Low-Impact Exercise for Dogs with Hip Dysplasia: Building Strength Without Pain

One of the most common misconceptions about hip dysplasia is that affected dogs should avoid exercise entirely. In reality, appropriate exercise is one of the most important components of managing this condition. The key is finding the right balance—activities that maintain muscle strength and joint mobility without causing pain or further joint damage. Low-impact exercises provide exactly this balance, allowing dogs with hip dysplasia to stay active, healthy, and comfortable.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best low-impact exercise options for dogs with hip dysplasia, explain how to structure safe exercise routines, and help you recognize when you're doing too much or too little. Whether your dog has just been diagnosed or you're looking to optimize an existing exercise program, you'll find practical, evidence-based strategies to keep your dog moving safely.

Why Exercise Matters for Hip Dysplasia

Exercise plays multiple critical roles in managing hip dysplasia. Strong muscles surrounding the hip joint provide essential support, compensating for joint instability and reducing stress on damaged cartilage. When muscles are weak, the joint itself must bear more weight and stress, accelerating deterioration and increasing pain. Regular, appropriate exercise maintains this protective muscle mass, essentially creating a natural support system for compromised joints.

Beyond muscle maintenance, exercise helps control weight—a crucial factor in hip dysplasia management. Every excess pound your dog carries places additional stress on their hip joints. Studies have shown that even modest weight loss in overweight dogs significantly improves mobility and reduces pain. Exercise also promotes circulation, which delivers nutrients to joint tissues and helps remove inflammatory waste products, supporting overall joint health.

Movement itself is medicine for arthritic joints. Gentle exercise helps maintain joint flexibility and range of motion, preventing the stiffness that develops with inactivity. Regular activity also stimulates the production of synovial fluid, the natural lubricant that cushions joints during movement. Perhaps most importantly, exercise improves your dog's overall quality of life, maintaining their independence, preventing depression associated with chronic pain and limitation, and preserving the activities they enjoy.

However, not all exercise is created equal. High-impact activities like jumping, running on hard surfaces, or rough play can actually worsen hip dysplasia by overloading damaged joints. The solution is low-impact exercise—activities that provide all the benefits of movement while minimizing stress on the hips. These exercises allow your dog to build and maintain strength without the pain and joint damage associated with more vigorous activities.

Swimming and Hydrotherapy: The Gold Standard

Why Water Exercise is Ideal

Swimming and hydrotherapy are widely considered the best exercises for dogs with hip dysplasia, and for good reason. Water's buoyancy supports your dog's body weight, dramatically reducing the load on joints—in chest-deep water, a dog carries only about 40% of their normal weight, and in neck-deep water, only about 10%. This allows for extended exercise sessions that build strength and endurance without the joint stress that would occur during land-based activities of similar duration.

Water exercise provides resistance in all directions, creating an excellent full-body workout that strengthens all major muscle groups, not just those around the hips. This resistance is gentle and proportional to the effort your dog exerts—they can't "overdo it" in the same way they might on land. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure of water reduces swelling and inflammation in joints, providing natural pain relief and improved circulation.

Getting Started with Swimming

If your dog isn't already comfortable in water, introduce swimming gradually. Start in shallow water where your dog can touch bottom, perhaps using a gently sloping beach or pool entry ramp. Use high-value treats and plenty of encouragement to create positive associations with water. A canine life jacket is an excellent investment, providing buoyancy that makes swimming easier and safer while giving you a handle to support or guide your dog.

Begin with short sessions—just 5-10 minutes initially—and gradually increase duration as your dog builds stamina. Most dogs with hip dysplasia can work up to 15-30 minute swimming sessions several times per week. Watch for signs of fatigue such as slowing down, struggling to keep their head up, or trying to exit the water, and end the session before your dog becomes overtired.

Temperature matters significantly. Water that's too cold can cause muscle stiffness and discomfort, while overly warm water may lead to overheating. Ideal water temperature for therapeutic swimming is between 80-90°F (27-32°C). Many rehabilitation facilities maintain heated pools specifically for this reason. If using outdoor bodies of water, avoid swimming during very cold weather, and always dry your dog thoroughly afterward to prevent chilling.

Underwater Treadmill Therapy

Underwater treadmills, available at many veterinary rehabilitation centers, offer controlled hydrotherapy with adjustable water depth and treadmill speed. This equipment allows therapists to precisely target specific muscle groups and gradually increase challenge as your dog improves. The controlled environment ensures proper form and prevents the potentially awkward movements that can occur during free swimming. Many dogs who are anxious about open water do much better on an underwater treadmill, where they can maintain footing while still benefiting from water's buoyancy and resistance. If available in your area, underwater treadmill therapy is an excellent option worth considering.

Controlled Leash Walking: Daily Foundation Exercise

While swimming provides exceptional benefits, it's not always practical for daily exercise. Controlled leash walking offers an accessible alternative that most dogs and owners can incorporate into their routine. The key word is "controlled"—structured walks on flat surfaces at a comfortable pace, not the variable-intensity outings that many dogs experience at dog parks or during off-leash time.

