How Water Therapy Helps Dogs with Degenerative Diseases, Arthritis & Obesity
As pet parents, we all want to give our dogs the happiest, healthiest lives possible. But just like humans, dogs can face mobility challenges, chronic conditions, and weight issues as they age. Fortunately, there’s a gentle, effective, and incredibly rewarding way to support their health: canine hydrotherapy.
Also known as water therapy or swim therapy, hydrotherapy is a low-impact exercise method that uses the natural resistance and buoyancy of water to help dogs build strength, reduce pain, and improve mobility. At Dip’n Dogs Canine Swimming, we specialize in this life-changing therapy, providing a safe, professional space for dogs to heal, move, and thrive.
Let’s take a deep dive into how water therapy helps dogs suffering from degenerative diseases, arthritis, and obesity, and why it may be the best next step in your dog’s care.
What Is Canine Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy involves guided swimming or water-based exercises in a controlled environment, often led by trained professionals. Because water supports the dog’s weight, it reduces stress on joints, relieves pain, and improves circulation—all while allowing dogs to move freely and safely.
Unlike traditional forms of exercise, hydrotherapy allows for full-body workouts without putting additional strain on the bones and joints. That makes it an ideal option for dogs with chronic pain, joint inflammation, mobility limitations, or excess body weight.
How Water Therapy Helps Degenerative Disease
Degenerative diseases in dogs can slowly rob them of their quality of life, but hydrotherapy offers hope. Through regular water therapy sessions, dogs with these conditions can maintain or even regain mobility, experience pain relief, and stay mentally engaged.
Common Degenerative Conditions Treated by Hydrotherapy:
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
Hip Dysplasia
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Osteoarthritis
Spondylosis
Patellar Luxation
Cruciate Ligament Injuries (CCL tears)
Neurological Disorders
Muscle Atrophy
With these conditions, dogs often struggle with coordination, pain, or limb weakness. Hydrotherapy improves muscle tone, encourages joint mobility, and helps prevent further deterioration—without the impact and risks of land-based exercise.
Water Therapy for Canine Arthritis
Canine arthritis is incredibly common, especially in older dogs. As cartilage breaks down and joints become inflamed, pain and stiffness set in—leading to reduced movement and muscle loss. Unfortunately, less movement often means more pain and more decline.
Water therapy provides a game-changing solution:
Relieves joint pressure due to water buoyancy
Reduces inflammation by promoting circulation
Increases flexibility through gentle, full-range movement
Rebuilds muscle mass to support weak joints
In many cases, dogs who were once reluctant to move on land become eager participants in the pool. The result? A happier, healthier pup with better function and less pain.
Fighting Canine Obesity with Hydrotherapy
Obesity is one of the leading health concerns in dogs today. Excess weight can lead to diabetes, joint strain, respiratory issues, and reduced life expectancy. However, traditional exercise can be difficult—or even dangerous—for overweight dogs who are already suffering from joint issues or limited mobility.
That’s where swim therapy shines.
Because water supports a dog’s body weight, obese dogs can burn calories and build strength in a safe and non-painful way. Over time, regular hydrotherapy sessions can help reduce weight, increase energy levels, and even inspire better eating habits—simply because your dog feels better and moves more comfortably.
Breeds Prone to Degenerative Disease, Arthritis, and Obesity
While any dog can benefit from swim therapy, certain breeds are more prone to the conditions it treats. These include:
Breeds at Higher Risk:
Labrador Retrievers – Prone to hip/elbow dysplasia, obesity
German Shepherds – At risk for degenerative myelopathy, hip dysplasia
Dachshunds – High risk of IVDD and spinal issues
Golden Retrievers – Commonly develop arthritis and joint issues
Bulldogs (English & French) – Often overweight, with joint and spinal issues
Corgis – Prone to back problems and arthritis
Rottweilers – Susceptible to hip and knee problems
Newfoundlands – Often face obesity and joint degeneration due to size
Boxers – Prone to arthritis and weight-related issues
Pugs – Small frame plus weight gain can lead to early arthritis
If you have one of these breeds, regular swim therapy can be a preventive measure just as much as a treatment.
Why Choose Dip’n Dogs for Canine Water Therapy?
At Dip’n Dogs Canine Swimming, we offer much more than a doggy pool. We provide a professional, therapeutic experience designed to support your dog’s physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.
Private, one-on-one swim sessions
Heated, clean, and safe indoor pool
Trained staff experienced in canine hydrotherapy
Customized sessions based on medical history and goals
Stress-free environment for dogs of all sizes and comfort levels
We believe that every dog deserves the opportunity to move pain-free, feel strong, and enjoy life to the fullest—and water therapy is often the key to making that happen.
Ready to Help Your Dog Feel Better?
If your dog is struggling with joint pain, a degenerative condition, or extra weight, canine hydrotherapy could be the solution you've been searching for.
Whether you’re just starting to explore treatment options or you’re ready to dive in, we’re here to help. We accept both new and returning clients, and we’re passionate about helping dogs live their best lives—one swim at a time.
👉 Book an appointment today or call us at (407)227-0030 with any questions. We’re happy to walk you through the process and recommend the best plan for your dog.
Your dog deserves a life full of movement, comfort, and joy—and Dip’n Dogs is here to make that possible.