How much exercise should a senior dog get a day?

Every dog is different and you know your pup best. As their guardian, it’s up to you to tailor their activities to their needs. Can your canine companion still handle a similar amount of physical activity as they did in their younger days, or do they now need more rest during walks and playtime? Keep exercise gentle but regular—short, daily exercises go a long way and will benefit your dog much more than a few big sessions per week. Little and often is best when exercising a senior dog. You’ll probably have to take shorter, flatter routes with some rest breaks, but walking is a grrreat low-impact exercise to keep your dog’s body and mind healthy in their golden years. Though your senior pup may not be able to walk as far as they used to, they still need the opportunity to go outside every day to sniff, get some fresh air, and stretch their legs. Always follow your pup’s lead and watch for signs of pain or exhaustion. Take it slow, stop if they look like they are tired or struggling, and never force your dog to exercise for longer than they’re able to, as overexertion can lead to stress or injury.

Thirty minutes a day may be a good rule of thumb. But if this seems to tire your dog out, you can experiment with shorter strolls, perhaps twice daily. The key is that you need to keep your senior canine companion moving consistently. Even short and easy walks can help to promote mobility, joint health and wellbeing. Take your dog on small walks at regular intervals. Consistent and moderate exercise is best for dogs of all ages. For older dogs, though, it becomes essential. If your dog goes without exercise for most of the week, they risk losing muscle tone and overall fitness.