Is Your Dog Getting Too Much Exercise?

What’s better than a dog that loves to run, jump, and fetch dozens of frisbee throws? Not much, if you’re a pup parent. But dogs can overdo it if we aren’t careful. Joyous activity can slide into overexercising territory, and your pup’s body can show signs of exhaustion. 

Below, the team at Bowman Veterinary Hospital will share the signs of overextension in dogs to help avoid long-term discomfort or injury. 

Signs of Overextension in Dogs

1. Sore Paw Pads

Paw pads are tough, but they’re far from invincible. One of the first areas to show signs of overexertion is your dog’s paw pads. Your pup might start limping, licking her paws, or refusing to walk. 

If the pads look raw, cracked, or are bleeding, it’s time to take your pet to the vet for a checkup. Even if they look fine to your eye, give your pet a day to rest and relax if she’s been favoring her paw pads after a day of activity. 

The Veterinarian’s Tip: Check your pet’s paws for tenderness or signs of wear and tear after any outdoor activity. Add a moisturizing balm, like Blissful Paw Butter, to help them heal—and help prevent injury in the first place.

2. Sore Muscles and Stiff Joints

Is your pet limping after a day spent hiking in the woods or chasing tennis balls? Whether your pet is young or old, sore joints and muscles can follow any period of intense activity. 

If your pet struggles to walk normally, hesitates to jump, or struggles to get up after resting, he might be feeling the burn after too much fun. 

The Veterinarian’s Tip: Space out activities so your pooch gets plenty of recovery time—at least 3-5 days—after intense play. Joint supplements or dog massages (they’re real, trust us!) can also help.

3. Heat Exhaustion

In warm weather, heat exhaustion can quickly sneak up and take over—especially if your pawsome pal is running or playing hard without breaks. 

Excessive panting, drooling, unusual fatigue, and vomiting are serious red flags of overexertion. Contact your veterinarian if you notice these symptoms of heat exhaustion in your dog. 

While any dog can get heat exhaustion, short-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs are at a higher risk than most. 

The Veterinarian’s Tip: Always bring plenty of fresh water for your pup to drink during exciting daily activities. Avoid staying out in the midday heat—or opt for shady trails if you must go out during the hottest part of the day. Even better? Hike with your dog in the early morning or late evening for the coolest exercise hours. 

Tailoring Your Dog’s Exercise Routine

Every dog needs exercise to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The right type and amount of activity for your dog depends on several key factors: their breed, age, current health, and medical history.

For instance, breeds like Labrador Retrievers are naturally built for vigorous, heavy exercise, while a French Bulldog is not. Pushing a low-energy breed too hard can cause more harm than good.

When planning your dog’s activities, remember that moderation is key. The intensity of the exercise is often more important than the duration. A brisk walk on a leash, for example, is a fantastic way to get your dog moving without overexerting them. More strenuous activities like running, jumping, or intense play should be approached with caution, especially if your dog is older or has health concerns.

Always pay attention to your dog’s cues and speak with your vet if you’re unsure about the best exercise plan for your furry friend.

Knowing When to Rest

Resting after intense activities is just as important as getting enough exercise. Dogs often push right through discomfort because they’re excited to keep up with all the fun. That’s why it’s on us, their caregivers, to set the limits. 

If you feel your dog has had too much exercise and needs a visit to the vet, don’t hesitate to reach out to the caring team at Bowman Veterinary Hospital. Call us at (530) 823-6306 to set up an appointment!