Exercise for an Older Dog

Exercise for an older dog

Exercise is an important element in your dog’s day to day management. It’s vital for their mental stimulation, physical therapy, weight management and owner/patient bond. However, exercise may have to look a little different when your dog has osteoarthritis. We have to remember that our dogs don’t have the forethought that hours of boisterous play, ball chasing, working, or running off lead is likely to cause them pain later.  At the time of exercise, they will be under the influence of endorphins and other pain-relieving neurochemicals, making it all that little bit easier when in the moment.

If your dog has arthritis and struggles after a play, there are a few things to consider:

-       Just because your dog can still chase balls, doesn’t mean they should! Consider what you do on your walks and be prepared to change. Stopping high-intensity games and replacing them with more mentally stimulating challenges – like hide and seek!

-       Dogs do no plan and conserve energy, so we have to keep an eye on them. Watch your dog walk, are they slowing down? Are they dragging their feet, have they become wobbly or intermittently stumbling? If so, then you might have to turn around and head home sooner rather than later.

-       Dogs are amazingly loyal, and generally they will walk until you stop. Make sure you take a break, avoid difficult terrains, be present and look out for signs of fatigue.

-       Be mindful of where you’re walking. The surface and terrain could be too hard for your dog maybe avoided. Firm predictable flat short grass will reduce the forces being placed through and aggravating arthritic joints and surrounding muscles.

-       Dogs rarely vocalise, and generally tolerate moderate pain. A trip, stumble or fall is likely to be painful even if they don’t show it. These painful events lead to a greater pain experience, and thus harder to control.