Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for any dog. Swimming strengthens the dogs muscles and joints without causing any stress to the joints, and can therefore be a part of a rehabilitation programme after back or leg operations. The water has a lifting effect that relieves and gives a careful exercise for the muscles and joints.

As well as for dogs in rehabilitation, swimming is excellent exercise for healthy dogs. Through swimming dogs get in better shape and strengthen their muscles without wear and tear that can occur through the normal exercise routines.

Healthy dogs

Swimming is a good way to prevent injuries and a fun way to get a varied workout for your dog. After only a short period of time you will start to see the improvement in your dogs physical well-being. You will also get a happier dog.

Rehabilitation after operations and injuries

Swimming is a non evasive form of exercise. What is meant by this is that the joints and muscles aren’t exposed to excessive strain. Swimming can be used as a part of a dogs rehabilitation after an operation or injury in order to regain maximum amount of strengthen in the least amount of time. By the use of hydrotherapy the bones are not introduced to a strenuous exercise routine, but a gentle way of exercising. When in water the dog is in a sort of weightless state, along with having to use his muscles. The period of rehabilitation is reduced by up to 6 months. In order to get the dog to use the necessary muscles it is important that he swims in circles and makes turns in both directions.

Disorders that could benefit from swimming

The pictures have been taken in AquaDogs lovely facilities in Bergen