What exercises are good for senior dogs?
Marcella Ullrich
2025-10-11 13:33:40
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One of the most beneficial forms of exercise for older dogs is walking.
Regular, short walks on a soft surface like grass are ideal for aging joints.
Keep a slow pace and avoid steep inclines or long distances, especially during hot weather.
Swimming is another excellent option for older dogs, especially those with arthritis or joint stiffness.
Water supports the body’s weight, allowing movement without stress on the joints.
Simple indoor activities like climbing short stairs or walking between rooms can benefit both dogs and cats.
Placing treats around the house encourages safe movement and mental engagement.
Avoid slick surfaces and be mindful of obstacles that could trip or frustrate an older pet.
The goal is steady, low-impact activity.
Eli Jenkins
2025-10-11 13:20:46
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1. Squats: working the Hindlimbs including the gluteal muscles and the core.
2. Your dog is also encouraging good range of motion of the joints of Hindlimbs.
3. Push Ups & Drops: working the Forelimbs and core, encouraging balance & strength.
4. You are also encouraging good range of motion of the joints of the Forelimbs.
5. Progression: Raise the Forelimbs on a FitPAWS Foam Balance Pad for one workout after the dog can perform the exercise with a square sit.
6. Progression: Add a second foam Balance Pad Add instability by having your dog place their Forelimbs on the FitPAWS Giant Disc Add even greater challenges if your dog is up to it by placing the Forelimbs on the FitPAWS Donut and then the FitPAWS Peanut.
7. Progression: Change the sit to a squat by encouraging your dog to walk a few quick steps along the wall as soon as your dog starts to sit.
8. Progression: 1 Encourage your dog to place their Forelimbs on the FitPAWS Giant Balance Disc and repeat above.
9. Progression: 2 Move to the FitPAWS Donut and then the Peanut, repeating the above exercise.
Mireille Koss
2025-10-11 11:31:54
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: 21
Cavalettis – are great for strength, balance, and flexibility.
Walking over a series of raised surfaces with slow, controlled movement builds muscle in your dog’s trunk and legs and helps them balance around obstacles.
You can make your own “course” using household items or purchase a cavaletti ladder/cone & bar kit.
The Standing Plank – Standing still for 10 seconds is really hard for some dogs, so start there.
Cookie Stretches – Have your dog stand comfortably as in the “Standing Plank” pose.
Back Extension – Have your dog stand with his or her front feet on a platform or step that’s about ankle high.
Up & Down Platform – If your pet is starting to have trouble with stairs, this exercise will help!
Sit to Stand – changing positions is great for core work!
Walking backwards in a figure eight is great for balance and rear limb strength.
A Wobble board or balance ball helps your dog uses many “stabilizing muscles” in their trunk and legs.
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