How does my dog move?
When it comes to the well-being of our loyal four-legged friends, exercise is vital. But let's be honest - does your furry friend move in the right way? In this blog, we dive deeper into what healthy movement means for your dog and how you can ensure that your fluffy companion stays at his best, with tips from expert Patricia.
Healthy movement: what does that mean?
A dog that moves healthily shows even, smooth movement throughout his body. It is not only the way he moves his paws, but also how his head, neck, back and tail are balanced during activities, such as a walk or a playdate. His paws are firmly under his body, and his tail moves smoothly as he walks. In short, a picture of pure joy and vitality!
On the other hand, unhealthy movements in dogs can lead to stiffness, stiff limbs and awkward posture. Think of legs that are not positioned correctly under the body, such as bowlegs or knock-knees, and a tail that does not move in sync with the rest of the body. These are things to keep an eye on during your next walk!
Tips for promoting healthy exercise in your dog:
Patricia from Smiling Dogs, a qualified Education and Behaviour Coach and a qualified Body & Balance Instructor for dogs, is happy to give us some tips on how you can promote healthy exercise in your four-legged friend.
Sufficient but not excessive exercise:
Regular exercise is crucial for dogs, but it is important to adjust it according to your dog's age, size and condition to avoid overexertion. Puppies need short, frequent activities to encourage muscle development and coordination, while adult dogs benefit from moderate to intense activities, depending on their breed and energy level. Older dogs benefit from low-impact activities such as swimming or gentle walks to relieve stress on their joints. For small breeds, short and frequent activities are suitable, while larger breeds benefit more from longer and more intense exercise.
Dogs in good condition can handle varied and challenging activities, but for dogs in less good condition, it is important to build up slowly and consider physiotherapy if necessary. Adapt activities and avoid excessive exertion, especially on hard surfaces, and always give adequate rest between sessions. Watch all dogs for signs of overheating and introduce new activities gradually to avoid injury.
Healthy nutrition:
Nutrition plays a big role in your dog's overall well-being, including his exercise quality. Ensure a balanced diet that contains all the nutrients your furry friend needs.
A healthy anatomical build:
Pay attention to your dog's physique when choosing a companion. Purebred dogs often have specific anatomical features that can affect their movement.
Sufficient rest:
The rest needed after activities varies greatly depending on the dog's age and condition. Puppies need short, frequent activities followed by naps throughout the day, with rest periods every 30-60 minutes, depending on the intensity of the activity.
Adult dogs need a 1-2-hour rest period after every 1-2 hours of activity, where it is important to watch for signs of fatigue, such as panting or slower movement.
Older dogs benefit from shorter activities with frequent rest breaks, with a 1-2-hour rest period recommended after every 30-60 minutes of exercise. For dogs with special needs, it is important to adjust rest periods based on their individual health condition and needs.
Healthy inner body:
A healthy inner body often translates into a healthy appearance and smooth movements. Regular vet checks and appropriate preventive care are essential.
Healthy coat:
A shiny coat can be an indication of your dog's overall health. Pay attention to coat care and good hygiene.
Professional help as an option
More and more dog parents are becoming aware of the importance of physiotherapy and movement therapy for their four-legged friends. These therapies are no longer used exclusively after injuries but are increasingly employed preventively, regardless of the dog's age or activity level. Just as we exercise to stay fit, dogs also deserve attention for their physical well-being.
A physiotherapist or movement therapist can analyse your dog's movements, detect problems early and suggest treatments to improve mobility and reduce discomfort. For some dogs, regular sessions can be a valuable investment to improve quality of life and prevent injuries.
However, it's important to realise that professional therapy is an option, not a must. Not all dog parents have the resources or recognise the importance of providing this level of care. By paying close attention to your dog's movement, nutrition, rest, and overall health, you can also do a lot for their well-being. Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for you and your loyal companion.
So it is clear that healthy exercise is essential for the well-being of our beloved dogs. By paying attention to their exercise patterns, nutrition, rest and overall health, we can ensure that they live happy, active and fulfilled lives. So, let's strive together to provide the best care for our faithful companions!
In a nutshell
Unhealthy movements in dogs can lead to stiffness, stiff limbs and awkward posture. Think of legs that are not positioned correctly under the body, such as bowlegs or knock-knees, and a tail that does not move in sync with the rest of the body.
Adjust activity based on your dog's age, size and condition.
Experts are specifically trained to evaluate the musculoskeletal system of dogs, identify problems, and develop targeted treatment plans to improve mobility, reduce pain, and optimise overall functioning.