How to keep senior dogs active and healthy

Why is it important for an older dog to stay active?

First and foremost, regular exercise is essential to prevent muscle loss and keep joints healthy and mobile.

Older dogs’ joints may become stiffer and their mobility may be reduced, but the right physical activity can help them enormously. Even a simple daily walk can do wonders to keep your joints flexible and prevent arthritis pain. Let’s also not forget the weight of the quadruped. As dogs age, they become more prone to weight gain, and obesity is a common problem that can put a strain on joints and organs. Through regular exercise, you can maintain your figure and, most importantly, your health!

But not only the body needs to stay active, but also the mind! As dogs get older, they may start to show signs of cognitive decline: those little moments of confusion or forgetfulness. Mental training is key to keeping your dog’s brain young and agile. Interactive games, learning new commands, or even exploring new places will stimulate him mentally and help him stay alert. This way you can prevent or delay the signs of cognitive decline, ensuring that your old friend retains his curiosity and enthusiasm for life!

So whether you have a dog who has always been very active or who prefers to relax more, you’ll find that there are many ways to tailor training to your senior dog’s pace and health. Here’s how to create an exercise routine so your dog stays fit and enjoys every moment, even into old age.

How to adapt exercise for your senior dog

The first thing to consider when creating an exercise routine for your senior dog is meeting his physical needs and capabilities. Older dogs generally have lower energy levels and may have health problems such as arthritis or hip dysplasia that affect their mobility. Here are some helpful tips:

Low impact exercises

Choose activities that have low impact on quadrupedal joints. Slow, regular walks are great for keeping your dog moving without overtaxing the body. You can also try swimming if your dog is comfortable with water, as it is a gentle activity that helps strengthen muscles and reduce stress on joints.

Moderate frequency and duration

With older dogs it is important to regulate the duration and intensity of exercise. Instead of one long, strenuous session, opt for shorter but frequent walks. This way, your furry friend will benefit from the exercise without becoming overly tired. Also, pay attention to signs of fatigue: if you notice that he slows down or stops often, it’s time to end your training session.

It is essential to monitor the quadruped’s state of fatigue and discomfort during and after the activity. The main signs of tiredness or discomfort are:

• Difficulty getting up after a training session;
• Limping or stiff movements;
• Excessive breathing or prolonged wheezing;
• Difficulty moving around in the following days.

If you notice any of these signs, consult your vet and change your exercise routine to be more gentle.

The training surface

When planning exercise for your senior dog, it’s important to consider the type of surface he will be exercised on. Older dogs may have difficulty walking on slippery surfaces such as tile or hardwood floors, which can cause injury or joint pain.

Opt for soft surfaces such as grass, non-slip carpets or even specially designed dog mats. They provide a better grip and reduce the risk of slipping. Furthermore, if you have a courtyard or access to a park, make sure the ground is flat, without irregularities that could compromise the balance of your four-legged friend.

Mobility exercises

Because their flexibility may decrease, light range-of-motion exercises are a great way to keep joints flexible and prevent stiffness.
Try doing gentle stretching exercises for your legs and back to maintain flexibility. For example, after a walk, you can guide your dog to do gentle stretches by rewarding movements where he reaches for a favorite treat or toy. These small mobility exercises can be incorporated daily and do not require intense physical effort, but contribute a lot to your dog’s overall comfort.

Easy games

Even if the quadruped can no longer run as much as when he was young, this does not mean that he cannot enjoy adapted interactive games. Simple games like fetching a light toy or even looking for a hidden reward are activities that will stimulate both his body and mind.
Instead of encouraging vigorous running, you can turn ball fetch into a light interactive game in which your dog fetches the toy at a moderate pace and you provide rewards and encouragement. These activities provide mental and physical stimulation without overloading your joints.

How to mentally stimulate your senior dog

In addition to physical exercise, it is essential to include activities that stimulate the mind. Mental training helps prevent cognitive decline and keeps your dog active and engaged. Here are some simple ways to keep your dog’s brain active:

Interactive games

There are many interactive games available for dogs, such as puzzles or toys that release rewards when handled. These games are great for mental stimulation and provide your dog with a fun challenge that keeps their mind occupied.

Environmental exploration

If walks become boring, try taking your dog to a new environment, such as a park or different natural area. Exploring a new environment stimulates your dog’s senses and gives him the opportunity to use his brain to process new smells and sounds.

Listening exercises

Even if your dog is older, it’s never too late to teach him new commands. Obedience training, such as simple commands like «sit,» «come,» or «lie down,» is great for keeping your dog’s mind active and strengthening the bond between you. Rewards and praise during these sessions are the key to success.

Don’t forget that in addition to physical and mental stimulation, it is equally important for older dogs to ensure that health is at the forefront. Health monitoring is essential to avoid accidents or complications during exercise. Here are some things to consider:

Regular visits to the vet

As your dog ages, visits to the vet become even more important. Be sure to take your pet for regular checkups to monitor overall health, including joints, weight and heart capacity.

Maintaining ideal weight

Obesity poses a serious risk to older dogs because it can worsen joint problems and affect the heart and internal organs. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust diet based on activity level. An active dog will need a balanced diet to support his energy, but without increasing the risk of weight gain.

Joint health supplements

If your vet recommends it, you can introduce joint supplements to support cartilage health and reduce arthritis pain. These supplements can help maintain mobility and reduce discomfort during exercise.

Even though your elderly furry friend may not run around with as much energy as before, the love and devotion they give you remains the same. It’s a time when your bond becomes stronger and the time you spend with him becomes even more precious. So make sure you give him the attention and care he needs to stay healthy, both physically and mentally, and don’t forget that every slow walk, every moment of quiet play or relaxation together means a lot to him and contributes to his quality of life. that leads.