Exercise is as important for our dogs as it is for us. While many pet owners may understand that puppies and healthy adult dogs need regular daily workouts, we must not forget that senior dogs will benefit from regular exercise as well. It’s very important for aging dogs to stay active.

Here are the key aspects of a great article from our friends at The Big Paw Blog with some tips on different activities we can do with our dogs to increase their exercise. They remind us not to forget that spending time exercising your dog can give you a healthy workout at the same time!

The article explains that dogs can adapt to strenuous exercise if they are allowed to train properly, just like humans. Exercise increases the capacity of their cardiovascular systems, keeps them at a healthy weight, and strengthens their bones and muscles. This is especially important for our FlexPet canine friends to avoid joint pain and osteoarthritis which can result from obesity.

Getting started:

• If your dog has not been receiving regular exercise, begin with just a few minutes each day and gradually lengthen the exercise period. Before beginning an exercise regimen, have your dog checked out by the vet to rule out any health problems, such as obesity, or heart and lung problems that could make exercise dangerous.

Behavioral benefits to exercising your dog:

• Like humans, their brains produce serotonin during and after exercise, which has a calming and relaxing influence. When they are cooped up all day, they may become restless and bored. Pent-up energy can result in undesirable behaviors such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking.

Weather can have an effect on your dog’s exercise regimen so here are some things to think about during the summer months:

• Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat of the day and when the humidity is high. Dogs can suffer from heat exhaustion as easily as their humans can.

• It’s better to exercise in the early morning or evening, when the temperature is below 80 degrees and the humidity is below 30%.

• Dogs with a heavy coat, obesity, or lung or heart problems, will feel the effects of the humidity sooner than healthy or shorthaired dogs.

• Be sure the dog has plenty of fresh water and a place to cool down if necessary.

Here are some concerns during the winter months:

• If the temperature drops below freezing, limit exercise unless your dog is used to cold weather.

• If road salt is used on icy roads in your area, be sure to wash and dry your dog’s paws when you return indoors; the salt can burn your pet’s paws, and if they lick it off, it can make them ill.

Older dogs who are suffering from joint disorders such as dysplasia or arthritis may not have any interest in running after a ball, or even be fit enough for a walk. In many cases, FlexPet can help alleviate that pain so they can get back to normal and kick up their exercise regimen. The primary component of FlexPet™ is CM8™ (cetyl myristoleate). Of all the ingredients in FlexPet, CM8™ is the most powerful. CM8™ functions in three different ways. First, it acts as a highly effective lubricant in the joints, muscles and other tissues, allowing them to move smoothly. Decrease or loss of morning stiffness is commonly noted shortly after commencing treatment. Next, CM8™ functions as an anti-inflammatory. Relief from swollen joints is often seen after the 4th or 5th week of treatment. Third, it is also an immune system modulator, which can be effectual against autoimmune diseases, such as arthritic conditions. CM8™ relieves joint pain at its source, reducing inflammation and irritation of the joints and tissues. This should allow your dog to run freely again within a short amount of time after starting FlexPet.

Here are some ways you can encourage activity in your older dog who suffers from joint pain.

• Swimming offers older dogs an excellent cardiovascular workout and strengthens their bones and muscles without the jarring impact of walking or running. If your dog is not used to swimming, don’t force him in. Coax him in gently and keep the first few sessions short.

• Running next to you: If you are a runner or cyclist, this is a great activity you can do with your dog. Some dogs enjoy running alongside their owners while jogging or bicycling. Dogs need to be properly leash-trained for this athletic effort. There are contraptions available to fasten the dog’s lead to your bicycle that have breakaway leashes for safety.

• Dog play parks: These are gaining in popularity. This is a park where dogs are allowed to run free and play. Your dog should be well-socialized toward strange people and other dogs before you take him to a dog park. He should have all his vaccinations, and be spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted romantic entanglements! Observe dog park etiquette, such as cleaning up after him (most parks supply bags for this purpose), and supervising his play at all times.

Dog owners will find that ensuring their dog has a regular daily exercise period will not only benefit your canine companion, but also have great advantages for the entire family!

Read the entire article on the Big Paw Blog, a blog for Big Paw Designs which features information about different breeds of dog and cats, provides pet tips and nutrition facts, showcases pet photos and more.