What type of exercise is typically best for a senior dog with arthritis?

• A. High-intensity running
• B. Jumping on furniture
• C. Low-impact activities such as short daily walks
• D. Prolonged swimming with heavy resistance

Answer: (C)

Low-impact, consistent activity is ideal for a senior dog with arthritis. Gentle movement helps keep joints lubricated, maintains muscle support around joints, and aids in weight management, all while minimizing stress on painful or inflamed joints. Short daily walks fit this approach perfectly: they provide regular, controllable movement that can be adjusted to the dog's comfort level and pain signals, helping to reduce stiffness and improve mobility over time.

High-intensity running places a lot of pounding and rapid loading on joints, which can flare arthritis symptoms. Jumping on furniture involves sudden impacts and awkward joint angles that easily irritate arthritic hips, knees, or elbows. Prolonged swimming with heavy resistance might seem beneficial, but doing it for long durations with substantial resistance can overtax an arthritic dog, leading to fatigue and joint strain even though swimming is generally low-impact.