User Question: My senior dog has weak hind legs and refuses to walk. What else can I do to help it exercise?
Editor: First, take it to a veterinarian for a check-up, then use low-impact exercises to help it get moving.


When my big dog was 12 years old, it also had weak hind legs and didn’t like to walk. I quickly took it to the hospital for an examination, and it turned out to be caused by joint degeneration. The vet first prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. Data also shows that such symptoms in senior dogs are mostly due to arthritis or nerve problems — don’t take it as normal aging. It needs to be diagnosed by a veterinarian through X-rays or other examinations; otherwise, improper exercise will easily make the injury worse. If your dog’s condition suddenly deteriorates or it can’t stand at all, seek medical attention immediately.
First, modify the home environment: lay carpets to prevent slipping, use ramps to help it get on and off the sofa or bed, and control its weight to avoid putting pressure on the joints. Start with passive exercises: let it lie on its side, gently flex and extend its hind legs several times a day, 10 times each time, to help keep the muscles flexible. I tried this with my dog, and it felt more comfortable after a week. When going out, take short-distance slow walks, little and often, and don’t make sharp turns.
If you want to strengthen its exercise, take it to a professional place for hydrotherapy or use an underwater treadmill. The buoyancy protects the legs while training endurance, which is very suitable. Ask your veterinarian if you need to add glucosamine to protect the joints. Persisting in this can delay degeneration. The key is to observe your dog’s reaction — stop if it’s uncomfortable, and accompany it patiently.