Low-Impact Exercises for Dogs

Dogs need exercise and mental stimulation every day. Though, sometimes, an injury or chronic pain limits a dog’s activity level—almost grinding it to a halt. That’s when low-impact exercise for dogs is hugely beneficial. Below are several great exercise ideas for dogs!

1. Walking

Slow strolls are an excellent form of a low-impact dog exercise. Remember, walks should be nice and quiet until your dog heals or starts feeling better. Start with a 4 to 6-foot leash—keep retractable leashes at home—to control how fast your dog walks.

You should, of course, provide your dog plenty of opportunities to stop and sniff during walks. Sniff stops provide mental stimulation for your dog, but also provides a short break during walks, which may be needed. In the beginning, keep walks under 10 minutes. The following week, walk for 12 minutes and increase slowly. If, at any time, your dog starts limping or suffers from pain, stop walks immediately and consult your veterinarian again.

RELATED: Walking Two Dogs at Once Tips

2. Underwater Treadmill

Seriously, if I could install an underwater treadmill in my home, I would’ve done it yesterday! Underwater treadmills are filled with a predetermined amount of water based on a dog’s height and exercise needs. By adding water during walks, it not only adds a bit of resistance, but buoyancy as well.

Water buoyancy allows the dog’s body to float, yet still move underwater, which relieves pressure from joints and ligaments. Also, warm circulating water provides additional pain control.

Ask your veterinarian to refer you to a canine physical therapist because he or she will have access to underwater treadmills. Check out a few hydrotherapy tips, so your dog learns to love it! Yes, I’m still trying to figure out how to install one at home. 🙂

3. Swimming, If Your Dog Enjoys It

We all know swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise, but there are a few risks that come with it too. Swimming is a great choice for dogs that already love swimming. If your dog hates swimming, he will likely further injure himself struggling to get out of the water.

Think about it this way: If someone throws you into a pool, and you hate it, you swim for your life. Panicking in water causes overuse of muscles, ligaments and joints, which you’re trying to protect from further injury. Life vests won’t prevent your dog from freaking out in the pool either, unfortunately.

If your dog hates swimming, try walking your dog along the shallow end of a pond or lake. This provides resistance, yet is low-impact. Again, your dog must enjoy standing and walking in water for it to work. 🙂

4. Nose Work

I’m completely obsessed with Nose Work! Many years ago, I was introduced to the sport of Nose Work and I haven’t looked back. Not only is it a super fun activity for dogs, but they will blow your mind with their sniffing skills. Additionally, it’s a low-impact exercise for dogs too.

RELATED: Barn Hunt: The Nose Sport Your Dog Needs to Try

How to Set Up the Game

There are several elements of Nose Work, but I’m obsessed with the very beginning stages. At first, it’s important to teach dogs how to find hidden food in boxes. You’ll need 5-6 small and medium-sized boxes, super yummy treats, and your dog. Hide food in one box and set it down among the other boxes. Your dog will walk over and sniff around to find the hidden treats. This dog game never gets old for your dog, and it keeps his body moving and his mind sharp.

Remember, have fun and choose a low-impact exercise your dog loves!