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How long to walk a dog with arthritis?

Leon Cummings
Leon Cummings
2025-08-08 17:19:49
Count answers : 19
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When starting to exercise a dog who isn’t in a regular exercise program, it is best to walk them frequently but for short periods of time, which reduces the rest time between walks, during which their joints will stiffen. A good start is 10 minutes of walking, three times a day. If your pet doesn’t experience increased stiffness, it can be increased on a weekly basis. Controlled, regular physical exercise is one of the core treatments for canine osteoarthritis, along with weight control, physical rehabilitation, and pain management. Exercise increases circulation to the muscles and joints, decreases stiffness in the joint capsule and soft tissues, reduces pain, maintains strength, and benefits the cardiovascular system. If your dog’s condition is worsening, consult with your veterinarian to determine if there is a different reason for their symptoms or their pain therapy plan needs to be reassessed.
Robin Boyle
Robin Boyle
2025-08-08 14:12:37
Count answers : 15
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Regular exercise is an absolute must for any arthritic dog – it’s just a matter of finding that perfect balance. Do: Go Low Impact Think swimming, walking, and gentle play. Low impact activities are great for the cardiovascular system, increasing muscle strength and girth, improving range of motion, helping with weight loss, and circulating blood to stiff joints. Simply 5 to 10 minutes of walking or playing, even just around the house, adds up and makes a huge difference day after day. Do: Keep It Consistent Do your best to create an exercise program for your dog that can be done daily or every other day. A short ten-minute walk or gentle indoor play session before and after work may be much more doable and still extremely beneficial.