Not sure if that old friend who paces through your house really needs an exercise routine? Well, consider this:
• Veterinarians say that dogs of all ages and activity levels need regular exercise to stay healthy and trim.
• A regular workout can keep dogs from such “boredom behaviors” as chewing your slippers, gnawing on table legs, or digging up your prized pansies.
See why you and your pet could benefit from doggie phys ed? Then check out these suggestions to get started:
Walking
This is a good activity for all dogs, and especially older ones with creaky bodies. Walking doesn’t stress the joints, can be done in almost any weather, and lets your pet explore. And if she doesn’t have the stamina she used to, you can just walk her more often for shorter distances.
Your dog may yearn for freedom while you walk, but only let her run unleashed if she obeys commands, if you’re in safe, wide-open spaces, and if leash laws permit. Older dogs with arthritis are best exercised on a leash—running could aggravate the problem.
Jogging and running
Over time you might want to speed up from a walk to a jog or run. Make this transition gradually over a several week period and watch your dog for signs of fatigue or pain—running can be hard on an older dog’s creaky joints. If your dog has arthritis, don’t let her jog or run at all—walking and swimming are the best choices.
A couple of additional cautions: Don’t feed your dog one hour before or after running; doing so can cause bloat. (Bloat is a serious disease in which the stomach fills with air. In serious cases the stomach can twist, trapping the air and causing shock and even death.)
You also shouldn’t run on very hot days, because it can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. And keep in mind, the best canine companions for running are medium-sized to large dogs who are energetic and in very good health.
Swimming
If your dog likes the water, let her splash right in. She’ll get a complete workout that offers both muscle toning and aerobic benefits. Swimming also makes a great lifelong sport because it’s easy on the joints. That’s also why it’s a good exercise for dogs with hip dysplasia and arthritis. (One note: You’re trying to keep stress on the joints down, so don’t pick a swimming hole that requires your pet to maneuver an awkward dock or steep inclines.)
Some dogs, including the retrieving breeds, are natural swimmers, while others have no interest in water. If your dog refuses to consider water sports, don’t force her to swim. But if she’s just lukewarm about it, don’t give up right away. Many dogs grow to enjoy swimming if they’re introduced to the sport gently and gradually. And it’s a great choice in the summer because your dog won’t overheat.
Keep the first session short and stay at your dog’s side, praising her and encouraging her to move forward. If she’s only using her front legs to swim, you can help by placing a hand under her lower abdomen for support. Soon she’ll get the hang of it and use her rear legs, too.
After a few minutes, show her where to get out of the water. You’ll see—with a low-pressure approach, she’ll be happily swimming in no time. Add a few toys for her to retrieve and it’ll be fun for both of you.
During any swimming session, watch your dog carefully. If she’s slowing down, it’s time to quit for the day.
Playing fetch
Throwing a toy or ball for your dog to retrieve gets her heart pumping, gives yours a rest, and can be a lot of fun for both of you. If you play fetch, choose a toy that your dog likes to hold in her mouth. However, as with other vigorous exercises, if your older dog has arthritis, running after a toy may not be a good idea—you’re better off sticking to walking or swimming.
Soft balls, Frisbees, squeaky toys, and fleece toys all make good choices. Avoid small balls that your pet could swallow or inhale, and never use sticks because they can tear and puncture your dog’s mouth. Fenced yards or parks are the best places to play—your pet doesn’t risk running into foot traffic or into the path of a moving vehicle.
Biking and blading
The short advice: Don’t. Biking and in-line skating are fun for you, but it’s better to leave your dog at home. For most dogs, keeping up with you is too hard a workout. And if your pet runs free while you’re on wheels, she takes a big risk when you’re near roads and traffic. Even with a leash, the strap can tangle in the wheels of your bike and cause serious injury to you or your dog.
Exercising an obese dog
An overweight dog strains her heart and joints every time she moves, so talk to your veterinarian before you start her on a new fitness program and offer exercise in moderation. Walking and swimming make the best choices.
Start slowly and stop exercising when your pet gets tired—heavy panting and a lolling tongue will be your first clues. Once your dog sheds those extra pounds, she’ll still need plenty of exercise and a healthy diet to maintain her new figure.
A healthy habit
Exercising with your dog can lead to a lifetime of good health and good times. However, your pet’s exercise routine will change with her age and physical condition, so consult your veterinarian periodically. He or she can help you make wise fitness choices throughout the years.
