moving your dog’s joints for them, without them actively participating. These slow, controlled movements help maintain joint flexibility, promote circulation, and prevent the loss of mobility that often accompanies aging or inactivity.
You’ll want to focus on each major joint, and always work within your dog’s comfort zone, never force a movement that causes pain.
PROM for the Front Legs
✅ Shoulder
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How to do it: Support the shoulder with one hand and gently grasp the upper arm with the other. Slowly move the leg forward to extend it, then back to flex it.
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Watch for discomfort: If your dog shows signs of discomfort (like pulling away), stop and gently ease up to that limit without pushing further.
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Tip: Hold each stretch for a few seconds before reversing the motion.
✅ Elbow
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How to do it: Support the elbow, grasp the lower leg, and gently bring it into full flexion, then extend.
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Repeat 5 to 12 times, based on your dog’s tolerance.
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Tip: Stay calm and encouraging, especially if your dog is nervous or stiff.
✅ Wrist (Carpus)
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How to do it: With one hand supporting the paw and the other on the leg, move the wrist through gentle flexion and extension.
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Tip: Dogs with sensitive toes may wiggle or react—hold the paw in the center to reduce stimulation.
PROM for the Rear Legs
✅ Hip
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How to do it: Support the hip and thigh, gently moving the leg forward to extend, then backward to flex.
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Tip: Place one hand on the hip to feel the motion and help guide the joint properly.
✅ Knee (Stifle)
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How to do it: Support the knee and grasp the lower leg, gently moving through extension and flexion.
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Why it matters: This isolates the joint, reducing strain on the hip and helping you identify where your dog is uncomfortable.
✅ Hock (Ankle)
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How to do it: Hold the hock joint and gently move the foot into flexion and extension.
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Tip: Repeat 5 to 12 times, just like the other joints, always adjusting for comfort.
How Often Should You Do PROM Exercises?
You can perform this routine daily or every other day, depending on your dog’s condition. For dogs recovering from injury or managing chronic joint issues, consistent PROM exercises may lower the risk of muscle tightness and improve comfort over time.
Always work gently and slowly, and watch for any signs of pain or resistance. If your dog starts relaxing into the motion, it’s a good sign they’re benefiting from it.
Why PROM Works
- May help promote joint lubrication
- Can support the maintenance of range of motion
- May ease mild stiffness or tension
- Supports the body’s natural recovery process
- Encourages bonding through calm, therapeutic touch
Final Thoughts
Supporting your dog’s mobility doesn’t have to wait until discomfort sets in. With just a few minutes each day, passive range of motion exercises can help reduce stiffness, support joint flexibility, and improve your dog’s overall comfort, especially as they age or recover from injury.
Always move slowly, follow your dog’s lead, and stay within their comfort zone. The goal is progress, not perfection. If you’re unsure where to start or want guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs, a certified Holistic Pet Health Coach can walk you through a safe, supportive plan.
👉 Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation or explore our pet parent course: Whole Pet Wellness Academy to confidently support your dog’s health and happiness at every stage of life.
For more information and instructions on stretching for dogs, watch the video below:
