12-year-old Border Terrier slowing down after walks

A 12-year-old Border Terrier who's still keen to get out — that's a genuinely good sign. But slower recovery after walks is worth paying attention to. It's one of the clearest early signals that joints are working harder than they used to, even when the dog's spirit is willing. Before I suggest anything, can you tell me a bit more: how long are the walks typically, does he or she seem stiff specifically after rest — like getting up after a nap following a walk — and have you spoken to your vet about it at all?

That pattern — fine during, stiff and slow afterwards — is really classic for age-related joint stiffness rather than anything acute. Bramble's not struggling on the walk, she's just not recovering as quickly as she did. Worth mentioning to your vet at her next check, but it doesn't sound like an emergency. One thing I would say: a vet visit is useful here partly because they can rule out anything else, but also because if you do start a joint supplement, knowing her baseline helps. Can I ask — has she always been on a fairly active routine, and is she currently on any supplements or a joint-specific diet?

That's really helpful context. For a dog like Bramble — active her whole life, hitting this in her twelfth year, no existing joint support — the single most useful thing you can do right now is start her on a good glucosamine and green-lipped mussel supplement. The evidence base for green-lipped mussel in dogs is genuinely solid: it's an anti-inflammatory and supports cartilage, and it works better as a preventive and early-stage support than once things are well advanced. The product I'd point you to is YuMOVE Joint Care for Dogs — specifically the older or large breed version depending on what your vet suggests, but for a small active terrier the standard senior formula is right. It comes in a soft chew or tablet, most dogs take it willingly. You typically see a change in mobility and recovery after four to six weeks of consistent use. It's widely available on Amazon UK and well-priced for what it is. Don't expect overnight results — but owners very commonly report exactly the kind of improvement you're looking for: getting up more easily, less post-walk stiffness.

Carry on largely as normal — regular moderate exercise is actually beneficial for joint health, not harmful. The one adjustment worth making is to swap one longer walk for two shorter ones if you can. So instead of an hour straight, try 30 minutes morning and 30 minutes evening. It keeps her active and engaged without the prolonged loading on her joints in a single stint. That alone can make a noticeable difference to post-walk recovery, and it works alongside the supplement rather than instead of it. Bramble sounds like she's in good shape for her age — a bit of targeted support now can keep her comfortable for a good while yet.

That's a good plan. Give it six weeks before you judge whether it's working — joint supplements need time to build up. And do book that vet check when you get a chance, just so you have a proper baseline and can rule out anything else contributing. Bramble's lucky to have someone paying close attention at this stage.