My dog is slowing down. Is it hip dysplasia, how do I know for sure, and how do I treat it naturally?
Puppies grow up incredibly quickly, with most dog breeds reaching their full size within 8 to 18 months. Unfortunately, we’ve seen in our Fort Lauderdale clinic that this rapid development comes with an increased risk of certain diseases and injuries, including hip dysplasia —a degenerative condition that causes a dog’s hip joints to develop abnormally.
Hip dysplasia has serious symptoms including pain and mobility problems. Fortunately, it is possible to treat hip dysplasia in dogs naturally — even without visiting our Fort Lauderdale office! This blog post will explain the causes of hip dysplasia, how it is diagnosed, and the ways you can treat hip dysplasia in dogs naturally.
Is Swimming Good Exercise for Dogs?
Yes. Swimming gets your dog’s whole body moving and is a great cardio workout for them.
Exercise must be a part of everyone’s routine to stay healthy and prolong life.
Here are some other reasons why swimming is a great type of exercise for your pooch.
Swimming has no harsh impact on your dog’s body. It does not stress their joints and bones as much, and the recovery is easy.
This cardiovascular workout also strengthens your dog’s muscles. Notice how canine swimmers usually have lean and toned bodies!
If your dog is obese, taking them out for a swim is an exciting and weight-loss activity.
Some dog owners find it difficult to get their dogs to shred off some pounds without destroying their joints and bones.
Make sure to pair this with a proper diet to bring your pup to a healthier weight.
All forms of exercise provide mental stimulation, but swimming may do a better job because of the unique sensory experience your dog gets.
It will enrich them and prevent them from getting bored. Some dogs get destructive because of boredom. They bark, dig, and escape because they want some stimulation.
So, if your dog has behavioral issues, maybe they just need a good swim.
Find out how long a dog should swim for a good workout!
Is Swimming Good for Older Dogs?
Yes. Swimming is a great activity for older dogs, as long as you keep the sessions short and not overtaxing.
As mentioned, swimming is a low-impact exercise that gets your dog’s whole body moving. It’s exactly what senior dogs need.
Low-impact exercises are necessary for their weakening muscles and joints. It also prevents the loss of strength and improves their overall conditioning.
Senior dogs deserve relaxation and comfort. Let them go swimming to relieve their pain.
Some vets even recommend swimming as a form of physical therapy for senior dogs, especially those who have just undergone surgery.
Remember that not all breeds will enjoy swimming, especially if they are too old to do so.
Care for your senior dog to avoid signs of aging, such as weight changes, loss of mobility, and poor appetite.