Just like humans, dogs with arthritis benefit greatly from gentle exercise. While their joints may be sore, movement helps maintain muscle tone, reduce stiffness, and improve overall mobility 🐕🦺❤️. The key is to focus on low-impact activities that keep your dog active without putting too much strain on their joints.
Here are some of the best exercises to help dogs with arthritis stay active:
1. Short, Frequent Walks
Instead of one long walk, try two or three short walks each day. Keep a steady, slow pace and avoid rough terrain. This helps reduce joint pressure while still keeping your pup moving.
2. Swimming or Hydrotherapy
Water-based exercises are ideal for dogs with arthritis. Swimming provides a full-body workout without stressing the joints. If you don’t have access to a safe swimming spot, canine hydrotherapy centers are a great alternative 💧🐾.
3. Gentle Indoor Play
Light fetch with a soft toy or slow-paced games inside can keep your dog mentally and physically engaged without overexerting them. Avoid games that involve jumping or sudden movements.
4. Walking on Grass or Soft Surfaces
Choose grass, sand, or padded trails over hard concrete when taking your dog outside. These surfaces reduce impact on their joints and make walking more comfortable.
5. Slow Stair Climbs (If Approved by Vet)
For dogs who can manage it, slowly walking up and down a few stairs can help strengthen muscles around the joints. Always supervise, and don’t force them if they show discomfort.
6. Balance and Stability Exercises
Using a wobble board, balance disc, or even a soft cushion, you can gently train your dog to engage their core and limb muscles. These are often recommended by canine physical therapists 🧘♂️🐶.
Tips for Safe Exercise:
- Always warm up with a slow walk.
- Stop immediately if your dog shows signs of pain or limping.
- Stick to a consistent routine, even if it’s short.
- Use joint supplements if recommended by your vet.
- Avoid high-impact activities like jumping, running, or agility.
When to Talk to a Vet or Canine Physical Therapist
Every arthritic dog has different limitations. A professional can design a tailored exercise plan to help your dog stay active without worsening their condition. Physical therapy and massage can also boost joint flexibility and pain relief.
With the right type of movement and lots of love, your dog can continue to enjoy an active and happy life—even with arthritis 🐾💪.