Exercising Arthritic Dogs: Safe Practices for Joint Health

Watching a once energetic pup struggle with stiff joints and achy movements is heartbreaking. Arthritis, a common ailment in canine companions, particularly as they age, significantly impacts their mobility and quality of life. But don’t despair, because exercise isn’t off the table for a furry friend. It’s a crucial part of managing their arthritis and keeping them happy and healthy.

This article aims to guide pet parents through safe and effective ways to exercise their arthritic dogs, ensuring they stay active while protecting their precious joints. We’ll share the benefits of exercise, discuss suitable activities, and offer practical tips to make every movement a comfortable one for a beloved companion. Let’s start with understanding canine arthritis.

Understanding the Aches and Pains: Canine Arthritis

Canine Arthritis, also known as Canine osteoarthritis, is a common and often painful condition that affects many dogs, especially as they age. It’s a degenerative joint disease, meaning it gradually worsens over time. Imagine the smooth cartilage that cushions a dog’s joints wearing away, like the tread on a well-loved tire. This leads to bone rubbing against bone, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness – making even simple movements a struggle.

What Causes Arthritis?

Some factors that contribute to the development of arthritis in dogs are listed below.

Age: As dogs age, their joints naturally wear down due to repeated use, leading to the breakdown of cartilage, which acts as a cushion between bones. With aging, the synovial fluid that lubricates joints becomes less effective, increasing friction and wear on joint cartilage.

Injuries: Fractures, ligament tears (e.g., ACL tears), and other traumatic injuries to the joints lead to post-traumatic arthritis.

Surgery: Surgical procedures on joints sometimes lead to arthritis as a complication.

Hip Dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint, commonly seen in larger breeds, which causes improper joint function and leads to arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia: A similar malformation in the elbow joint that leads to joint instability and arthritis over time.

Increased Joint Stress: Excess weight puts additional pressure on joints, especially in the hips, knees, and elbows, accelerating cartilage wear and contributing to the development of arthritis.

Lyme Disease: Bacterial infections, such as those caused by ticks, lead to inflammation of the joints and arthritis.

Septic Arthritis: Bacterial infections within the joint itself cause severe joint inflammation and damage.

Immune-Mediated Arthritis: In some cases, a dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks its joint tissues, causing inflammation and arthritis. This includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis in dogs.

Obesity: Extra weight puts additional stress on joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown.

Nutrient Deficiencies: A diet lacking essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin contribute to joint health deterioration.

Overnutrition: Excessive calcium intake in puppies leads to abnormal bone and joint growth, predisposing them to arthritis.

High-Impact Activities: Dogs that are highly active or participate in demanding activities, like agility training or hunting, experience repetitive stress on their joints, leading to early arthritis development.

Breed: Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to joint problems and arthritis, including larger breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Great Danes.

“Risk factors for canine osteoarthritis include modifiable factors (neuter status and body weight) and unmodifiable factors (sex, breed, and age),” according to the 2020 study by Anderson, K., Zulch, H., O’Neill, D., Meeson, R., & Collins, L., titled “Risk Factors for Canine Osteoarthritis and Its Predisposing Arthropathies: A Systematic Review.” 

Spotting the Signs: Is it Arthritis?

Recognizing the signs early is key to managing arthritis and improving a dog’s quality of life. Look out for these common indicators:

Limping or favoring a leg: This is often the most noticeable sign, especially after rest or exercise.

Stiffness: A dog seems stiff or slow to get up after lying down, particularly in the morning.

Difficulty with stairs or jumping: Once easy Tasks become challenging due to joint pain.

Reluctance to play or exercise: A dog is less enthusiastic about their usual activities due to discomfort.

Swelling or warmth around joints: Inflamed joints appear swollen or feel warm to the touch. Try applying CBD balm to the swollen area.

Behavioral changes: A dog is more irritable, withdrawn, or even aggressive due to pain.

If any of these signs are noticed, schedule a visit with a dog’s veterinarian. They perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence and severity of arthritis.

“Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment of inflammatory arthritis can control symptoms, minimize damage, and protect against mortality and morbidity,” according to the 2017 study by Ledingham, J., Snowden, N., & Ide, Z., titled “Diagnosis and early management of inflammatory arthritis.”

Remember, the sooner arthritis is diagnosed, the sooner it is addressed with a treatment plan to manage the condition and keep a furry friend comfortable and active.

Why Exercise Matters: The Key to Comfort and Mobility

Some owners are hesitant to encourage exercise for their arthritic dogs, thinking rest is the best medicine. While rest is certainly important, controlled and appropriate exercise and physical therapy is equally crucial for their overall well-being. Think of it like gently oiling those rusty hinges – movement helps to keep the joints lubricated, promoting flexibility and easing stiffness.

“The “Physiotherapy Pyramid” prioritizes environmental modification, exercise plan, OA-specific home exercises, and veterinary physiotherapy to improve mobility and quality of life for dogs with osteoarthritis,” according to the 2022 study by Mille, M., McClement, J., & Lauer, S., titled “Physiotherapeutic Strategies and Their Current Evidence for Canine Osteoarthritis.”

Regular exercise offers a multitude of benefits for dogs grappling with arthritis. Let’s explore how it makes a positive impact on their physical and mental health.

Enhanced Joint Mobility and Range of Motion

Just like stretching a stiff muscle, exercise helps to maintain and even improve the range of motion in a dog’s arthritic joints. Additional supplements like CBD may boost the process even further. This increased flexibility makes everyday movements, like getting up from a nap or climbing stairs, less painful and more comfortable.

Stronger Muscles for Better Support

Think of muscles as the scaffolding that supports a dog’s joints. Exercise helps to build and maintain muscle strength, providing crucial support to those achy joints and reducing the strain they experience during movement.

Natural Pain Relief and Reduced Inflammation

Physical activity stimulates blood flow, which helps to reduce inflammation and deliver essential nutrients to the joints. Exercise also triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, providing the dog with some much-needed relief.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Keeping a dog at a healthy weight is crucial for managing arthritis. Every extra pound puts additional pressure on their joints, exacerbating pain and discomfort. Regular exercise, combined with a balanced diet, helps a dog shed excess weight and keep their joints happy.

A Happier, More Engaged Pup

Exercise isn’t just about physical health; it also plays a vital role in a dog’s mental well-being. Physical activity provides mental stimulation, reduces boredom, and helps combat anxiety and depression, common companions of chronic pain. So, a regular exercise routine helps a dog feel more joyful and engaged with the world around them.

Remember, the goal is to find a balance between rest and activity. With a carefully tailored exercise plan and guidance from the dog’s attending veterinarian, an arthritic dog still enjoy a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Exercise Routines Vary by Breed and Size

Different dog breeds and sizes have unique needs and limitations when it comes to exercising with arthritis. Designing exercise routines to these specific characteristics ensures that activities are both safe and effective for your furry friend. Here’s how exercise plans can vary based on the size and breed of your dog.

Large Breeds

Large breeds like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers are prone to joint issues, including arthritis, due to their size and weight. Their larger frames naturally place more stress on joints, requiring careful consideration when planning exercise routines.

Recommended Activities

Swimming: The buoyancy of water supports their weight, reducing joint strain while allowing for muscle strengthening.

Short Leash Walks: Focus on slow, controlled walks on soft surfaces like grass to avoid high-impact stress on their joints.

Gentle Strengthening Exercises: Controlled exercises like sit-to-stand movements help build supporting muscle without overexerting joints.

What to Avoid

• High-impact activities like running or jumping, which can accelerate joint wear and tear.
• Long walks on hard surfaces such as concrete, which increase joint stress.

Small Breeds

Smaller breeds like Dachshunds, Pomeranians, and Shih Tzus face unique challenges due to their size. While their lighter weight reduces joint strain, their shorter legs and specific body structures can make certain exercises uncomfortable or risky.

Recommended Activities

Indoor Activities: Light indoor play, such as scent games or hide-and-seek, can keep them active without overexertion.