Walking Surface Selection

Surface selection dramatically impacts joint stress during walking. Grass, dirt trails, and sand provide cushioning that reduces impact forces on joints compared to concrete or asphalt. Grass is generally the best option—firm enough to provide stable footing but soft enough to absorb shock. Avoid uneven terrain, steep hills, and areas with obstacles like rocks or roots that could cause awkward movements or falls.

Beach sand presents an interesting case. While soft sand provides excellent cushioning, it's also unstable and requires significant muscle effort to walk through, which can actually increase joint stress. If you walk on beach sand, stick to firm, wet sand near the water's edge, which offers a good balance of cushioning and stability. Avoid deep, soft sand that makes your dog work much harder to move.

Structuring Walking Sessions

For dogs with hip dysplasia, multiple short walks are better than single long outings. Three 15-minute walks spread throughout the day provide exercise benefits without the accumulated joint stress of one 45-minute walk. This approach also helps maintain mobility throughout the day—dogs with arthritis often stiffen up during long periods of inactivity, and brief walking sessions help prevent this stiffness.

Maintain a steady, moderate pace. Don't let your dog pull ahead, stop and start repeatedly, or lunge after squirrels or other distractions. Use a front-clip harness or head halter if needed to maintain control without jerking on the leash. The goal is smooth, rhythmic movement at a pace that allows your dog to move comfortably without panting heavily or showing signs of discomfort.

Watch for fatigue signals during walks. If your dog starts lagging behind, sits down, or shows changes in gait such as limping or bunny-hopping, end the walk even if you haven't reached your planned distance. Similarly, increased stiffness or soreness after walks indicates you may be doing too much. It's better to err on the side of caution—you can always gradually increase duration as your dog's fitness improves.

Weather Considerations

Cold weather often exacerbates arthritis pain and stiffness. During winter months, warm your dog up with gentle indoor movement before heading outside, keep walks shorter, and consider using a dog coat to maintain body temperature. Avoid walking on icy surfaces where slipping could cause injury. Conversely, during hot weather, walk during cooler times of day (early morning or evening) and watch for signs of overheating. Hot pavement can burn paws and increase body temperature, making exercise more difficult. Always bring water on longer walks, regardless of weather.

Passive Range of Motion Exercises

Passive range of motion (PROM) exercises involve gently moving your dog's joints through their natural range without your dog actively contracting their muscles. These exercises help maintain joint flexibility, prevent stiffness, improve circulation, and can provide pain relief by stimulating the production of natural joint lubrication.

How to Perform Hip PROM

Position your dog lying on their side on a comfortable surface. Support the thigh just above the knee with one hand while placing your other hand on the lower leg. Slowly and gently flex the hip joint by bringing the knee toward the abdomen, then extend the hip by moving the leg backward. Move through the joint's comfortable range—never force movement or push into pain.

Perform 10-15 repetitions per joint, twice daily. Move slowly and smoothly—each flexion and extension should take 3-5 seconds. Talk soothingly to your dog and stop immediately if they show signs of discomfort such as tensing muscles, vocalizing, or trying to pull away. Many dogs find these exercises relaxing and even fall asleep during sessions, which is perfectly fine and indicates they're comfortable.

You can also perform circular motions, gently rotating the leg in small circles that move the hip through multiple planes of motion. Again, work within comfortable ranges and stop if your dog resists. These exercises are particularly beneficial after periods of rest or sleep when joints tend to stiffen.

Best Times for PROM

Ideal times for PROM exercises include in the morning before your dog rises (when joints are typically stiffest), after rest periods throughout the day, before exercise sessions as a warm-up, and in the evening as part of a relaxing bedtime routine. Many owners find that incorporating PROM into daily grooming or petting sessions makes it easier to maintain consistency. The key is establishing a routine so these exercises become a regular part of your dog's care.

Additional Therapeutic Activities

Sit-to-Stand Exercises

Controlled sit-to-stand transitions strengthen the muscles around the hip and stifle (knee) joints. These muscles are crucial for supporting dysplastic hips. Have your dog sit, then encourage them to stand using a treat or toy lure held at nose level. Lower the treat to bring them back to a sitting position. Perform 5-10 repetitions, 2-3 times daily.

Focus on controlled, slow movements rather than quick transitions. Avoid having your dog "pop" up rapidly from sitting, as this can stress the joints. If your dog struggles to stand from a sit, consider whether the surface is too slippery or if pain is limiting them—address these issues before continuing the exercises. Some dogs benefit from performing these exercises on a slight incline with their hind legs higher than their front, which makes standing easier and builds strength gradually.

Balance and Proprioception Work

Balance exercises improve proprioception (body awareness) and strengthen stabilizing muscles around joints. Simple activities include having your dog stand with their front paws on a slightly elevated surface (like a low step or board) for 10-30 seconds at a time, or having them place just their hind feet on an elevated surface. As your dog improves, you can progress to unstable surfaces like balance discs or wobble boards, though always prioritize safety and stop if your dog seems anxious or struggles to maintain balance.

