Excessive Panting Older Dogs

Exercise Tips for Older Dogs

Unfortunately, as our dogs get older, they suffer from many of the complaints that humans experience. However, our canine pals are often so eager to please that they will be prepared to carry out activities that are uncomfortable and even painful. Subsequently, dog owners need to be considerate of an aging dogs abilities.

The Importance of Exercise for Elderly Dogs

Of course, this is not to suggest that our older dogs should be mollycoddled. In fact, a complete lack of activity will cause more problems for aging dogs. Gentle exercise will help with joint conditions, such as arthritis and will also contribute to your dog's mental well-being.

While bearing this in mind, it is, however, necessary to slow down for our elderly canines. There may be things that he, or she, is no longer capable of doing. Therefore, owners will need to be patient and adaptable with games and activities.

For example, owners should be careful when exercising their dogs during the summer months. It may be wise to keep your elderly dog inside during the extreme heat and humidity. Try exercising your pet during the cooler times of the day.

Additionally, you may like to consider one of the many canine mobility aids, such as dog carriers, and carts. These will allow you to give your dog a rest if he, or she, becomes too fatigued during a walk or a family day out.

Good Activities for Elderly Dogs

Of course, the activities, games and exercises that your dog enjoys will vary depending on your pet's stamina and how mobile he, or she, is. Therefore, those listed are intended as a guide.

Fetch - All dogs love to play fetch. However, as your dog ages, he, or she, may not be able to play for extended periods. In addition, you may need to be careful when choosing an object to throw. For example, sticks and hard objects should be avoided, instead try soft balls, or plush toys.

Walking - Walking is good for an elderly dog, although as with games of fetch, you may need to shorten your walking sessions. In addition, if your dog has arthritis, you may need to walk slower to ensure that he, or she, is not discomforted. It may also be advisable to change your route if there are any steep inclines or difficult terrains.

Swimming - Another activity almost universally loved by our canine chums. Swimming is a great way for dogs with joint problems to get exercise without straining already painful joints. Warm water will offer pain relief from arthritis and will increase overall mobility.

Tog of war - This is another activity that may need to be modified to ensure that an elderly dog is not caused discomfort. However, your dog is sure to love the game (although you may need to let him, or her, win on occasion). This exercise is also good for the health of your dog's teeth and gums. However, any games of tug of war should be played gently.

Regardless of which exercise, game or activity, you choose, your dog's age, mobility and health should be taken into account. As mentioned above, your dog may overexert itself in an effort to please you, so you need to be mindful of signs of fatigue, such as excessive panting and/or drooling.

Conversely, it is equally important to keep your dog as active as possible for as long as possible. A good exercise regime will keep your dog healthy and happy well into his, or her, old age.

Samantha Markham is a professional freelance writer, based in the UK. She is currently writing articles for remmeer.com, a supplier of high quality pet products. Visit remmeer for a great range of unique dog toys and elevated dog storage feeders.

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