Exercise for Dogs:

Your Senior Dogs Need Regular Exercise Too

Exercise for dogs - is it still important once he becomes older? Absolutely.  Dogs need regular exercise at EVERY age. Just make sure you check with your vet before having your senior dog take on a new exercise routine.

Benefits of regular exercise include:

• Lowers blood pressure
• Improves cardiovascular function
• Lowers pulse rate
• Helps regulate weight which is especially important in preventing disease in older dogs
• Aids proper digestion
• Improves joint flexibility
• Cleanses the body of toxins.

Probably the most important benefit of regular dog exercise is that it just simply makes your dog happier.  This is true at every age, but can be especially helpful for our senior pets. Many dogs get anxious and fearful as their bodies age and exercise is a great way to counteract this anxiety.

Older dogs shouldn’t be expected to exercise at the same level of intensity as younger dogs, though. Where you may take a younger dog out for a long run, an older dog will benefit from a more leisurely, less strenuous walk. 

Swimming is another good choice for our older Cotons because it's a more gentle, low-impact exercise.

Make sure your senior dog gets plenty of water before, during, and after all exercising and monitor your dog for any signs of stress or fatigue.

Make it fun! It’s a great way to bond with your senior dog.

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