Weight-shifting exercises also improve balance and strength. Have your dog stand squarely, then gently encourage them to shift their weight by moving a treat slowly from side to side at shoulder height. This causes subtle weight redistribution that engages core and leg muscles. You can also try the "three-legged" exercise: have your dog stand and gently lift one front leg for 5-10 seconds, forcing them to redistribute weight to the other three legs. This strengthens the muscles supporting the hips and improves stability.

Cavaletti Exercises

Cavaletti exercises involve walking over a series of low obstacles (such as poles or pool noodles) placed at regular intervals. These exercises improve gait quality, increase range of motion, and strengthen hip flexors and extensors. Start with obstacles set very low (1-2 inches high) and spaced according to your dog's natural stride length. Have your dog walk slowly over the obstacles, encouraging deliberate, controlled movements. This activity requires focus and precise foot placement, which engages muscles and improves coordination without high-impact stress on joints. Perform 3-5 passes over the cavaletti setup, 2-3 times per week.

Creating a Personalized Exercise Plan

Assessing Your Dog's Starting Point

Before beginning any exercise program, honestly assess your dog's current fitness level and limitations. Can they walk comfortably for 10 minutes? Do they show pain when standing from rest? How quickly do they fatigue? This baseline assessment helps you set appropriate starting points and measure progress over time.

Consider working with a certified canine rehabilitation therapist (CCRT or CCRP) to develop an individualized program. These professionals can assess your dog's specific strengths and weaknesses, demonstrate proper exercise techniques, and provide a structured progression plan. Many veterinary hospitals and specialty practices now offer rehabilitation services.

Sample Weekly Exercise Schedule

A balanced weekly routine might include: Daily morning PROM exercises (5-10 minutes), three short leash walks per day (15-20 minutes each), swimming or underwater treadmill sessions 2-3 times weekly (15-30 minutes), daily sit-to-stand exercises (5 minutes), and balance/proprioception work 3-4 times weekly (5-10 minutes). This schedule provides consistent activity while allowing adequate rest and incorporating variety to maintain both physical and mental engagement.

Remember that this is just a template—your dog's program should be customized based on their individual needs, capabilities, and response to exercise. Some dogs may need more rest days, while others may tolerate more frequent activity. The key is consistency, gradual progression, and careful monitoring for signs that you're doing too much or too little.

Progression and Adaptation

As your dog builds strength and endurance, gradually increase exercise intensity. However, progress slowly—rushing advancement often leads to setbacks. A good rule is the 10% rule: don't increase exercise duration or intensity by more than 10% per week. If you're currently doing 15-minute walks, increase to 16-17 minutes the following week, not 20 minutes.

Be prepared to adjust the program based on your dog's response. If you notice increased stiffness, lameness, or reluctance to exercise, scale back to the previous level and consult your veterinarian. Some fluctuation in symptoms is normal, especially with weather changes, but persistent worsening indicates the program needs modification. Remember that hip dysplasia is typically progressive, so what works at age three may need adjustment at age eight. Regular reassessment and program updates help ensure your dog continues to benefit from exercise throughout their life.

When to Rest and When to Push Through

One of the most challenging aspects of managing hip dysplasia through exercise is knowing when to rest and when to encourage activity. Dogs with chronic pain often show some reluctance to exercise initially, but they typically "warm up" and move more freely after a few minutes of gentle activity. This warm-up period is normal and doesn't necessarily indicate you should stop exercising.

However, certain signs indicate you should rest rather than push through. These include obvious lameness that doesn't improve with gentle warm-up, vocalization of pain during movement, refusal to bear weight on a leg, visible swelling around joints, and reluctance to move that persists despite encouragement. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, stop exercising and consult your veterinarian—these may indicate an acute injury or pain flare that requires medical attention.

After an intense exercise session or on particularly painful days, allow adequate rest—this might mean reducing or skipping exercise for a day or two while maintaining gentle PROM exercises. Rest is not the same as complete inactivity; even on rest days, brief bathroom trips and casual house movement are appropriate. The goal is avoiding the specific exercises that might stress already-inflamed joints while maintaining basic movement and circulation.

Many veterinarians recommend the "two-hour rule": increased stiffness or pain that resolves within two hours after exercise is generally acceptable and indicates appropriate workout intensity. Symptoms lasting longer than two hours or persisting into the next day suggest you've done too much and should reduce intensity or duration next time. Keep a simple exercise journal noting duration, type of activity, and your dog's response to help identify patterns and optimal exercise levels.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Exercise is not just beneficial for dogs with hip dysplasia—it's essential. The right exercise program maintains muscle strength, controls weight, preserves joint mobility, and significantly improves quality of life. While it may seem counterintuitive to exercise a painful joint, the alternative—inactivity—leads to rapid muscle loss, weight gain, joint stiffness, and accelerated disease progression.

Start slowly, be consistent, and pay attention to your dog's signals. Work with your veterinarian or a rehabilitation specialist to develop an appropriate program for your dog's specific situation. Remember that what works today may need adjustment tomorrow as your dog ages or their condition changes. With patience, observation, and commitment to a well-designed low-impact exercise program, you can help your dog maintain mobility, manage pain, and enjoy an active life despite hip dysplasia.