My dog was diagnosed with arthritis last year at the age of 3, and to say I was surprised is a little bit of an understatement.
Even with an arthritis diagnosis, your dog can still be active; you just need to adjust your routine. Here are some straightforward guidelines for exercising a dog with arthritis.
How dogs were walked before developing osteoarthritis
A single primary walker took almost all of the dogs on most of their walks. Many owners spoke of their long-standing love of walking, but a few recalled that they had never enjoyed it before getting a dog. For many, seeing their dog have fun made walks more enjoyable, and dogs frequently served as a gateway to more social interaction with other walkers. A wheelchair-bound man’s integration into the community and several male owners’ perceptions of their ability to walk in green public spaces were both improved by owning dogs.
The majority of dogs received two types of walks that we will refer to as “functional” and “leisure.” The main goal of “functional” walks was to schedule the dog’s exercise and bathroom needs around the owner’s free time. Regardless of the weather or season, the primary walker would typically take one or two short, local walks close to their homes each day. Although some noted that these walks were useful to force the owner to exercise when they might not otherwise, especially in bad weather, descriptions of these walks frequently framed them in terms of duty and necessity.
“Leisure” walks were typically longer, less time-constrained, and took place in green or rural areas, sometimes far from homes. Depending on the time of day, the season, the weather, the owners’ mood, and whether or not other family members wanted to participate, their location and timing could change at any time. Owners described walking their dogs in this situation, not for the dogs. While non-working owners typically had less time restrictions on their occurrence, working owners typically conducted these walks in the evenings, on weekends, or on holidays. Frequently, leisure walks took the place of at least one functional walk that would have happened on the same day. Several owners spoke about picking vacation destinations based on the day-long leisurely walks they could take with their dog.
Leisure walks appeared to have a wide range of positive effects that allow both dog and owner to unwind and appreciate their surroundings. While leisurely walks were frequently chosen based on the scenery or route owners wished to travel, some also made a point of choosing places where their dog could play and exercise off lead. It was obvious that many owners found enjoyment in seeing their dog have fun. While some walkers actively sought out solitude, many spoke of pleasant encounters with other walkers in green spaces. Several had developed new friendships as a result. Rarely did dog owners experience exclusion from existing social dog walking groups if their dog did not fit in, usually as a result of its behavior.
Leash Walking
It’s simple to keep our dogs active by going for walks around the neighborhood or in a nearby park. To keep your dog moving throughout the day, you can take them on a few shorter walks. It doesn’t have to be one long walk every day.
5 Low Impact Exercises for Dogs With Arthritis
Your dog can continue to exercise even if they have arthritis. There are many low-impact activities you can still engage in with each other. Here’s 5 exercises that are great for dogs with arthritis.
FAQ
How often should you walk a dog with arthritis?
For arthritic pets, “little and often” is the best form of exercise. Instead of taking them on one long walk, it might be better to take them on several short walks each day. Keep their exercise routine as consistent as you can by avoiding short walks during the week and long walks on the weekends.
Is dog walking good for arthritis?
Pets with arthritis can move more easily when low-impact exercise is started after a brief period of walking or gentle play. It also gradually raises their heart rate while easing muscle injuries, cramps, and sprains.
How long can you walk a dog with arthritis?
Regular Moderate Exercise If your joints are arthritic, stick to 10 minutes a day during the week and an hour a day on the weekends. This can really flare them up quickly.
Should I walk my dog if he is limping with arthritis?
Owners of dogs with arthritis can take them for walks in their local areas. Dogs could stay active throughout the day by taking brief walks. Without putting undue strain on their joints, this activity will help their muscles loosen up.