How to keep older dogs feeling limber
As people age, they tend to get stiffer and their joint flexibility reduces. And of course, the same is true of dogs, but just at a faster rate. Many dogs by the age of seven are stiff and find it difficult to get out of their little dog beds in the morning.
So, what can you do to keep your senior pup feeling comfortable and active? While aging is an inevitable process in dogs, there are some things that you can do to ensure that they remain limber for longer.
Choose shorter, more frequent walks
Instead of taking your dog out for long, 1-2 hour long walks in the morning or at midday, spread their walks over several sessions while they’re awake. For example, you could break up their walks into short 15-minute sessions, three or four times a day. Get in to walk on things like soft grass or sand. This keeps their muscles engaged and reduces the risk of lactic acid build-up that could make them feel stiff.
Incorporate swimming
It might sound strange to take your dog swimming, but it can be an extremely effective form of hydrotherapy. Dogs love water-based activities, and it reduces the pressure on their joints while allowing them to get plenty of exercise. Dogs with arthritis or hip issues are particularly fond of swimming. You can take them to a local pond or even a swimming pool that has opened itself up for dogs.
Try supplements
You could also look into joint supplements for dogs. These help reduce inflammation in the joints themselves, targeting the root of their immobility issues. They can also do things like boost circulation and improve overall joint health while maintaining flexibility.
Go for a dog massage
Another option depending on where you live might be to go for a dog massage. Dogs often benefit significantly from gentle massages, especially on the legs, shoulders, and back. Massages improve their blood flow and reduce tension, just like they do in people. For some dogs, the problem is literally tension in the muscles.
If you can release some of this, then they can feel more comfortable and they’ll be more mobile, especially in older ages. Some massage therapists also include warm compresses on dogs’ muscles to reduce inflammation further. Keep trying and seeing what works.
Play low-impact games
You could also look into playing low-impact games with your dog. This encourages them to move their bodies in more ways than just one. For example, you could play fetch or tug on soft ground to keep them moving. You could also get them to run through hoops or overcome obstacles to encourage them to use different types of muscles. Hitting their bodies from different angles can often affect it.
Maintain a healthy weight
Finally, make sure your dog maintains a healthy weight. Don’t let them get overweight. The more they weigh, the more likely they are to have inflammatory joint conditions and simply damage their joints because of the weight of their bodies.
