Dogs typically reach the senior stage of life between 8 and 11 years. If your canine is at this point, you may still have many years before you must consider matters such as pet cremation and animal burial services. However, you will need to make some changes to your companion’s lifestyle to ensure they stay in good shape—especially when it comes to exercise. To help you maximize your pet’s wellness, here’s a brief guide on how to exercise senior dogs.

A Guide to Older Dogs and Fitness

Why Is Physical Activity Important for Older Canines?

Although you may notice that your dog’s speed and endurance have declined, exercise remains a vital part of their health. Regular activity, for instance, can help keep joints strong and flexible to stave off arthritis—a common condition among senior canines. Additionally, fitness helps these animals build muscle and burn calories so that they can stay healthy and avoid obesity.

Exercise also helps improve an animal’s blood circulation, which, in turn, helps keep their heart and other organs healthy. Also, being outside and spending time with you can be great for your aging dog’s mind, allowing them to avoid depression and other mental health concerns.

How Should You Adjust Exercise for an Aging Dog?

An older dog won’t need as much exercise as they did when they were younger. For example, walks will likely need to be shortened to help prevent stiffness and overexertion. You can also keep their paws and joints in good condition by walking on soft grass or dirt as opposed to hard pavement.

If you’re going outside for some activity, pay attention to the temperature, as older canines are more sensitive to heat and cold. In the summer, for instance, you should walk your dog in the morning to minimize dehydration and heatstroke risks. When it’s winter, consider covering your dog’s feet so that they can avoid frostbite.

What Are Some Good Activities for Senior Dogs?

Ultimately, the right level of fitness for your pet will depend on their overall health and what your veterinarian recommends. Apart from walking, several fun activities are ideal for senior dogs. Swimming in a heated animal pool, for instance, can help aging canines stay active without aggravating their arthritic joints. You might also take them to a dog park where they can roam around and socialize at their own pace.

As your dog reaches their golden years, you might start planning how you want to honor their life after they pass. When this happens, Char Mac Pet Cremation is here to provide the heartfelt resources you need to cherish your companion’s memory. Offering affordable pet cremation services in Cincinnati, OH, since 1973, this provider is recognized for simplifying the process and delivering solutions to personalize the experience—including custom engraved urns. To learn more about their aftercare assistance, visit this animal cremation service online or call a compassionate team member at (513) 851-5791.