At-Home Dog Stretches & Exercises | Alpha Animal Rehabilitation
At-Home Stretches and Fitness Exercises You Can Do with Your Dog
Keeping your dog fit and mobile doesn’t always require a treadmill or hydrotherapy tank. In fact, there are plenty of simple, low-impact stretches and exercises you can do right at home to support your dog’s flexibility, strength, and overall health. At Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness, we believe movement is medicine—and that includes everyday play and bonding moments that keep your dog thriving.
Whether your pup is recovering from injury or just needs a more active routine, these at-home stretches and exercises can help promote long-term mobility and wellness.
1. The Cookie Stretch (Neck & Spine Mobility)
This easy stretch improves your dog’s cervical spine mobility and overall flexibility.
How to do it: Have your dog stand or lie down comfortably. Hold a healthy treat near their nose, and slowly guide it toward their shoulder, then hip, then back between their front legs (under the chest). Let them follow the treat without stepping forward.
Reps: 3 times per side, daily.
Pro tip: Avoid jerky motions. Keep the movement slow and let your dog lead the pace.
2. Weight Shifts (Core & Balance)
Ideal for improving core strength and balance—especially helpful for senior dogs or those recovering from surgery.
How to do it: With your dog standing squarely on all fours, gently shift their weight by placing your hand on one hip and pushing slightly, encouraging them to balance. Alternate sides.
Reps: 5–10 shifts per session.
Pro tip: Always start on a non-slip surface like a yoga mat for safety.
3. Sit-to-Stand Repeats (Dog Squats!)
Just like human squats, this strengthens the hind limbs and glutes.
How to do it: Ask your dog to sit, then encourage them to stand using a treat. Repeat the cycle.
Reps: 5–10 reps, 1–2 times a day.
Pro tip: Keep sessions short and positive to avoid fatigue or frustration.
4. Paw Lifts (Proprioception Training)
Help your dog become more aware of their limbs, great for coordination and muscle tone.
How to do it: With your dog standing, gently lift one paw for 3–5 seconds, then lower it and move to the next paw.
Reps: 2–3 rounds daily.
Pro tip: Use soft praise and don’t force the movement. If they resist, try again later.
5. Cavaletti Rails (Obstacle Step-Overs)
Build muscle and coordination with this fun agility-style drill.
How to do it: Line up small objects (like pool noodles or broomsticks) spaced about 12 inches apart. Walk your dog over them slowly, encouraging high steps.
Reps: Walk 2–3 passes per session, a few times per week.
Pro tip: Adjust height and distance depending on your dog’s size and ability.
Before You Begin: Important Safety Tips
- Warm up first with a short walk or light play.
- Watch for signs of discomfort like limping, whining, or stiffness.
- Don’t overdo it. If your dog is new to exercise, start slow and build up gradually.
- Always consult a veterinarian—especially if your dog is recovering from an injury or has a chronic condition.
Make It a Routine—Your Dog Will Thank You
Just like humans, dogs benefit from consistent, gentle movement. Integrating these stretches and exercises into your dog’s routine can improve joint health, reduce pain, and even prevent future injuries. And best of all? It deepens the bond between you and your four-legged friend.
At Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness, we’re committed to helping dogs live longer, more comfortable lives. If you have concerns about your dog’s mobility or want a customized rehab or fitness plan, we’re here to help.
Ready to take your dog’s health to the next level? Schedule a consultation with Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness today and let our experts create a tailored mobility and fitness plan for your pup. Visit us at 975 Bloomfield Ave, Suite 1West Caldwell, NJ 07006 or call us at (908) 454-2273 to get started!
