Whether your dog is your hiking buddy, an agility star, or just full of boundless energy, regular activity plays a big part in keeping them physically and mentally healthy. But just like us, dogs need proper recovery after intense exercise to help prevent injuries and keep them feeling their best.
Here are five natural and effective ways to support your dog’s recovery after a long walk, training session or weekend adventure.
1. Feed a Targeted Performance and Recovery Supplement
Summer adventures, sports training, and long hikes all increase your dog’s physical demands. A dedicated performance and recovery supplement can help sustain energy, build strength, and speed up post-exercise recovery.
Look for formulas that include amino acids, vitamins, joint support, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. These supplements are ideal for active and working dogs, supporting endurance, muscle repair, and resilience after a hard day’s work.
Some of our favourites include:
ProDog Revive Energy & Vitality for Dogs, as low as £12.99
Vet-approved dietary supplement providing a blend of amino acids and antioxidants, designed to maintain balanced energy levels, power performance, and aid quicker muscle recovery.
ProDog Perform Strength & Stamina for Dogs, as low as £16.99
High-impact performance supplement for canine athletes, packed with ProDog’s signature tri-protein blend, fatty acid-rich fish collagen and bioavailable vitamins & minerals.
Winston & Porter Max Strength for Dogs, as low as £25.99
A full-spectrum joint supplement for working dogs, with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to promote energy, stamina, and recovery.
Diet’Dog Muscle Building & Endurance for Dogs, as low as £14.99
Protein-rich, low-fat superfood blend formulated for sporting dogs, designed to build muscle, promote endurance, and support overall health.
Verm-X Organic Dog Food Topper: Active & Working Dog Blend, £18.77
Tailored support in an easy-to-feed format, Verm-X’s organic blend of adaptogenic herbs, spices and botanicals act as powerful natural restoratives for working dogs.
2. Keep Your Dog Hydrated — Especially in Hot Weather
Hydration is key to recovery. Exercise can quickly deplete your dog’s water levels, especially on warmer days, and even mild dehydration can affect their energy, focus, and recovery time. Always offer fresh, cool water after exercise and encourage regular drinking.
For a hydration boost with added joint support, try Pawer Water, Furr Boost, or a nourishing bone broth. These tasty options are rich in collagen to help maintain joint elasticity and keep your dog hydrated from the inside out.
3. Consider Canine Physiotherapy or Massage
For highly active dogs, sport dogs, or those who regularly accompany you on long hikes, physiotherapy or regular soft tissue work can make a big difference. Canine physiotherapy helps release muscle tension, improve flexibility, and support faster recovery — reducing the risk of long-term injuries.
You can find a canine physiotherapist through ACPAT, The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy.
If you don’t have access to a professional, why not try a gentle massage at home? Slow, purposeful strokes across the shoulders, back, and legs can help your dog wind down and ease any post-exercise stiffness. This is also a great way to check for any sore spots, or lumps and bumps to be mindful of.
4. Use a Natural Muscle Rub or Liniment
Sore muscles aren’t just a human problem! After a particularly intense day, your dog may benefit from a natural muscle rub or liniment to ease discomfort and support circulation
.
We recommend options like Basic Elements Natural Organic Oil Joint Rub, Hilton Herbs TLC Tendon & Ligament Care Lotion, or Hilton Herbs Muscle Magic. These are all formulated specifically for animals using natural herbal extracts like arnica, comfrey, and witch hazel to gently soothe tired muscles and joints.
Warning: Always choose a product designed for pets, as many human muscle rubs contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs if ingested during grooming.
5. Support Joint Health with Daily Supplements
Active dogs put extra pressure on their joints, so long-term joint support is essential. A high-quality supplement can help protect cartilage, reduce inflammation, and support mobility over time.
We stock a wide range of natural joint supplements that feature powerful ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, turmeric, and MSM. These work together to protect the joints and support everyday comfort and flexibility — ideal for dogs who love to stay on the move.
For more information on joint supplements, check out our Ultimate Guide to Joint Supplements for Dogs?
Recovery is just as important as the exercise itself — especially for dogs who are always on the go. By building a simple post-exercise routine around hydration, joint care, and natural support, you can help your dog stay happy, healthy, and ready for their next adventure.
Browse our full selection of natural recovery products for dogs to help your companion feel their best after every outing.