Balance Exercises: Using a wobble board or cushion to improve core strength and joint stability.

Short Walks: Frequent, short walks on even terrain to encourage mobility without causing fatigue.

What to Avoid

• Activities requiring frequent jumping, such as climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture, as these movements strain their joints.
• Overexertion during play, which can cause joint inflammation.

High-Energy Breeds

Breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Jack Russell Terriers have high energy levels, which can lead to frustration if their activity needs aren’t met. Arthritis management for these breeds focuses on finding safe outlets for their energy.

Recommended Activities

Hydrotherapy: Provides a safe way to burn energy without stressing joints.

Controlled Fetch: Use a short throw and soft surface to minimize joint impact.

Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys and scent games can help satisfy their need for activity without overloading their joints.

What to Avoid

• Long-distance running or agility exercises that involve sudden stops and turns.

Giant Breeds

Breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs have a higher risk of developing arthritis due to their size and weight. Their exercise routines should prioritize joint protection and muscle support.

Recommended Activities

Swimming: A highly effective low-impact option to build strength without joint strain.

Gentle Walks: Very short walks on flat, soft surfaces.

Assisted Exercises: Use harnesses or support slings to help them move comfortably.

What to Avoid

• Steep inclines, stairs, or uneven terrain that can exacerbate joint pain.
• Prolonged standing or weight-bearing exercises.

Tips for All Breeds

Regardless of breed or size, always design exercise routines to your dog’s individual needs. Monitor their responses to activities and adjust accordingly. Consult your veterinarian to develop a personalized plan that takes into account their breed, age, and arthritis severity.

More Tips for Encouraging Reluctant Dogs to Exercise

Exercising an arthritic dog can be challenging, especially if they’re reluctant due to pain or fear. Patience, creativity, and understanding are key to helping them stay active. Here are practical tips to encourage a hesitant dog to embrace exercise:

Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Positive reinforcement helps build a dog’s confidence and creates a positive association with exercise.

Reward-Based Encouragement:

• Offer praise, petting, or treats after completing an activity, even if it’s just a small step like walking a few feet or trying a new stretch.
• Use enthusiastic tones to convey your excitement, making the activity feel fun and rewarding.

Marking Progress:

• If using a clicker for training, “mark” the moment your dog makes an effort (e.g., standing, taking a step, or engaging with a toy) and follow it with a reward.
• Consistency in rewards helps reinforce the behavior you want to see.

Use Favorite Toys or Treats for Motivation

Motivation can be the key to unlocking a dog’s willingness to move.

Incorporate Play:

• Use your dog’s favorite toy, such as a squeaky ball or plush, to make exercise more enjoyable.
• Gentle games like rolling a ball short distances or encouraging them to follow a favorite toy can stimulate movement.

Treat Trails:

• Lay a trail of small treats to encourage them to move, such as walking across a room or climbing a ramp.
• Break treats into tiny pieces to avoid overfeeding while maintaining their interest.

Scent Games:

• Hide treats or toys around a safe, enclosed area and encourage your dog to sniff them out. This combines light activity with mental stimulation.

Gradual Progress Tracking

Dogs with arthritis need a slow, steady approach to exercise. Tracking progress ensures they stay within their comfort zone while gradually building strength and mobility.

Start Small:

• Begin with minimal activity, like a short leash walk or a brief session of stretching.
• Limit sessions to 5–10 minutes initially and gradually increase as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Monitor Response:

• Keep an eye on signs of discomfort, such as limping, whining, or reluctance to continue.
• Adjust the duration or intensity of activities if your dog shows signs of pain.

Create a Progress Journal:

• Record daily activities, duration, and your dog’s response to track improvements over time.
• Share this information with your veterinarian to fine-tune your dog’s exercise plan.

Additional Tips for Reluctant Dogs

A Few more additional tips may help perfect your dog’s exercise routine.

• Exercise in familiar, quiet locations where your dog feels safe.
• Avoid loud or busy areas that may increase stress.
• Kneel to their level and use a calm, soothing voice to reassure them.
• Avoid pushing or pulling, as this can create negative associations.
• Pick times of the day when your dog is naturally more energetic, such as after a nap or meal.
• Avoid exercising during extreme heat or cold, which can exacerbate arthritis discomfort.

