But after a few years, the dog gets older and walks are more difficult for him. This is why it is important to adapt these outings to the dog's state of he alth.
Keep outputs
Faced with an elderly dog who has difficulty moving around, the temptation to reduce the number of outings is great. However, this is an error. Indeed, the dog must continue to take advantage of daily walks so as not to worsen his state of he alth. Reducing walking time increases the risk of overweight and muscle wasting, which will have significant consequences for the dog's joints and body.
Walks are also essential for the dog on the psychic level because they make him meet humans and other four-legged companions. The dog avoids loneliness and shares moments of complicity with his master. Age should not be an excuse for "non-activity" . The important thing is to continue to stimulate your dog but following a new rhythm.
Change ride times
With an older dog, walking times must be adapted. The best solution is to shorten the duration of the outings but increase their frequency. Thus, a one-hour walk can turn into two half-hour outings or three twenty-minute outings. On the one hand, it will avoid over-tiring the dog all at once. On the other hand, splitting the time out will help stimulate the dog multiple times throughout the day. If he shows signs of fatigue, you should stop for a few moments before continuing the walk.
During the summer, outings will preferably take place outside the hours of sunshine, and a shady place will be chosen to take a break. You should also remember to bring fresh water. Dogs should stay well hydrated, especially when they are older.
Adapt the places for walks
Depending on the he alth problems developed by the elderly dog, the usual places for walks will have to be changed. For a dog with joint pain, osteoarthritis or breathing difficulties, flat ground will be preferable. Steep paths, especially over long distances, are not recommended. For a dog with declining eyesight or who is deaf, an area without obstacles will be preferred. The walk must remain pleasant for the dog who must never feel this moment as something stressful or exhausting. If possible, outings will be far from the city. The dog will then be able to enjoy the peace and nature.
Invest in comfortable gear
When the elderly dog has a lot of difficulty walking, there are solutions to walk him. The purchase of a harness for the hindquarters can be useful to relieve the dog during walks. If the dog's rear axle is completely blocked, a mobile canis will support its hind limbs to allow it to regain satisfactory mobility.
For some time now, dog strollers have appeared. If this equipment can surprise, it can be very practical. Indeed, it allows you to walk the dog and let him enjoy the fresh air without making him walk. If the dog is too tired during the walk, just slide it into the stroller to continue the walk!
Walks are very important because they allow you to continue to stimulate an aging dog. However, over the years, the dog no longer has the same stamina.It is therefore necessary to adapt the walks and modify their duration and location if necessary. The walk must remain a real moment of pleasure for the dog.