How much exercise does my aging dog need if she's slowing down?

That's a good question. What I find is as long as Bailey wants to go and isn't sore or lame afterwards then let him go. I do recommend limiting jumping and severe rough housing with other dogs as those things are more likely to promote an injury. Keeping senior dogs fit and lean reduces the development and pain of arthritis. When they have strong muscles they support the joints and activity keeps the joints lubricated. Please listen to Bailey and as he ages he will not want to go as long and as far. I still want you to keep him active but don't push him, let him decide on his activity level. Having a day of rest between strenuous days is also helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Bailey.

Yes keep up with daily moderate exercise. As Lucy ages the length of the walks and exercise may decrease but should still be done at least twice daily. Many people stop exercising their dogs as they age. This results in muscle loss, and increased joint instability causing pain and arthritis. When you maintain the muscle mass it helps support the joints and keeps the tendons and ligaments strong. Dogs with arthritis actually have less discomfort when they are up and moving. So keep up the regular exercise and listen to Lucy and don’t push her when she’s had enough. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Lucy.

She is likely a very chilled dog who is more used to interacting in a calm manner with humans. If she doesnt want to play i would just let her do her own thing. She will probably appreciate a bit of fuss from you though.

Given that this is a change to his behavior a quick check up to rule out underlying medical causes such as heart disease or early arthritis would be recommended. If all clear then limiting the exercise to 50-60% of the current time and reducing the intensity by throwing them less far should keep him interested and excited without tiring him completely

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. If you feel that Bailey has lost energy and is not as playful as she used to be, I would recommend having her checked out by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. In regards to exercise, anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours per day is sufficient for exercise for most dogs. If there are other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, discomfort, inappetance or decreased appetite, etc. then there may be something more serious going on. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

I would exercise her at her pace. If she appears painful from her arthritis, then cut the walk short. I think any exercise she gets is great, and it's awesome you take her for three walks a day. I would keep up the good work!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bernie. She sounds very sore. I would give her some time to rest. Then only walk her as far as she can handle. Fresh air and being outside is good for a dog's well being, however the walk needs to be kept within her comfort level. If she shows signs of struggling, you have over done it. She may only be able to go for a minute or two to start. Follow her lead. I hope this information helps!