My Dog is Old - Do I Need to Stop Taking Them on Walks?
Usually, no—in fact, regular walks are often especially valuable as dogs get older.
For a senior dog, the goal generally shifts from mainly exercise to movement for mobility, strength, weight control, mental stimulation, and quality of life.
A few things change as they age:
- Shorter, more frequent walks may be better than one long walk.
- Let the dog set the pace rather than trying to maintain the pace they had when younger.
- Give them time to stop and sniff. For an older dog, the mental stimulation is part of the benefit.
- Watch for signs that you've gone too far: lagging behind, excessive panting, limping, repeatedly stopping, or noticeably greater stiffness afterward.
- Dogs with arthritis often benefit from consistent moderate activity. Too little movement can contribute to stiffness and loss of muscle, while too much can aggravate painful joints.
- Weather matters. Older dogs may tolerate heat and cold less well than they once did. And as with humans, changes in the weather often contribute to a dog's aching joints.
The big exception would be a dog with a medical problem where the veterinarian has specifically restricted exercise—significant heart or respiratory disease, an injury, severe arthritis, neurological problems, etc.
What if your dog just doesn’t want to go anymore?
Pay attention. If a dog who once enjoyed walks suddenly seems reluctant to go, repeatedly turns toward home, or simply doesn’t seem interested, don’t assume they’re just being stubborn or getting old. Pain, arthritis, fatigue, or another health issue could be making walks uncomfortable. A change like this is worth discussing with your veterinarian. And sometimes, as dogs get older, it’s okay to let them decide that today’s “walk” is just a slow trip down the driveway, a few minutes sniffing around the yard, or no walk at all.
“Should You Still Walk Your Dog as They Get Older?”
And the answer is reassuring: Yes, in most cases—but the walk should grow older along with the dog.