By combining positive reinforcement, favorite toys or treats, and gradual progress tracking, you can transform exercise into a positive experience for your dog. With time and patience, even the most hesitant canine companions can learn to enjoy movement, improving their mobility and overall well-being.

Finding the Right Fit: Safe and Enjoyable Exercise Options

When it comes to exercising an arthritic dog, the key is to choose activities that are gentle on their joints. Let’s explore some options that strike the perfect balance between activity and comfort.

Low-Impact Activities That Get Tails Wagging

Leash walking: Short strolls on a leash are a great way to keep a dog moving. Choose soft surfaces like grass or dirt, and be sure to use a well-fitting harness to avoid putting pressure on their neck.

Swimming and hydrotherapy: The buoyancy of water takes the pressure off joints, allowing the dog to move freely and build muscle without pain. Consider hydrotherapy sessions for a controlled and supervised aquatic workout.

Scent games: Engaging a dog’s nose in a treasure hunt for hidden treats is a fantastic way to provide mental stimulation and encourage movement without straining their joints.

Balance and coordination exercises: Wobble boards and other balance tools help improve core strength and stability, supporting those achy joints.

Exercises to Avoid: Protecting Those Precious Joints

High-impact activities: Running, jumping, and rough play put too much stress on a dog’s joints and worsen their arthritis.

Overexertion and overheating: Take breaks, provide plenty of water, and avoid exercising in extreme heat or humidity.

Painful activities: Always watch a dog’s body language. If they show signs of pain or discomfort, stop the activity immediately.

“Dogs with osteoarthritis of the hip joints experience complex changes in gait, involving more joints than the affected hip joint, requiring careful consideration when planning rehabilitation programs,” according to the 2012 study by Bockstahler, B., et al., titled “Hind limb kinematics during therapeutic exercises in dogs with osteoarthritis of the hip joints.”

Exercise Essentials: Tips for a Safe and Happy Workout

Here are some practical tips to make exercise sessions safe and enjoyable for an arthritic dog:

• Warm-up and cool-down: Start with gentle stretches and massage to prepare their muscles and joints for activity. End with a relaxing cool-down to help them recover.
• Regularity and consistency: Aim for short, frequent exercise sessions rather than one long workout. Consistency is key to maintaining joint health and mobility.
• Terrain and weather: Choose flat, even surfaces for walking, and avoid slippery or uneven terrain. Be mindful of extreme temperatures, as cold weather exacerbates joint pain.
• Monitor the dog: Watch for signs of pain or fatigue, such as limping, panting excessively, or lagging behind.
• Consult the dog’s veterinarian: They provide personalized guidance on exercise plans, medications, and other therapies to help manage a dog’s arthritis.

Beyond Exercise: Supporting Joint Health

While exercise is essential, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing stress on the dog’s joints. Talk to the dog’s vet about a suitable diet and exercise plan.
• Supplements and medications: A veterinarian recommends supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, or CBD products to support joint health, or medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Assistive devices: Harnesses, ramps, or braces help dogs navigate stairs, get in and out of the car, and move around more comfortably.

“Canine osteoarthritis treatment focuses on pain relief and management, with common treatments including hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, weight management, dietary supplementation, and drug therapy,” according to the 2011 study by Rvn, K., titled “Canine osteoarthritis: improving quality of life.”

Conclusion: A Happy, Active Life is Still Possible

Witnessing a dog’s struggle with arthritis is tough, but remember, a fulfilling life is still within reach. By prioritizing their comfort and adapting their exercise routine, owners help them stay active, happy, and pain-free.

Remember, a dog’s attending veterinarian is the best ally. Consult them for personalized guidance on exercise, medications, and other therapies to ensure a furry companion receives the best possible care. With love and support, an arthritic dog continues to enjoy walks in the park, games of fetch (modified, of course!), and all the simple joys that make life with a dog so special.