Keep Moving: Safe Exercise for Healthy Joints

Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s joint health—but how your dog moves is just as important as how much. Regular movement keeps joints lubricated, muscles strong, and ligaments flexible. However, too much impact or the wrong type of exercise can strain joints, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or breeds prone to hip and elbow issues.

The goal isn’t just activity—it’s smart, joint-friendly activity that builds strength without causing damage.

1. Start With Low-Impact Foundations

When supporting joint health, think smooth and steady rather than fast and forceful. The best exercises cushion the joints while still providing excellent conditioning. Some of the most effective options include:

• Walking: The simplest and most accessible joint-friendly exercise. Short, frequent walks are better than long, strenuous ones.

• Swimming: A top choice for joint care. It builds muscle and endurance without any pounding impact.

• Gentle hill walks: Strengthen the hind legs and hips in a controlled way.

• Cavaletti training: Having your dog step over low poles builds coordination and muscle tone.

Avoid running on hard pavement or excessive jumping, especially for young or arthritic dogs.

2. Exercise Based on Life Stage

Your dog’s ideal activity level changes with age, just like humans.

Puppies:
Focus on playtime and exploration rather than structured workouts. Their growth plates are still developing, so avoid long runs, frisbee jumps, or rough play on hard surfaces.

Adult Dogs:
This is the prime time to build strength. Aim for 30–60 minutes of activity daily, balancing walks, swimming, and playtime. Vary the terrain to improve coordination and keep muscles evenly developed.

Senior Dogs:
Older pups benefit from gentler, shorter sessions. Focus on mobility over intensity—light walks, indoor play, and hydrotherapy can all help maintain flexibility without strain.

3. Warm Up and Cool Down

Even dogs need warm-ups and cool-downs! Before activity, start with a 5-minute slow walk to get blood flowing to the muscles and joints. After exercise, slow things back down with a gentle stroll or light stretching.

Some dogs benefit from passive range-of-motion exercises, especially seniors or those in recovery. Simply and gently bending and extending each leg helps maintain flexibility and comfort.

4. Strengthen the Supporting Muscles

Strong muscles act as shock absorbers for joints. Focus on exercises that build up the core, hips, and shoulders—these areas stabilize movement.

Try:

• Sit-to-stand exercises (like doggy squats)

• Balance work on a wobble board or cushion

• Controlled stair climbing (if your vet approves)

These help dogs maintain balance, coordination, and joint support as they age.

5. Mind the Surface

Surface type makes a huge difference. Hard or slippery flooring increases the risk of slips and strains. Opt for:

• Grass or dirt paths instead of asphalt

• Carpets, traction mats, or yoga mats indoors

• Avoid icy or uneven terrain that could cause sudden twists

Even small environmental tweaks help protect your dog’s joints during daily activities.

6. Recognize the Signs of Overexertion

Too much activity can cause micro-injuries that accelerate joint wear. Keep an eye out for:

• Limping or stiffness after play

• Reluctance to climb stairs or jump

• Difficulty getting up after rest

• Licking at joints (a sign of pain or inflammation)

If your dog shows any of these signs, rest them for a day or two and consult your vet before resuming exercise.

7. Hydrotherapy: The Gold Standard for Joint Care

Many veterinarians recommend canine hydrotherapy—exercise performed in warm water—for dogs recovering from injuries or managing arthritis. The buoyancy reduces weight-bearing, while resistance strengthens muscles safely.

Hydrotherapy sessions can dramatically improve flexibility, endurance, and range of motion, especially for senior or post-surgery dogs.

8. Make It Fun and Sustainable

The best exercise routine is one you both enjoy. Dogs thrive on consistency, so choose activities that fit your lifestyle. Whether it’s neighborhood walks, weekend hikes, or swim sessions, what matters most is steady, mindful movement.

Rotate activities to avoid repetitive strain, and celebrate your dog’s progress—every wagging tail and bouncy step is proof that you’re helping them feel their best.

9. Movement Is Medicine

When done right, exercise isn’t just a physical need—it’s medicine for the joints, the mind, and the heart. A well-exercised dog enjoys stronger muscles, steadier balance, and more years of comfortable mobility.

By keeping your dog moving safely today, you’re ensuring a lifetime of adventures tomorrow.