HOW TO PREVENT DOG INJURIES FROM EXCESSIVE EXERCISE

There are numerous positives to spending extra time with your dog, but sometimes less is more beneficial when it comes to their injury prevention during exercise.

Pet Insurance Australia’s Nadia Crighton said they had noticed a sharp increase in cruciate ligament conditions throughout 2020 and cited the rise to unsuspecting pet owners pounding the pavement with their pooches and extreme play sessions at home.

She said excessive exercise could increase pressure on ligaments/tendons and bones, possibly leading to damage, ruptures and fractures.

“It’s important that pet owners do not over-exercise their dogs and take note if their pet seems stiff or is showing any signs of lameness,” Crighton said.

“Play is incredibly important to the human/dog bond, but owners do need to take care with older pets, large pets and puppies.

“Choosing a game that doesn’t encourage too much leaping is recommended to prevent ligament and tendon injuries.”

She said although exercising your pet was vital for good health and wellbeing, it was a good idea to speak to your vet about exactly how much exercise your dog needed regarding their breed, size, and personality.

“Some breeds are built to run and play, while others are not,” Crighton said.

RSPCA WA advised that all dogs needed daily exercise that incorporated both physical effort and mental stimulation.

Exercise has a whole range of health benefits, and a healthy dog is a happy dog.

RSPCA WA’S EXERCISE EXPERTISE

We advise against any ‘forced’ exercise, such as having your dog run alongside your bike or overly fast or long walks, as this can lead to overexertion or injury.

Instead, allow your pooch to run freely in a dog park off-leash, as this enables them to regulate the duration and intensity of the running themselves.

If your dog can’t be off-lead in public areas, spend some time in the backyard throwing safe toys or balls to encourage them to run around and burn off any extra energy. Alternatively, use a long leash or rope, so they can run freely while still under your control.

Dogs should not be exercised immediately before or after eating as this can predispose to bloating, which can be fatal particularly in large or deep-chested dogs.

PUPPY PLAY

Owners should introduce their puppies to exercise gradually. Start by taking your puppy for short walks on the lead. Puppies can tire very easily, so if they lose momentum, sit down or lie down, let them have a rest or carry them for a while and then head home.

Owners should limit ball throwing and catching for puppies. Even if it looks like they can catch all day, they can easily injure themselves by overdoing it or landing awkwardly.

It’s important that young growing puppies are not overexerted as this can cause long-term musculoskeletal problems.

SENIOR STYLE

Older dogs still need regular exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. Short, frequent walks are a good option, as your elderly pet will likely tire easily.

Toys and puzzle feeders can also help keep your older pooch entertained.

If you notice your dog is more tired than usual, arrange a check-up with your vet to rule out any underlying medical issues.