Keep on moving

It goes without saying that keeping your dog slim and fit will help to reduce extra stress on his joints. And, of course, once he has his bounce back, regular exercise will help to keep his joints supple, and keep his heart and lungs healthy too. Exercising with your dog really helps to build that dog and owner bond, as it’s a great way to show him you care.

The amount of exercise your dog needs obviously depends on his size. For example, a little Yorkshire Terrier won’t need the huge run that a Labrador would need. But whatever kind of dog you have, there’s no reason why you can’t incorporate more play into your walks, as it will help him stay healthy and agile. Ball throwing is a great example, but dogs also love playing with frisbees, as they’re great fun on land or in water. You could even try a game of tug of war with a piece of rope or simple game of fetch. Not only will it provide intellectual stimulation, but it’s great fun for both of you.

Finally, whenever you take your dog out, always remember to take water for him and, on hot summer days, aim to go out early morning or late evening when it’s cooler.