whats a good exercise regime for an old dog why do u exercise it that way?

Answer 1

Studies have proven that the best exersize for humans and dogs is walking. It's better exersize than jogging or running and it's less damaging to joints.
Slow and steady is what older dogs (and humans) need. Let the dog set the pace and do short walks at first, then build up to longer ones.

Answer 2

Walking is a great exercise for older dogs, although it best not to push them too much. Too much exercise of any kind can make problems with arthritis worse and then your dog may be to sore to do anything for several days. They will usually let you know when they have had enough- just watch for signs of fatigue, if he/she wants to stop then let them. They usually know how much they can handle. Swimming is also a good exercise, but of course all dogs dont enjoy the water or you may not have acces to a good place for your dog to swim. If your dog is having problems with his/her joints talk to your vet about starting a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. These help to keep the cushioning around the joints healthy and keep everything lubricated. These are great because there are no side effects. Hope you and your dog have fun with your new routine.

Answer 3

i think it depends on how active your older dog is. my mum has a nearly 15 years parson russell terrier, that just wanders around her home and garden-she WILL NOT go for a walk as she flatly refuses! on the other hand if i do not take my nearly 13 years lancashire heeler for at least a three-four mile walk and free running exercise EVERYDAY! she can get very excitable! not only does this exercise burn off her excess energy but it helps to keep her in tiptop condition-as we go to the local companion dog shows during the summer, and she is ALWAYS complemented on her physical fitnes and general wellbeing for such an older dog-many times she has won 'best condition' classes over much younger dogs! i would not recommend this regime for ALL older dogs! but you must understand your own dogs limits and whether your dog has had the same exercise routine right from a very young age-my dog has ALWAYS had this type of regime as she was a very successful show dog in her younger days-so why should she want less of a walk as she gets older-if she doesnt want to go-she will let me know!

Answer 4

I have a 13yr old collie cross even though she is in quite good health for her age she is a bit stiff some mornings and has cataracts she is also a bit over weight,she goes for a light walk once a day and i play with her this seems to do the trick i also have a puppy which i had to get as i lost my gsd Nov last year he was my Meggie's soul mate,you wont believe how the puppy has helped.I'm not suggesting that you get another dog but if your dog likes other dogs let it play for a while invite a friend round who has a social dog and watch the change. my Meggie maybe old but still loves a game especially with her new friend.

Answer 5

a old dog needs a walk like any other dog but try splitting Ur walks into 3 even 4 so Ur older lad doesn't get as tired or even better try taking him swimming its gr8 for the joint as there is no weight on his poor little stems but as for walks id say sort and often don't forget a dog is like a human our bladders go eventually and he will only be able to hold it for a shorter amount of time

and as a treat try to give him a good massage once a week while ur grooming him hell love u for it and it will ease any pain if he has any

hope this helps

ps iv just realised iv been referring to Ur dog as a he sorry if she is a girl it just mine are both boys its a force of habit

Answer 6

As a dog gets older its just as important [more then in fact] to keep there minds stimulated.Short daily walks are normally enough for an older dog,as long as they can have a chance to go there own pace,and get to go to a different area once and a while.

Answer 7

walking,running all that kind of stuff is great for a dog.big dogs(Labradors)need 3-4 walks a day.small dogs(terriers)need 2-3 walks a day. a healthy dog needs the right amount of food as well.small dogs need about 2 bowls of food a day.big dogs will need about 3 bowls a day.they are very intelligent animals and can be trained to sit,stay,of,down,fetch ect ect ect.they are well behaved as long as they are happy.

good luck with your dog(-:

Answer 8

A walk is great. But if you have access to a pool or beach, that's an excellent exercise as well, especially for larger, heavier dogs -- low impact for those ol' joints.

Answer 9

As long as he's able take him for a nice long walk , if he start to lag behind then he is tired and will need a rest .
Give him some joint meds to make it easier for him to walk . He's a senior citizen so be kind and go at his own pace .

Answer 10

a good old walk