Physical therapy exercises for dogs

 

Our pups need regular activity to keep their joints comfortable and lubricated.

In this article, I’ll share several fun and effective exercises for most dogs! These will reduce joint stiffness and keep your pup moving - all while being enjoyable for both of you.

 

What is dog physical therapy?

But first, let’s define physical therapy—it’s the foundation for these exercises and tips.

Dog physical therapy focuses on improving mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. It includes:

 

✔️ Therapeutic exercises performed by canine rehabilitation professionals

 

✔️ Manual therapy (like acupuncture & massage) 

 

✔️ Hydrotherapy & electrotherapy 

Is physical therapy only useful for injured, senior or recovering dogs?

🚨 No! Even healthy dogs can benefit from these exercises.

These movements support joint and muscle health, relieve pain, and provide additional physical benefits—all without jeopardizing your dog’s condition. 

General tips on physical therapy exercises for dogs

1️⃣ 2 walks per day minimum

• Walking your pup at least twice daily for 10-15 minutes is essential.
  
• As your dog’s mobility decreases, slow down the pace.
  
• But don’t reduce the frequency! Keeping them active is key.

2️⃣ Water is your ally

Not just for drinking! 

 

Swimming and hydrotherapy reduce joint pressure while building muscle strength. If your dog enjoys swimming, encourage them—it’s great for joint stiffness relief!

3️⃣ Adapt to your dog's abilities

Planning low-intensity activities is a great way to keep pups active.

 

💡 Try this: Have your dog mindfully step over small obstacles—this helps mobilize all joints while improving coordination. 

The Sidewalk & Physiotherapy Exercise routine

The previous tips were just the warm-up - this is the foundation for keeping your dog mobile! 

 

Why is variety important? Keeping your dog engaged with different exercises stimulates their muscles and brain, especially in senior dogs. 

 

🎙️ Dr. Christine’s Experience

 

👩‍⚕️ Dr. Christine:
“Exactly! Along with daily walks, I added physiotherapy to my dog Pepsi’s osteoarthritis management.”

 

💡 Looking for simple at-home exercises to help your dog’s mobility? Try this Sidewalk Exercise!

 

While I recommend having a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner guide you through more complex exercises, incorporating some basic practices into your routine can already make a great difference.

Watch the demonstration video with my dog Rio.

Implement this simple exercise early and aim to do it once daily when you take your dog for a walk. While walking along the sidewalk, guide your dog up and down.

1️⃣ Go down from the sidewalk

Guide your dog down from the sidewalk so their front legs lower first while their hind legs remain elevated.

 

🚨 Not all dogs can do this easily—go slow and follow their pace.

1️⃣ Go back up

After a few steps, guide your dog back onto the sidewalk. Their front and rear legs will be at different levels, activating their joints.

 

🔁 Repeat this back-and-forth movement about a dozen times.

 

🐶 Fun Fact: Rio enjoyed the exercise so much that he did it alone after a few times.

 

Check out our YouTube video for a demonstration and more details. Give it a try! This simple exercise will bring your dog benefits!

 

While this exercise has a low risk of injury, it's always a good idea to consult your veterinarian to determine what is best for your dog's needs and health.

 

⚠️ Important:  When I did physiotherapy with Pepsi, despite being in vet school, I took a veterinary physical rehabilitation course before implementing it with him.

 

What can I give my dog to help with mobility?

Continuous use of Jope Hip & Joint Dog Chews will work with these recommendations to maintain your dog's fitness.

• With UC-II® Collagen, shown more effective than glucosamine

• Made by Vets

• Clean formula, 80% organic ingredients