Dogs need daily exercise to stay happy, healthy, and calm. But providing them with this stimulation can be challenging when you have limited mobility, and can’t manage typical activities like running, hiking, or long walks.
If you’re trying to think of new ways to get your pup active that work with your abilities, here are a few fun, effective ways people with conditions that limit their ability to move can exercise their canine companions!
Get Techy With An Air Cannon
If you have limited movement in your arms, throwing a ball for fetch might cause pain or discomfort. Instead, why not use an air cannon? When they hear “air cannon”, most people think of the high-powered launchers used at stadiums to launch memorabilia like t-shirts and hot dogs.
But there are several types of air cannons out there, including short-range, soft-impact versions you can use to safely launch a ball across a yard for a game of fetch. All you have to do is press a button and the ball goes flying! It’s low effort for you, but high impact for your pup.
Use a Flirt Pole for High-Energy Play
A flirt pole looks like a giant cat toy, but it’s not just for cats—dogs think they’re great fun too! They’re basically a long stick with a rope and a lure attached to the end. You can hold the handle and move the lure along the ground or in the air while your dog chases it.
Because the pole is long, you can make your dog run in circles or jump without you taking a single step. It engages their natural prey drive and burns off energy quickly.
Set Up an Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Nose work engages a dog’s most powerful sense and burns serious energy. You can hide treats or favorite toys around a room while your dog waits. Once you finish hiding everything, give the release command and watch them go to work!
You can stay in one spot and encourage them as they sniff out their prizes. It turns mealtime into a game and keeps them entertained for quite a while.
Invest in Interactive Puzzle Toys
If you need a break but your dog still has energy to burn, puzzle toys save the day. These gadgets require your dog to solve a problem—like sliding a lever or rolling a ball—to get a treat.
They come in various difficulty levels, so you can start easy and work your way up. It keeps them occupied and mentally stimulated without requiring any physical effort from you.
Try a Treadmill
If you have a high-energy breed that needs to run, a treadmill could be the answer. With proper training and supervision, many dogs learn to love walking or running on a treadmill.
Start slow to get them used to the noise and movement. Once they feel comfortable, it provides a great cardiovascular workout regardless of the weather outside or your own physical limitations.
Getting Creative with Canine Fitness
These are some ways you can exercise your dog when you have limited mobility! These activities let you participate in your pet’s fitness, to make playtime more stimulating for them mentally and more enjoyable for you.
